The next iPhone update is just around the corner, and it looks like it’ll be the biggest midcycle update Apple has ever released. It includes new emojis, an easier way to check your battery life, updates to better stolen device protection, and big changes for EU users. There’s also a surprise update that will change iMessage forever. And now, as they say, there is one more.
You may have noticed the new Reactions feature in video calling apps like FaceTime. When you do his two thumbs up gesture, fireworks will appear around you on the screen. It is very good. But what if you don’t want to see these effects?
Or if you don’t know them or they suddenly sneak up on you?For example, when Sen. John Fetterman on video call with MSNBC, I used my hands to simulate speech quotes. The software misinterpreted this as his two peace sign, and virtual confetti rained down on him.
This can happen to anyone in the most inappropriate of situations, such as a heated argument, a personal therapy session, or even a video call where a boss fires an employee.
The problem so far was that these reactions were turned on by default. With iOS 17.4, that changes.
With the next iPhone update, and the next iPadOS and macOS Sonoma updates, developers will be able to choose to turn these reactions off by default, allowing them, or potentially users, to turn them back on. You will be able to do this.
This is a big step forward, but honestly, I wish there was a nudge for users every time they log into a call with FaceTime, Zoom, Google Meet, etc. After all, you might be happy to see a balloon on your phone call with your family, but you might be disappointed if you forget to turn it off the next time you apologize to your boss.
All the new fun in iOS 17.4 will be on our way in the coming days, possibly as early as Monday, March 4th at 10am Pacific Time.
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