Highlights

• iOS 17.2 introduces Journal App and Spatial Video Recording features.
• macOS Sonoma 14.2 enhances security with iMessage Contact Key Verification.
• New Favourites Playlist in Apple Music debuts in iOS 17.2.
• macOS Sonoma 14.2 resolves transcript errors and improves Messages app functionality.

Apple’s iOS 17.2 RC (release candidate) has been revealed for developers by Apple. Alongside this, the company has also released macOS Sonoma 14.2 RC.

These updates are a precursor to the stable versions for both that Apple is expected to roll out early next year.

Here is a summary of the release notes for both, highlighting some key improvements.

Key Features of iOS 17.2 RC

• Journal App: A major highlight of iOS 17.2 is the introduction of the Journal app. First announced at WWDC, this app is designed for users to document both significant events and everyday moments. As per Apple, the app includes smart journaling suggestions, filtering options for easy access to entries, and scheduled reminders to maintain regular journaling habits.
• Spatial Video Recording: A feature tailored for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, Spatial Video recording is set to capture memories that can be displayed on the upcoming Apple Vision Pro.
• Memoji Updates: iOS 17.2 brings an update to Memoji, allowing users to customize their avatars with different body shapes.

• Favorites Playlist in Apple Music: This update includes a new favorites playlist in Apple Music, enhancing the music listening experience.
• Enhanced Weather and Messages Apps: The Weather app sees improvements with new information like precipitation amounts and wind map snapshots, while the Messages app introduces features like a catch-up arrow and sticker options.
• Action Button on iPhone 15 Pro Models: An exclusive feature for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, the Action Button now includes a translation option for quick phrase translations and conversations in different languages.
• Camera Enhancements: The update promises improved telephoto camera focusing speed for capturing distant objects on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
• PDF Autofill and More: Additional features like PDF autofill and various improvements across the system are also part of iOS 17.2.
• Although collaborative playlists in Apple Music were anticipated, they appear to be absent in this release.

Key Features of macOS Sonoma 14.2 RC

• iMessage Contact Key Verification: The macOS Sonoma 14.2 introduces iMessage Contact Key Verification. This feature uses Key Transparency to ensure that the iMessage key distribution service returns legitimate device keys, logged in a verifiable map. It enhances security by allowing users to confirm they are communicating with their intended contacts.
• Verification Notifications and Options: Users receive direct notifications in the Messages conversation transcript and Apple ID Settings about any validation errors. For additional security, users can compare a contact verification code in person, over FaceTime, or through another secure method. Adding a public key in a contact’s details enables iMessage Contact Key Verification for that specific contact.
• Compatibility Requirements: To use this feature, all devices on the user’s iCloud account must be updated to at least iOS 17.2 Beta, macOS 14.2 Beta, or watchOS 10.2 Beta. Users with devices on older OS versions need to sign out of iMessage on those devices to enable contact key verification.

Resolved Issues in macOS Sonoma 14.2 RC

• Transcript Error Resolution: A previously occurring error displaying a ‘Turned Off’ transcript intermittently has been fixed.
• Eligibility for Key Verification: An issue where users were mistakenly informed about their ineligibility to enable Contact Key Verification on certain upgraded devices has been corrected.
• Known Issue: The ‘Learn More’ links in iMessage do not currently link to Knowledge Base articles during the Beta phase.
• Messages App Enhancements: Unlocalized strings in the full-screen Map View of Group Messages have been rectified.
• ServiceManagement Security Updates: Modifications in the requirements for agents and daemons registered with SMAppService aim to prevent sandbox escapes, mandating that the target executable be sandboxed if the main app is sandboxed.

FAQs

What are the standout features in Apple’s iOS 17.2 update?

iOS 17.2 boasts significant additions like the Journal App for documenting life events, Spatial Video Recording exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro models, and an updated Favorites Playlist in Apple Music.

How does macOS Sonoma 14.2 enhance user security?

The macOS Sonoma 14.2 update introduces iMessage Contact Key Verification, using Key Transparency to ensure secure communication and providing options for users to verify contact keys.

Are there any camera improvements in the iOS 17.2 update?

Yes, iOS 17.2 enhances the telephoto camera focusing speed for iPhone 15 Pro models, allowing better capture of distant objects.

What issues have been resolved in macOS Sonoma 14.2?

macOS Sonoma 14.2 fixes issues like ‘Turned Off’ transcript errors and incorrect eligibility notifications for Contact Key Verification, along with improvements in the Messages app.

Which iPhone models are eligible for the iOS 17.1.2 update?

The iOS 17.1.2 update is available for iPhone models starting from the iPhone 11 onwards, including the latest iPhone 15 lineup.

How can users install the iOS 17.1.2 update on their iPhones?

Users can install the iOS 17.1.2 update by going to the Settings app on their iPhone, selecting General, then Software Update, and following the on-screen instructions. It’s recommended to connect the device to a power source during the update.

Also Read: Apple Releases iOS 17.1.2 Update with Enhanced Security for iPhone and macOS Sonoma 14.1.2

Also Read: Apple will automatically assign an Apple ID passkey for users with Ipad iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma

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