iPhone will warn about nearby tracking devices: Apple releases iOS 17.5, which has several new features

Apple has released the iOS 17.5 update with a feature to notify about Bluetooth trackers (tracking devices), the Repair State feature allowing to repair iPhones without disabling the Find My system. In addition, the ability to download apps directly from developer websites has been added, Engadget.com reports.

One of the key additions is the support for cross-platform notification system for unwanted Bluetooth trackers. This feature was developed by Apple in collaboration with Google to enhance user privacy and security. Now iPhone and Android device owners will be able to receive warnings about the presence of nearby third-party tracking devices.

Additionally, iOS 17.5 introduces a new Repair State feature, which allows iPhone owners to repair their devices without turning off the Find My service before sending the phone for repair. This, according to the developers' intention, will expedite the servicing process and make it safer.

Another significant innovation is the support for downloading apps from developer websites, but only in European Union countries. This is due to new amendments to the EU Digital Markets Law. However, downloading iOS apps directly from websites will not become widely available. To provide this option to users, developers will first have to comply with the new App Store rules. Specifically, they will need to have a developer account with a positive reputation and an app that has been installed over 1 million times on iOS devices in the previous year.

These are not the only changes in iOS 17.5. The Apple News+ app has also been updated, finally receiving an offline mode, allowing subscribers to read news and stories without an internet connection. The update is already available for download. To download it, go to Settings -> General -> Software Update -> Update Now and follow the on-screen instructions.