The evolution of the iOS system is inevitable, requiring us to balance the excitement of new features and enhanced experiences with concerns about stability and compatibility.
It's essential to make informed choices and adjustments to enjoy the convenience and pleasures of the Apple ecosystem while ensuring the stability and security of our devices.
However, the current difficulty level of system optimization is notably high, with stringent restrictions on feature availability. For Chinese Apple fans, the experience is gradually becoming less satisfactory.
With the closure of iOS 16.7.6 downgrade options, limited access to iOS 17's new features, and the anticipation of iOS 18, the pressure on Chinese Apple fans has intensified.
First, let's understand why iOS 16.7.6 downgrading was disabled. Apple closed the downgrade channel for older versions primarily due to concerns regarding system stability and security.
With continuous updates to the iOS system, older versions may pose security vulnerabilities or performance issues. To prevent users from potential risks associated with downgrading, Apple chose to close the downgrade channel and ensure that all users have access to the latest and most secure system version.
While this move may inconvenience some users who wish to revert to older versions, in the long run, it undoubtedly serves as a protection of user interests.
However, many Apple enthusiasts have expressed disappointment, thinking that the iOS 16 experience was already subpar, only to find that iOS 17's experience is even less satisfactory. Now, they find themselves unable to revert back to the previous version.
Furthermore, with each iOS system update, a series of new features are introduced aimed at enhancing user experience and device performance. However, for some older devices, due to hardware limitations, they may not be able to support all the new features.
Many Chinese Apple enthusiasts argue that while experiencing issues due to hardware limitations may be acceptable, it's much harder to accept issues arising from regional restrictions.
For example, iOS 17.5 Beta 2 has already been pushed, not only featuring deep optimizations for third-party app stores but also bringing many outstanding features.
However, for Chinese Apple enthusiasts, they are unable to experience these new features, and the update simply results in a mere change in version number.
And since the initial release of iOS 17, it has been in a constant process of optimization without achieving true stability yet, even in its official versions.
This poses significant pressure for users who enjoy experiencing new updates, making it challenging to have a particularly good user experience in a short period.
Moreover, domestic smartphone manufacturers in China are making significant innovations in system optimization, whether it's large folders or interconnected devices.
Thus, the changes in iOS 17 have not been particularly significant, inevitably leading users to desire the choice of exploring new systems from rival companies.
And, for iOS 18, all we can do for now is patiently wait and watch. Rumors in the market suggest that the update will bring substantial changes. Particularly in the realm of AI, the upgrade with iOS 18 seems almost exaggerated. However, in reality, there remains a significant gap between the domestic and overseas versions.
For instance, while overseas models are bolstered by OpenAI in the realm of AI, the domestic version relies on Wenxin Yiyuan. While there shouldn't be any issues in terms of user experience, many Apple enthusiasts may still find it challenging to accept such divergent strategies.
In addition, the difficulty of updating the beta versions of the iOS system has become very high, making it challenging for most domestic users in China. Consequently, they can only experience the official versions.
It can be said that under a series of changes, the pressure of experiencing iOS for Chinese Apple fans is gradually increasing, especially considering the diminishing attractiveness of the iPhone.
For instance, even with some price reductions in the iPhone 15 series, it has failed to revive users' desire to choose it.
If neither the iPhone 16 series nor iOS 18 brings any surprises to users, the future development in the Chinese smartphone market might not fare well.
The system not only needs to maintain stability but also needs to bring new features and optimizations to meet user demands and enhance user experience.
So, what are your thoughts on the iOS system? Feel free to reply and discuss.
