Released on Wednesday this week, the newest operating system for Apple’s devices is out, and it’s worth the download.
The free update is available for iPod Touch, iPad, and iPhone. But note that the older devices aren’t able to run the new OS, so if you have a 3rd generation iPod touch, a 1st gen iPad, or an iPhone prior to the iPhone 3GS (for example an iPhone 3) then this operating system isn’t for you and you might be considering an upgrade anyway.
HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES:
About 15% of iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices were already running Apple IOS 6 just 24 hours after Apple launched its 6th generation mobile software. And why not. Not only is the update free, but it adds new features and smoother experiences for everyone.
While it’s true you may never use some of the new features, it’s likely you’ll find something in this update you love.
FACEBOOK INTEGRATION: At first glance I like this concept. Similar to the integration of Twitter in iOS 5, you can now share to facebook without having to use the facebook app. Whether it’s a web site url or a photo on your device, sharing is much easier than before since facebook is now part on the list of share options when you touch the share icon. I had been hoping this feature was in the pipes, and it’s finally here.
PHONE: Reply with a message: also very useful. If you’re unable to take an incoming call you now have the option to reply with a preloaded message (such as “call you later”, “what’s up?” and so forth). Option B … You can send the caller directly to voicemail (do not pass go do not collect $200), or your iPhone can remind you to return the call later.
There are 200+ upgrades and tweaks in all. But not all of them will operate on all iOS 6 devices.
MAPS: Apple’s new map app replaces Google MAPS and implements turn-by-turn navigation … BUT only if you’re using a newer device. Same holds true for Fly Over. But if you’re using an older phone for example for example iPhone 3GS you’ll still likely like the new app since the compass works quite nicely. There’s no need to mentally orient your brain to the map to determine what direction you’ll be turning next. It’s more like a regular GPS.
DO NOT DISTURB: Perhaps one of the most useful but under-rated new features. Not only can you put your phone in a true SILENT mode, you can also tweak the settings to allow certain notifications or calls to still come through. Perhaps useful during dinner or while at the theatre. When Do Not Disturb is activated, a user’s phone can still receive incoming calls, messages and other notifications, but won’t alert you until later, keeping the iPhone’s screen dark, its vibrations still and its tones silent. The Do Not Disturb tool marks a refreshing admission by a tech company that we actually have a life beyond our gadgets. Nice.
PASSBOOK: I can see a lot of value in this, since I already have been doing this manually. For handwritten notes, account numbers, shopping lists and important receipts, I snap a photo and store them in a dedicated album called NOTES. Passbook is now a dedicated app, where you can store coupons, tickets and boarding passes.
Yes there are 200+ tweaks to Apple’s mobile platform. And while you may not use all of them, you’ll likely find some hidden gems you love. And if your hardware is older and unable to run some of the newest features it might be enough motivation to whip out your wallet and upgrade to a newer device.
