The release candidate (RC) of iOS 17.1, the first significant update to the September-released iOS 17, was just made available by Apple. The final stage before the official public release—which is anticipated to occur no later than October 24—is the RC version.
The iPhone now has a number of new features and enhancements thanks to iOS 17.1, including support for bank balances in Apple Wallet and AirDrop over the Internet. Here is all the information you need to know about downloading the iOS 17.1 beta.
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AirDrop Over the Internet
iOS 17.1’s AirDrop over the Internet feature is highly anticipated because it enables users to share files with adjacent devices without requiring them to be on the same Wi-Fi network or have Bluetooth enabled.
This function creates a safe network by linking devices using cellular data and P2P Wi-Fi. Sharing huge files or photographs with someone who is not on your contact list or in a crowded environment where Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections are weak are two situations when using AirDrop over the Internet comes in handy.
You need an iPhone 14 or later running iOS 17.1 or later in order to use AirDrop over the internet. You’ll also need to make sure you have enough cellular data and that your Personal Hotspot is turned on.
Launch the app from which you wish to share the file, hit the Share button, and choose AirDrop from the menu that appears. If multiple devices are in range, you can select the one you want to share with from the list. When the file transfer is complete, the receiver will be notified and given the option to accept or deny the transfer.
iOS 17.1 beta 3 is now available:
iOS 17.1 beta 3 is now available! pic.twitter.com/TTcbTO5jwe
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) October 10, 2023
Bank Balance Support in Apple Wallet
Another new feature of iOS 17.1 is bank balance support in Apple Wallet, which allows users to check their bank account balance without opening a separate app. This feature is currently available only for UK users who have added their bank cards to Apple Wallet.
Users can also set up notifications to alert them when their balance changes or when they receive payments. To use bank balance support in Apple Wallet, you need to have an iPhone 12 or later running iOS 17.1 or later.
You also need to have a supported bank card added to Apple Wallet. To check your balance, simply open the Wallet app and tap on your bank card. You will see your current balance and recent transactions on the screen.
To set up notifications, tap on the … button on the top right corner and select Notifications. Then, toggle on the options you want, such as Balance Changes, Payments Received, or Low Balance Alerts.
In case you missed it, we’ve got you covered with details about Apple’s latest iOS update and their plans for in-store iPhone updates. Check out our articles here: iOS 17.0.3 Release and Apple In-Store Updates.
Other Improvements and Bug Fixes
iOS 17.1 also brings some other improvements and bug fixes to enhance the performance and stability of the iPhone. Some of these include:
- A new playlist of favourite songs in the Music app, where users can see their most played and liked songs.
- A new section for recommended tracks in the Music app, where users can discover new music based on their listening history and preferences.
- More album art customization options in the Music app, where users can choose from different colors and shapes for their album covers.
- A new flashlight icon on iPhone 14 models, indicates when the flashlight is on or off.
- A fix for France’s radio testing protocol for iPhone 12 models, which caused some devices to display incorrect information about their exposure to radio waves.
How to Download iOS 17.1 Beta
If you are a developer or a public beta tester, you can download the iOS 17.1 beta by visiting the Apple Developer Center or by updating your iPhone through the Settings app. To update your iPhone through the Settings app, go to Settings > General > Software Update and tap on Download and Install.
Before downloading iOS 17.1 beta, make sure you back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. Also, keep in mind that beta software may contain bugs or issues that could affect your device’s performance or battery life. Therefore, it is advisable not to install beta software on your primary device or on devices that contain important data.
If you are not a developer or a public beta tester, you can still sign up for the [Apple Beta Software Program] website and get access to iOS 17.1 beta once it is available for public testing. However, you should follow the same precautions as mentioned above before installing beta software on your device.
iOS 17.1 beta is an exciting update that brings new features and improvements to the iPhone. If you want to try it out before its official release, you can download it now if you are a developer or a public beta tester, or wait for the public beta version to be released soon.
