According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing to introduce a new feature in iOS 17 that will transform locked iPhones into smart home displays. When the phone is positioned horizontally and locked, the interface will showcase information like calendar appointments, weather updates, and notifications in the style of a smart home display. This feature aims to enhance the usability of iPhones when they are not actively in use, such as when they are resting on a desk or nightstand. The display will feature a dark background with bright text to ensure readability from a distance.
The smart home-style display will expand on Apple’s lock screen widgets, which were introduced in iOS 16. These widgets provide users with small snippets of information, such as weather updates and news headlines, below the time on their lock screens.
While Apple is planning to bring this feature to the iPad, it is noted that iPad updates typically arrive at a slower pace compared to iPhone features. Currently, lock screen widgets are not available on iPads.
In addition to the smart home-style display, Apple is reportedly making significant changes to the Wallet app in iOS 17 and enhancing its location services. The company is also developing a dedicated journaling app to help users record their thoughts. Updates for SharePlay, which enables synchronized streaming of TV shows, movies, and music during FaceTime calls, are also in the works.
Furthermore, Apple intends to update AirPlay, allowing users to stream video and audio to devices they don’t own. Talks have been held with hotels to facilitate this functionality.
Gurman’s previous reports have indicated that Apple is working on emotion tracking technology and plans to introduce an iPad version of the Health app this year. The Health app will incorporate tools for monitoring emotions and managing vision conditions like nearsightedness.
