Apple Releases iOS 17.5 With Tracking Detection and EU App Downloads

Today, Apple released iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, bringing several new features to the iPhone and iPad operating systems. The iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 updates are available now for iPhone and iPad, and you can check them by going to Settings > General > Software Update.

iOS 17.5 Features

Cross-Platform Tracking Detection

One of the key new features in iOS 17.5 is cross-platform support for unwanted tracker detection. Developed in cooperation with Google, this allows Apple's Find My network and Google's new Find My Device network to work together to alert users if a Bluetooth tracker they don't own seems to be moving along with them, regardless of the operating system the tracker is paired with. The goal is to keep users safe from unwanted tracking attempts.

App Downloads From Websites in the EU

For users in the European Union, iOS 17.5 adds support for web-based app distribution. iPhone users can now download apps directly from developer websites without going through the App Store, similar to Android. Developers must meet specific criteria to offer web downloads, and Apple charges a 0.50 euro Core Technology Fee per download but no commission.

In addition, Apple News+ gains an offline mode for accessing the Today feed and News+ tab without an internet connection. There's also a new daily word game called Quartiles exclusive to News+ subscribers, plus a scoreboard for stats and streaks in News+ games like Crossword.

Some of the other iOS 17.5 updates include a repair state option for servicing iPhones without deactivating Find My, a Podcasts widget with dynamic background art, and mobile device management improvements.