Apple's new iOS 17 Check In feature automatically tells loved ones when you make it home

Say hello to iOS 17, Apple’s newest software!

The software update is packed with fun features and useful updates, like a new and improved autocorrect, an updated look for AirDrop, and the ability to leave a voicemail on FaceTime.

iOS 17 is compatible with iPhone XS and newer.

The software release comes after the tech company announced its latest lines of hardware, including the iPhone 15, hitting stores on September 22nd.

The new iPhone comes in five colors, including pink and yellow, an improved camera, and a USB-C charging port.

The new phone is also saying goodbye to a longtime iPhone staple: the ring/mute switch. In its place will be a programmable “Action Button.” 

Watch this video to see how Check In works on an iPhone.

Check In on iPhone 

Apple's new Check In feature automatically notifies someone when you have reached your destination.

Checking In is pretty simple:

First, Find or create a message with the person you want to notify. 

Then, tap the '+' sign next to the message box, tap Check In, then send! 

If you're getting a message saying, "Check In is not available to send to this recipient," make sure both devices are running on iOS 17 or later.

You can tweak the notification settings if you need to. 

Tapping Edit lets you choose between a notification being sent after a set amount of time or once you reach a specific location.

What if there's traffic, or you need to stop for gas or groceries? Not a problem! Easily add more time by tapping Details, then Add Time.

The person you're checking in with will be notified when you send the Check In and when you end it.

If you don’t respond to Check In-related prompts from your phone or if your phone is turned off for an extended period of time, it will notify the other person.

Data Sharing with Check In

The first time you use this feature, it will ask how much data you want to share with the other person. 

There are two options: Limited and Full. 

Here’s what they mean:

• Limited: Shares your most recent location, battery details, and network signal.
• Full: Shares all of the Limited data plus the route your phone has traveled, the location of your last iPhone unlock and/or Apple Watch removal. 

These can be changed at any time in Settings > Messages > Data. 

How to download iOS 17?

To download the new software, click on the Settings icon on your phone. 

Tap General, then tap Software Update. 

This should show you any available updates that your phone has. 

If the update won’t install, it could be due to your phone not having enough space.

Check how much storage your phone has by tapping on iPhone Storage in the General menu.

This will also provide suggestions for places you can clean out to make room, like emptying your recently deleted pictures folder. 

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