Apple’s new Pride Collection heralds the launch of iOS 17.5 with dynamic wallpapers
Continuing an annual tradition, Apple this year unveiled the Pride Collection in honor of the LGBTQ+ community. The 2024 set includes two new wallpapers for iPhones and iPads plus a new watch face and wristband for the Apple Watch.
Launching first on May 22nd is the band called the Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop. Apple states that the color scheme is inspired by several pride flags. The pink, light blue and white threads are meant to represent “transgender and non-binary” people, while “black and brown symbolize black, Hispanic and Latin communities” plus groups affected by HIV/AIDS. Laser etched onto the ridge are the words “PRIDE 2024”.
The Pride Braided Loop will be available in both 41mm and 45mm for $99. It will fit both the Apple Watch SE and “Apple Watch Series 4 or later” models. You can buy it in the US on the 22nd at a physical Apple Store or on the company’s website. Other regions of the world can purchase the band the next day. No word on how much it will cost outside the United States, although we did ask.
Dynamic wallpaper
The wallpaper coming to Apple hardware is known as Pride Radiance. What’s different about it is that it is not a static image, but rather dynamic. On the Apple Watch, the light streams actively follow the numbers of the digital clock. They even respond to the wearable’s movements in real time. 9To5Mac claims in the coverage, users can customize the appearance of the background by choosing “from different style palettes.”
On iPhones and iPads, Pride Radiance is also dynamic, but does not follow the clock. Instead, the light spells out the word “pride” on the screen. Interested parties can download the wallpaper ‘soon’ via the Apple Watch and Apple Store app. An exact date was not given. However, the company has confirmed that it will be rolling out with iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5 and watchOS 10.5.
This is notable because, until this recent post, the company had not yet announced when the next major software update would arrive for its devices. iOS 17.5 in particular will introduce some interesting features, such as the ability to download apps from developer websites instead of the Apple Store. We did see indications last week that the company is busy implementing Repair State. This puts iPhones “in a special sleep mode” when people take the device in for repair.
Considering that Repair State still seems to be in its early stages, we probably won’t see this again on iOS 17.5 for a few weeks; although it may roll out on iOS 18.
Be sure to check out Ny Breaking’s suggestions for the best Apple Watch for 2024.