This new functionality aims to turn the iPhone into a convenient home data hub.
When the iPhone is not in use and placed horizontally, it will display various information including calendar appointments, weather updates, notifications, and more.
US-based tech giant Apple is set to unveil iOS 17 at the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference, which will begin with the keynote event on June 5, 2023. One of the notable features expected in iOS 17 is the updated Lock Screen interface that replaces the . iPhone in “smart-home display”.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, when the iPhone is not in use and placed horizontally, it will show various information including calendar appointments, weather updates, notifications, and more.
This new functionality aims to turn the iPhone into a convenient home data hub. MacRumors reports that when the iPhone is connected to the MagSafe charging stand in a horizontal position, users will experience a smart home interface that is reminiscent of devices like the Echo Show or the Google Nest Hub.
According to the report, the purpose of the smart-home display feature is to make the iPhone more useful when it is idle and placed on a desk or nightstand. The iPhone-maker is also planning to use a dark background with light colored text to ensure easy readability of the displayed information.
With iOS 17, the Cupertino-based company is attempting to enhance the functionality of iPhones, providing users with valuable information at a glance, even when they are not actively being used.
In related news, Mark Gurman said that Apple’s upcoming iOS 17 update for iPhone will include improvements to a number of apps and features, including Wallet, Find My, SharePlay, and AirPlay.
The US-based tech giant is also working on upgrading its SharePlay feature and improving its wireless streaming protocol AirPlay to watch content with family and friends over FaceTime calls.
He also said that there would be “significant changes” to the Wallet app, in particular, but did not provide specific details. He added that Apple is planning enhancements to location services for the Find My app without elaborating further.
