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With the upcoming release of iOS 17, the latest operating system for iPhones, an interesting new feature awaits us. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the lock screen in iOS 17 will transform the iPhone into a "smart home display." This innovative feature is designed to turn the iPhone into a data hub in your home by displaying useful information and notifications when the device is not actively in use.
In its quest to further improve the iPhone user experience, Apple has allegedly the lock screen in iOS 17 has been developed into a powerful tool for the smart home. By orientating the iPhone horizontally and not in use, it transforms into a versatile display surface, similar to the Echo Show or the Google Nest Hub. This new feature builds on the widget options for the lock screen already introduced in iOS 16 and opens up a wealth of possibilities for users. For example, if you place the iPhone on a MagSafe charging station and orient it horizontally, the smart home interface appears. Various information such as calendar appointments, weather data and notifications can be displayed here. The iPhone thus serves not only as a personal assistant but also as a control center for the smart home.
iOS 17 Update: Your iPhone becomes a Smart Home control center
Apple has opted for a dark background with lighter text to improve the readability of on-screen information. Apple is also planning a horizontal interface for the iPad, although this may not be available with the launch of iPadOS 17. Additionally, the company is working on a low-cost tablet that can be magnetically attached to walls and stands and functions as a dedicated home hub. This device will allow users to control and manage their smart home even more efficiently. Anticipation for iOS 17 is growing, and many users are excited about the new features. By transforming the iPhone into a "smart home display," the device will become even more versatile and useful when not in active use. The announcement of iOS 17 is expected to be made at the keynote on June 5 during the Worldwide Developers Conference 2023. (Photo by Denis Rozhnovsky / Bigstockphoto)
