March 19, 2024, 11:15 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Apple regularly releases new updates for its iPhone. However, with the recently launched iOS 17.4, not everything is working as it should.
With new software updates, device manufacturers often introduce new features and fixes that users should download as soon as possible. Apple recently provided its customers with a major update for iPhones. But not everything is running smoothly under iOS 17.4. Various apps are no longer functioning properly; TECHBOOK explains the circumstances.
iOS 17.4 affects some functions
Online, the number of users reporting issues with iOS 17.4 is growing. On platforms such as Facebook and Apple’s own user forum, users describe sudden difficulties in various apps with the provision of air pressure data.
These are typically captured by the iPhone’s internal barometer, which has been included in every Apple smartphone model since the iPhone 6. However, after the current update, it seems to no longer function correctly. Consequently, applications that rely on this information for air pressure and altitude measurement are affected. Currently, only fictional values are displayed.
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What affected users can do
In specific circles such as paragliding and other high-altitude sports, barometer apps are not only practical but essential. Accordingly, there is strong emphasis on the problem. The operators of the Flyskyhy app even warn against installing iOS 17.4.
To temporarily circumvent this issue, it is recommended that affected users refrain from updating. If the update has already been installed, it should be deleted, and an older iOS version should be used. Contact has been made with Apple, but no response has been received yet.
Those who need air pressure data in their apps can also opt for alternatives outside the internal barometer. Flyskyhy reports that the problem does not occur when the information is obtained via a Bluetooth connection.
Additionally, a user in an Apple developer forum has found another solution: The barometer’s API, known as CMAltimeter, requires user permission, which does not appear during use. The trick is to force this permission request with a special programming command. Once granted, it should work again.
Apple plans quick iPhone update
It is currently unclear if and when the issue will be addressed officially. However, as reported by sources such as “MacRumors,” the release of the iPhone update to iOS 17.4.1 is imminent.
This will likely be a relatively small update. Fans should not expect major new functionalities; instead, it will primarily focus on improved security and bug fixes. It is at least conceivable that the barometer error will be corrected in the process.