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The latest generation of Apple’s mobile software – iOS 9 – is all set to be rolled out.
This version introduces better multi-tasking options including a split-screen view on iPad, regularly used apps and news appearing on the Search screen, and an improved Siri and new dedicated news app.
But before you get the chance to explore all that, there’s a few things you need to tick off so you’re ready for the download.
The mobile device market moves at a breakneck pace, so how “in-date” your device might be is constantly up for question. To clear it up, these are the devices iOS 9 is compatible with:
iPhone 4s, iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus.
iPad 2, iPad 3rd generation, iPad 4th generation, iPad Air, iPad Air 2, iPad mini, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3.
iPod Touch 5th and 6th generation.
Of course, the new iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPad mini 4 and iPad Pro will all ship with iOS 9 when they launch.
It is also worth noting that if you own one of the older devices on that list – the likes of the iPhone 4s and iPad 2, you could see some real dip in battery life as your devices were built three years before this software was launched, so they aren’t completely natural bedfellows.
On iPad, users should also note that only the iPad Air 2 will be able to utilise the multi-tasking and picture-in-picture features.
A key part of the upgrading process, just in case anything should go awry, there are two main ways users can back up all the data on their device. The first is to use iCloud, though this will depend on how much content you have on your iPhone or iPad, and how much iCloud space you have.
You can buy more from Apple, and the nature of iCloud means you can restore from any device, at any time as long as you have an internet connection. In addition, if you’re using iCloud already it backs up your device nightly when you plug it in to charge. So a lot of the legwork has been done for you.
The alternative is to use iTunes, but this requires a little more planning as you have to plug in and sync your device to a Mac.
When the moment comes and you can update, to confirm the download you’ll need your iCloud log-in details and your device’s passcode. Have these to hand and you’ll be fine.
It’s also worth noting that given demand on Apple servers on launch day, updates can take well over an hour to complete in some cases. It’s also best to have your device connected to a power source when you begin.
