Apple, as expected after the unveiling of iPhone 5 in San Francisco last week, is now set to push out its brand new operating system iOS 6. The new OS will be available for all the supported devices, including iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch 4, iPad 3, and iPad 2 starting Sept. 19.
Even though the company has been seeding developer betas of iOS 6 since June, the mobile platform will be available for public use from Wednesday. Considering that iOS 6 will be coming with over 200 new features (like new Maps app, Facebook integration, Passbook organization, an enhanced Siri, the ability to make FaceTime calls over a cellular network etc), it's important that you prepare your device accordingly.
Here are a few more steps to get prepared.
- Prepping the device:Make sure that your device is in the right condition before the update makes its way. Remember to get rid of superfluous content on your device to have enough free space. It is important to back up your device and get the latest version of iTunes (iTunes 10.7) if you are planning to sync the upgraded device with your computer. Seeherefor more help.
- There will be problems:Apple, as noted previously, is upgrading the App Store for the next-gen iPhone 5 as well as the iOS 6. So, if faulty apps that fail to run after the upgrade process is done set you back, don't lose hope because this just a minor hiccup. However, it is important that you prepare yourself for incompatibility issues and errors.
- Power it up:This step is important. Before you begin the upgrade process, check that a power source is available at hand. That said, chances are that the situation can turn pretty ugly if your device runs out of charge in the middle of the process. Therefore, avoid any such issues and have a power back up.
- Update will happen over-the-air (OTA):Apple had already introduced the OTA updates with the arrival of iOS 5, and now you can get the update even without plugging your iDevice to the computer (i.e., if you are already running iOS 5). You can also reject the update if you don't want it. If you opt for this then be careful that you don't agree to the update.
- Expect delays:Considering the excitement surrounding the arrival of iOS 6, expect traffic delays and issues as Apple begins pushing out the OTA. The best option here is to wait patiently. Alternately, you could give it a rest on Sept. 19 and try for the update the next day. That way you will be saved from the big rush that is imminent as soon as the update goes live.
- iOS Arrival Time:Finally, Apple is expected to release the iOS 6 update at 10AM PST (1PM EST) on Sept. 19. The company released the iOS 5 update last year and iOS 4 update the year before around the same time. For more details on timing, seehere.
