“A new iOS for the new iPhone” That sounds logical, but inadequate. It will do no harm to delve deeper and know what this new marvel has in store for us. Like any other innovative innovation, iOS 6 comes with custom-made functionality that will not take long before becoming an integral part of us, one that we will eventually find difficult to live without.

High expectations might however be dashed by the first glance at the interface of this new OS. It looks similar to its predecessor, iOS 5, and there is where the similarities end. The new OS has a few changes splattered all over, with the most visible being on the ability of the status bar to change its color shade to match that of the currently running app and a slightly brightened keypad.

Rigid individuals should however find solace in the fact that with so much change, some things remain the same. For instance, though the phone app has a new dialer, the favorites remain the same and simple, with a vertical list of names without their associated images.

When it comes to speed, the OS does not actually feel any different from its predecessors. Apart from browser improvements, the whole innovation actually makes the entire device a lot slower. Though this might seem to be a setback, it actually is a worthy trade off. The reduced operation speed is what will deliver extra battery life, hence more connectivity time.

Where the iOS 6 seems to beat iOS 5 is on the Universal Search feature nested one swipe away from the home screen. For seasoned users, you will notice that the delay between app opening and actual running is not as much as it used to be making the entire experience better and worthy a second chance.

New and improved apps in the OS include Maps, Siri,  a photo streaming feature, passbook, Facebook and Twitter integration, an updated App store and iTunes store and an improved and invigorating Safari browser.

My favorite app is Siri.  Though the app debuted in the iPhone 4, with improvements in the fifth iteration, the most adorable feature is the ability to launch third-party applications through Siri. A command like “launch twitter” will bring a confirmation prompt. This is one of the most challenging areas for voice-controlled apps. However, Siri will always be able to launch the desired app in a second trial.

The post At a glance: What the iOS 6 update brings into the Apple world first appeared on Techerator.

First you need to determine if your device is compatible with the update. iOS 6 is compatible with:

• Phone 3GS and newer
• 2nd generation iPad and newer
• 4th generation iPod Touch and newer

You also must have a wireless internet connection and/or be connected to iTunes on your computer to install the update.

How to update via wireless

First, make sure you are plugged into a power source. Next, open the Settings app on your device. The app might actually have a red one on the icon indicating an update is available. Tap “General” and then tap “Software Update.”

You should see a screen telling you there is an update available with a button to install the update. Tap that update button and wait. The update will download and install. It will probably take a while, so you should probably go run an errand and come back in about an hour.

Once the update is finished the device will reboot and you will go through a mini set up to get up and running in iOS 6. Make sure you have your iCloud information available, if you use iCloud (you can also skip these steps).

How to update via iTunes

Start by connecting your device to the computer (which needs an internet connection). If you aren’t prompted to install an update you can manually initiate it. Click you device in the Library and go to the Info tab for the device. There will be a “Check for Updates” button on this screen. Click that and if your device is compatible you will be told an update is available.

Go through the steps and, just like above, this will take about an hour (your time may vary depending on internet connection speeds). Once finished, the device will reboot and you will go through the same procedure mentioned above.

Conclusion

So should you update? That is up to you. If you have an older device you might want to search the internet for reports on how your device works after the update. Some older devices might have issues – even though Apple has said it is compatible. Also, depending on your device, you won’t get all of the new features.

Personally, I update my devices. I like having the latest and greatest (or not so greatest) new features. You, on the other hand, may be happy with the way your device works and it does everything you want it to do. Either way, now you know how to get your device up to date with iOS 6.

The post How to update your Apple iOS device to iOS 6 first appeared on Techerator.