While older iPhone devices may support the iOS 17 update, it does not guarantee access to all its features. Certain features in annual major iOS updates require specific technological attributes in the form of chipset sets to ensure smooth operation. Consequently, it is not surprising that some iOS 17 features, relying on the latest machine learning algorithms, necessitate more recent chips to function optimally. Some features are designed to operate exclusively with specific components, such as the LiDAR sensor. Therefore, it is imperative to be aware of the following new features that require at least an iPhone 12.
The StandBy feature suits always-on displays.
This feature transforms the iPhone into an intelligent information panel when it is charged on a horizontal MagSafe stand, turning it into a screen displaying easily accessible and quickly comprehensible useful information. It provides essential information in a concise manner.
Moreover, you can customize the tools displayed on the screen and effortlessly add user interface elements. You can add clocks in various forms and incorporate images, enabling you to view your favorite photos or cherished memories while your iPhone is charging.
Furthermore, you can view notifications in a larger and clearer format, while larger and more prominent buttons offer quick access to specific features or actions.
This feature primarily relies on the Always-On Display technology, functioning seamlessly on supported iPhone devices such as the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max. However, iPhones lacking this technology may require tapping the screen to access the StandBy mode.
The Point and Speak feature requires a LiDAR scanner
The Point and Speak accessibility feature allows blind and visually impaired users to guide their fingers and point to buttons or labels displayed through the camera. They can then describe or have them read aloud, such as household devices. This feature aims to enhance accessibility and independence for individuals with visual impairments, enabling them to interact with and comprehend various objects more effectively.
As this feature requires the LiDAR scanner, it functions exclusively on iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max.
Real-Time Reactions to User Gestures in FaceTime
With the iOS 17 update, iMessage's well-known effects such as hearts, balloons, fireworks, doodles, laser beams, and more are now available in FaceTime calls. Augmented reality effects fill the camera frame and can be utilized in compatible third-party video conferencing applications like Zoom and WebEx Meetings.
You can summon a real-time reaction manually or through a simple hand gesture, such as raising your thumb upwards. However, gesture responses are only available on iPhone 12 or newer models when using the front-facing camera.
For older iPhone models like iPhone 11, iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPhone SE (2020) that already support the iOS 17 update, manual activation of gesture responses through the Control Center is necessary.
Embedded Typing Predictions are not available on older iPhones
In the iOS 17 update, machine learning technology examines each keystroke to predict the forthcoming text, allowing you to complete words or even entire sentences. When typing in apps like Messages or Notes, you can utilize the predictive text suggestion displayed in gray by pressing the space bar.
This feature significantly accelerates text input. However, it only functions on iPhone 12 and newer versions when using the English keyboard. The feature is not supported on iPhone 11 and older models. Additionally, this feature does not work in third-party keyboard apps like Google's Gboard and Microsoft SwiftKey.
Enhanced Auto-Correction is language and device-specific
According to an Apple Newsroom post, the auto-correction feature in iOS 17 has been redesigned to utilize an advanced on-device natural language processing model for precise word predictions.
In addition to improved accuracy, temporarily highlighted corrected words make the changes more apparent. Users can quickly revert a corrected word by tapping on it. The enhanced language model also enables broader handling of grammatical errors within complete sentences compared to previous versions.
The enhanced auto-correction in the iOS 17 update currently supports the following languages: Arabic, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Korean, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, and Thai. The enhanced auto-correction is limited to iPhone 12 and newer models.
Why do some iOS 17 features not work on older iPhones?
The aforementioned functionalities heavily rely on artificial intelligence and machine learning. The Neural Engine co-processor of the iPhone enables the execution of AI algorithms independently of the central processing unit or graphics processing unit, ensuring energy efficiency and reducing the need for cloud computing resources.
Not all neural engines possess the same capabilities. The Neural Engine in the A14 Bionic chip for iPhone 12 is twice as fast as the previous iteration, and the A14 chip also incorporates second-generation machine learning matrix accelerators that are ten times faster than those found in the A13 chip of the iPhone 11.
Consequently, iPhone 12 can perform AI-related tasks, deep learning, and neural network operations significantly faster and with improved performance compared to previous iPhone models.
If you own an iPhone 12, you will not miss out on real-time gesture reactions, enhanced auto-correction, and other mentioned iOS 17 capabilities.