New emojis and other key features

Apple has released iOS 17.4, the latest software update for iPhone devices. Tuesday’s update includes new emojis, improvements to the recently added Stolen Device Protection feature, and big changes for the European Union.

Here’s what you need to know about the update:

New emoticons

The lime wedge, nodding and shaking heads, phoenix and mushroom are just some of the new emojis introduced in the latest OS update.

Apple Podcast Transcriptions

Podcast episodes in the Apple Podcast app will feature transcripts with text highlighting synchronized with the audio, in English, Spanish, French and German. The text will also be searchable and can be used with other accessibility features, such as resizing text or using VoiceOver.

Device theft protection improvements

Stolen Device Protection, which was introduced in iOS 17.3, will have an enhanced security option in all locations. If stolen device protection is turned on, if your device is stolen, a thief will not be able to get into your device and block access. To access certain information or make certain changes, the iPhone would require more authentication.

Changes to the App Store in the EU

It won’t be highlighted in the updates for US users, but Apple has made changes to the iPhone and App Store ahead of a deadline for tech companies to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union. The update allows iPhone access to “alternative app markets” for the first time, meaning users can install apps from alternative app stores, gain support for other web browser engines, and access other payment methods. These changes will only apply in the EU, but this is a major change to iPhone and its operating system and could impact similar changes in the US and other countries in the future.

Additional updates and bug fixes include:

• Caller ID will display information about Apple-verified businesses, including name and logo, if available

• Music recognition allows you to add songs to your library or playlists

• Siri can announce messages in any supported language

• More details about battery status can be found in Settings

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Apple releases iOS 17.4 update for iPhone: new emojis, key features