The full public release of iOS 11 is right around the corner. Of course, if you can’t wait, you can check out iOS 11 right now. Follow our guide here to download and install the iOS 11 beta 4. If you’re wondering whether to take the plunge or not, here are some of the best iOS 11 features that you will be able to enjoy:
7 Best iOS 11 Features
Storage Improvements
Anyone who has used an iPhone, especially the 16GB and 32GB models, has likely gone through the process of deleting old photos and videos off their device. in iOS 11, Apple has introduced improved photo and video compression which is thought to be 2x more effective than previous compression standards with no loss of quality. That means 2x more photos of your lunch and 2x more videos of your dog doing cute things.
Overhauled App Store
The App Store was due for a makeover and iOS 11 has finally done that. The App Store is what makes an iPhone an iPhone. Without the App Store, an iPhone would be an expensive calculator that makes phone calls and takes pictures. Now, games and apps will be separate. App discovery has also been improved so you should be able to find apps that interest you more easily.
Files
iOS is finally getting a file manager. This will be a standalone app that helps users manage and find the files they store on their device. The lack of a file manager in iOS has long been one of the standby arguments for Android fans in the battle of iPhone vs Android. Once more third-party apps are supported by the Files app, iOS users will have a legitimately great file manager.
Control Center Customization
Control Center is a great way for users to access a lot of their most-used toggles and apps. However, until iOS 11, Control Center somewhat ironically did not offer a lot of control. Now, Apple is allowing users to customize Control Center to display the apps and toggles that they would like to see. This should make Control Center a lot more intuitive for users.
Screenshots and Screen Recording
Snapping and editing screenshots has been greatly improved in iOS. After taking a screenshot, users will be able to edit screenshots right away. In previous versions of iOS, users had to go into the Photos app and then open the screenshot to edit it. Screen recording has also been introduced in iOS 11. This eliminates the need for third-party stopgap solutions. The screen recording toggle can also be added to Control Center for those who do a lot of recording.
Siri Improvements
Siri has a few new tricks up her sleeve. First, her voice is more natural-sounding and less Siri-sounding. Users can also type their commands for Siri in iOS 11. This is great in loud environments where Siri might not be able to understand the user. Finally, Siri can translate text for users. The feature doesn’t seem to be as good as the translation offered by Google Assistant but it’s a step in the right direction.
Improved Apple Maps
Apple Maps had a rough introduction to the world a few years ago but Apple Maps is now trusted by many users. Now, Apple Maps can do more than just basic maps and directions. There will be speed limit and lane warnings for users that help them navigate unfamiliar routes. As well, users will be able to see indoor maps of some locations like malls and airports.
Just a Taste
That’s just a quick look at some of the best iOS 11 features. There are plenty of major and minor improvements for iPhone users to enjoy. As mentioned, the full iOS 11 release will be reaching the public in a few weeks. Users that don’t want t wait are able to download and install the iOS 11 beta 4 now.
Have you tried iOS 11 yet? What are your thoughts? What is your favorite feature? What is iOS still missing? Let us know!
