Features

[Update] iOS 6 is out NOW - here's everything you need to know

What does it do? How much does it cost? How do I install it? (Updated: iOS 6 is available now)

[Update] iOS 6 is out NOW - here's everything you need to know
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iOS
| iOS 6

Apple is set to launch the latest version of its operating system for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.

It's called iOS 6, it's due to go live today, and - as ever - it's utterly brimming with new features, built-in apps, settings, tweaks, and fixes.

There are all-new (Google-less) maps with 3D Flyover and turn-by-turn navigation. Siri's been given a upgrade and will now chat movies and sports. Facebook has been baked in, too, so you can Like and post from anywhere in iOS.

There are Shared Photo Streams, panoramic photos, FaceTime calls over 3G, iCloud tabs, a redesigned App Store, and more.

So, where can you get iOS 6? What devices will it work on? And which features are the most exciting? Let us be your guide...

What features can I expect?

We went hands-on with iOS 6 earlier this year, almost immediately after Apple launched the developer build at WWDC 2012.

Hands-on: The 20 coolest features in iOS 6

We told you about the 20 coolest features in iOS 6, including Siri improvements, Facebook integration, Game Center challenges, and the App Store overhaul.

15 hidden features in iOS 6 for iPhone and iPad that you might never find

Then we went even deeper to find 15 hidden features that you might never find without our help. These include updating apps without a password, Folders in Spotlight, quick access to drafts in Mail, and MP3 alarms.

When will Apple launch iOS 6?

iOS 6 is scheduled to go live today, a.k.a. September 19th. Apple hasn't disclosed the specific time at which it'll push the proverbial button, but if it's anything like the previous iOS launches, it should be available around 6pm GMT - which is about 10am in San Francisco, where Apple is based.

We'll give you a holla here, and on Twitter, when it's out.

How do I get iOS 6?

Easy peasy. Once it's live, simply go to the Settings app on your device, tap on the 'General' tab, and choose 'Software Update'. You'll find an over-the-air update button right there.

If you prefer to do things the old-fashioned way, you can always plug your gadget into iTunes, select the device from the list on the left-hand side, and then click 'Check for Update'. Up to you.

What should I do before I update?

ios6backupMaking a backup would be a sensible idea. All your apps, data, save games, and photos should make the transition to iOS 6 intact, but just in case anything horrible should happen, it would be good to have a backup up your sleeve to restore from.

One way to do this is to plug your device into your PC or Mac, open up iTunes, select the device from the list on the left-hand side, and then click the 'Back Up' button there. This will save your stuff onto your computer.

Or you can use iCloud to save your backup on Apple's servers. Do this by hitting the Settings app on your device, choose 'iCloud', tap 'Storage & Backup', and tap up 'Back Up Now'.

If something goes wrong during the update process, just restore your device to factory settings and carry out the iOS 6 update from scratch. During the setup process, you'll be able to choose to Restore from a Backup, tap either 'iCloud' or 'iTunes', and follow the on-screen instructions.

What devices is iOS 6 compatible with?

iOS 6 is only compatible with the following devices:

  • iPhone 3GS
  • iPhone 4
  • iPhone 4S
  • iPhone 5 (out on September 21st)
  • iPod touch (fourth generation)
  • iPod touch (fifth generation - out in October)
  • iPad 2
  • The new iPad

Certain features of iOS 6 are even more exclusive.

Siri, for instance, is only available on iPhone 4S or later, a fifth-generation iPod touch, and the new iPad. Flyover maps and turn-by-turn navigation, meanwhile, are only available on iPhone 4S or later, a fifth-generation iPod touch, and iPad 2 and later.

Offline Reading List is available on iPhone 4 or later and iPad 2 or later, and Panorama is available on iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, and iPod touch (5th generation).

How much does it cost?

Nothing. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Unlike some previous iOS updates, iOS 6 will be completely free to all - even for you iPod touch owners.

Mark Brown
Mark Brown
Mark Brown is editor at large of Pocket Gamer