iOS 17.2 beta introduces App Store category focus for enhanced browsing

Apple is gearing up for changes in the upcoming iOS 17.2 software, currently in beta testing, with a focus on App Store categories.

In the "Apps" section, users will find a new top navigation bar, allowing them to easily browse through various app categories like Entertainment, Education, Photo & Video, Music, and Navigation. This navigation system mirrors the categories already present in the "Browse Categories" menu at the bottom of the app section.

Similarly, the "Games" section will feature a list of categories, such as puzzle, casual, racing, and more, aligning with the categories found in the Games tab.

Tapping into one of these categories in the Apps or Games sections will display apps associated with that specific category. Apple is extending the top bar navigation concept from Apple Arcade to other sections of the App Store.

Additionally, Apple is adopting a new design approach, introducing category cards with detailed icons, a departure from the previous text-based lists with simpler icons.