The new version of the OS brings lots of new features — including Apple’s brand new Maps app, deep integration with Facebook and enhancements to Siri.
As with iOS 5, Apple is making the the update available as an over-the-air (OTA) download. If you don’t have access to the download now, check again in a few minutes.
Users will also have the option of upgrading from within iTunes, if you prefer that method.
- Download the latest version of iTunes 10.7 — This will add iOS 6 compatibility to your software
- Back up your photos and important files. Even if you use iCloud, consider doing a full backup in iTunes, just in case.
- If you don’t already have a copy of your contacts and calendars on your Mac or PC, go ahead and back those up too.
- Find your power. Apple won’t let you update your device if you don’t have a minimum amount of power. The updates are fairly large, at over 500MB per device — so go ahead and plug into some power before starting the update.
Are you able to download iOS 6? Let us know how your upgrade is progressing!
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iPad Siri
The iPad has Siri!
Set Up
Finalizing iOS 6's setup process.
Apple Maps
We bid Google Maps adieu and say hello to Apple Maps!
Directions
Turn by Turn driving directions.
Turn by Turn
Turn by Turn walking directions.
New 3D Maps
Check out this beautiful 3D photo-realistic view of Apple's headquarters in Cupertino.
Maps Go Nuts
As you can see, the 3D mapping view hasn't been rendered for all parts of the world. New York City is a bit of a mess.
Info on Maps
This is the info pane for a saved address or location.
Transit Options
Right now, there aren't any Transit apps linked from the App Store, but this will change before the final version ships.
Privacy
This privacy settings pane is a new feature in iOS 6.
Sync With Facebook
Users now have the option of linking their Facebook accounts with iOS 6.
Facebook Options
Users
can link their Facebook accounts with iOS 6 without having to
incorporate all of the features. Some, such as contacts and events, can
be toggled on or off.
Facebook Updates
Sending a Facebook update from the iOS Photos app.
Share With Friends
The privacy options can be controlled within a post, just like with the official Facebook for iOS apps.
Facebook Permissions Request
Apps can request permission to access your Facebook account credentials.
Facebook App Authorization
Users can see why an app wants permission to access Facebook information.
Siri for the iPad
Siri for iPad works exactly as you would expect.
Siri Posts to Facebook
Siri can now post to Facebook in iOS 6.
Siri iMessage
Siri can also send text message, iMessages and Tweet in iOS 6.
Safari Updates
The new "Share" button in Safari in iOS 6 is more visual and has more options, including Facebook sharing.
Photo Stream
Users can now share photos to selected friends or family using private Photo Streams.
Photo Comment
Users can comment on photos shared to them within a Photo Stream.
Mail Signature Updates
Mail finally allows users to have per-mailbox signatures.
App Updates
The App Store has been totally redesigned. This is the new update screen.
App Descriptions
Apps also now have Cover-flow like features, similar to how iBooks works now.
App Store: Top Charts
This is the newly reconfigured chart layout in the App Store in iOS 6.
Music Store
As with the App Store, the iTunes Music store has received a big overhaul.
iTunes Movies and TV
The movies and TV section has also received a redesign.
iBooks Store
The iBooks Store now better matches the App Store and iTunes Store.
FaceTime Over 3G/4G
FaceTime now works over 3G or 4G.
