iOS 17: All the Safety Features in the Latest iPhone Update

This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the safety functions incorporated into iOS 17, complementing our iOS 17 privacy and security guide. Apple has introduced various features to enhance user safety and privacy on their devices. Let’s delve into the details of these functions.

Sensitive Content Warnings:

To prevent unsolicited nude photos and similar content, iOS 17 includes Sensitive Content Warnings. This feature scans incoming files, videos, and images on the device and blocks them if they contain nudity. By enabling this function, all nudity will be blocked by default, but users can choose to view the content by tapping on the “Show” button. Sensitive Content Warnings can be accessed and enabled in the Settings app under Privacy & Security. Additionally, users can apply opt-in blurring to images in Messages, AirDrop, Contact Posters for the Phone app, FaceTime messages, and third-party apps. This feature is designed for people of all ages and is separate from the Communication Safety features implemented for children.

Messages Check In:

Messages Check In is a useful feature that allows users to inform others when they are going somewhere. It enables friends or family members to keep track of your location and ensure your safety. By sharing your destination and estimated arrival time, you provide others with important information. If you fail to check in at the designated time, they can contact you and access your location in case of an emergency. To use this feature, open the Messages app, select the conversation with the person you want to use Check In with, tap the “+” button next to the text input bar, tap on More, and then tap on Check In. Follow the prompts to start the feature. Check In provides notifications to your designated contacts when you reach your destination or if you’re not making progress towards it within 15 minutes.

Communication Safety:

Apple introduced Communication Safety as an opt-in feature to protect children from sending or receiving photos containing nudity. It blurs explicit content and offers helpful resources while encouraging children to reach out to trusted adults. In iOS 17, Communication Safety expands worldwide, making it available in more countries than before. It is turned on by default for children under the age of 13 who are signed in to their Apple ID and part of a Family Sharing group. Parents can also enable it for older teens by accessing the Settings app under Screen Time. Furthermore, Communication Safety’s protections extend to AirDrop, the systemwide photo picker, FaceTime messages, and third-party apps, in addition to the Messages app.

Offline Maps:

The Maps app in iOS 17 offers offline functionality, allowing users to access turn-by-turn directions and information even without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. This feature is particularly useful when traveling to remote areas or engaging in activities like hiking. To download a map for offline use, simply search for a location in the Maps app, tap the “More” button, and select the “Download Map” option. You can choose the specific area you want to save, and multiple areas can be downloaded. To manage your offline maps, open the Maps app, tap on your profile picture, and select Offline Maps. This interface allows you to update, delete, rename, and resize maps, as well as download new ones. You can even set downloads to automatically update, and there’s an option to use offline maps when a connection is available.

Critical Medication Reminders:

The Health app in iOS 17 includes a Medications feature that sends follow-up reminders if a user hasn’t marked a medication as taken within 30 minutes of the initial notification. This helps ensure medication adherence and promotes health management. Additionally, Apple plans to introduce Critical Alerts for important medications, which will appear on the Lock Screen and play a sound even if the iPhone is muted or a Focus mode is enabled. This feature aims to provide essential reminders that users can’t afford to miss.

These are some of the notable safety functions introduced in iOS 17. Apple continues to prioritize user privacy and security by integrating innovative features that enhance the overall experience while keeping users’ personal information and well-being in mind.