When Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) pushes iOS 8 out tomorrow, there’s bound to be some problems. But arming yourself with as much information as you can get before then should help you minimize the issues.
Prepping for iOS 8
Of course Apple hasn’t said exactly what time it will push out the download, but usually it begins pretty early in the morning. Typically consumers try to get the iOS update as soon as possible, which of course means it might take a while to successfully get through. USA Today‘s Jefferson Graham compiled a to-do list for those who want to be first line for iOS 8.
Of course the first thing is to make sure that your device is compatible with the operating system. It requires the iPhone 4S or newer, the iPad 2 or newer, or the fifth generation or newer iPod Touch.
If your device is compatible with iOS 8, then it’s important to back up everything you have stored on the phone to make sure that you don’t lose them. It’s pretty easy to do this by plugging into your computer and logging into iTunes. Another option is to use iCloud.com.
Next, make sure your device has enough room available to take the update. At least 1 gigabyte will be needed. A check of usage under the Settings section will tell you how much room you have and help you decide what to delete, if necessary.
Then all you have to do is plug the device into the charger, flip on Wi-Fi and then go to the software update under settings and just wait. Downloading the new iOS version usually takes quite a bit of time.
Best new features in iOS 8
So if you’re successful in downloading and installing iOS 8, what can you expect? BGR collected a nice list of the best new features that are coming with the new version of the mobile operating system.
Widgets are probably one of the more highly anticipated features. Android phones have had them for some time, so Apple’s playing catchup here. iOS 8 keeps them confined to the Notification Center’s Today screen though, which reduces battery drain and clutter on the device.
Interactive notifications are also coming with iOS 8. They’re sort of like temporary widgets, according to BGR. This basically means that when a notification pops up, users can simply swipe to immediately interact with the notification, like respond to a text message.
Third party keyboards are also coming, as is the Continuity feature, which tightens the Apple experience across devices. However, Continuity isn’t coming until later with the OS X Yosemite release.
