As expected, Apple took the wraps off iOS 6 at WWDC 2012, unveiling the many new applications and features (more than 200), which will power its new mobile operating system. Five of the key features are detailed below.
Facebook ~ Facebook gets a much needed boost with full blown integration in iOS6 that will allow users to post status updates from their mobile devices, share photos, and 'like' content, including apps in the app store.
Siri ~ Siri gets her groove on in several new languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Korean. She can now launch and run many applications entirely through voice commands as well, and will be usable with many of the other new features of iOS 6, including Apple Maps and Facebook (you'll be able to post status updates entirely through Siri).
Apple Maps ~ Apple Maps is Apple's new in-house mapping service, replacing Google Maps within iOS 6. It aims to not only be a viable alternative to Google Maps right from launch, but a superior one. Siri and Yelp integration, traffic updates, and 3D maps are just some of the exciting features Apple Maps has in store for iOS 6 users.
Passbook ~ This app could prove extremely useful for some, and dead weight for others. It functions similar to the app CardStar, keeping track of all of your loyalty cards, in addition to other items like event tickets, which come complete with 2-D barcode which can be scanned like a regular barcode. You can also use Passbook to purchase movie tickets directly from Fandango, and use the app at the movie theater to 'show' your ticket.
Photo Streams ~ Shared photo streams are coming to iCloud, allowing users to share their favorite photos with any and all on their contact lists, rate and comment on other's photos, and even 'like' photos that pop up in their stream.
iOS 6 will come loaded with many exciting new features, and greater synchronicity than ever between all of its various apps. It should prove to be a hugely popular upgrade, and one that firmly positions itself in the mobile software lead over rival Google's Android.
