Apple is currently testing iOS 17.5, the fifth major update to the iOS 17 operating system released last September. Similar to iOS 17.4, iOS 17.5 primarily addresses regulatory changes in the European Union, but there are also some other noteworthy features.
Numerous changes are noted in the code for iOS 17.5, hinting at potential new features to come in later beta testing or upon official release.
iOS 17.5 mentions support for third-party tracker alerts, an ongoing effort by Apple since last year.
Apple and Google have developed a cross-platform solution for unwanted tracking alerts. iOS 17.5 seems poised to inform iPhone users when third-party trackers are nearby. Part of the update's code states: "You can disable this tracker and prevent it from sharing your location with its owner. To do this, follow the instructions provided on the manufacturer's website."
Earlier this month, Google launched the Android-based Find My Device network.
FaceTime might introduce a "Block All Participants" option in group FaceTime calls, potentially to block spam messages. However, as of now, this feature seems inactive.
References to the iPad's battery health menu are made but not yet available. In the current beta, this option is absent and may be exclusive to the new iPads expected to launch in May by Apple.
The battery health menu may display maximum remaining capacity and charging cycle count, similar to the iPhone's battery health menu.
The code for iOS 17.5 mentions the "V4" version of the Apple Pencil, along with a "squeeze" feature possibly used to perform actions on the new Apple Pencil.
Apple may release iOS 17.5 in early May. With new iPad models planned for May, the update might coincide with the launch of these new iPad models by Apple.