Apple has released the new iOS 10 software for the iPhone and iPad that adds a host of new features including enhanced messaging, an all-new lock screen as well as improved Siri and Maps.
So even if you’re not buying the new iPhone 7 this week, you can still have that new iPhone feeling with your existing device with the impressive iOS 10 update.
You can install iOS 10 on your device if you’re using an iPhone 5 or later, and iPad Mini 2 or later, iPad fourth generation or later and the iPod Touch sixth generation.
OK, here’s how you do it.
Make sure your device is connected to wi-fi and also connected to power and then go to Settings > General > Software Update and you should see the iOS 10 update.
Click install and follow the onscreen instructions.
Here is a run-down of the new features you’ll find with iOS 10:
NOTIFICATIONS
The first thing you’ll notice with your iPhone now is as soon as you pick it up the screen comes to life.
This means you’ve now got time to see all of your notifications before you unlock the device.
And from here you can use 3D touch (If you have the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus) to interact and act on those notifications.
From the lock screen you can swipe left for the Today View and swipe to activate the camera.
MESSAGES
This is one of the biggest enhancements of iOS 10.
Messaging has become a lot more fun and you now have the ability to create full screen effects like balloons, confetti, laser lights and fireworks.
The actual messages can be sent with bubble effects with choices like Slam, Loud, Gentle or Invisible Ink which requires the receiver to touch the screen to reveal.
Emojis are also larger and can also be added automatically if you like.
You can also access apps within messages too if you’re trying to agree on a restaurant or a movie.
SIRI
Siri is now open to developers so they can be integrated into their apps so now you can use your voice to do things like book an Uber.
You can also search for photos with Siri and also start and stop your workout just by speaking.
And, of course, Siri will still be able to set reminders, answer questions and conduct web searches.
MAPS
Maps has also been redesigned for iOS 10 and has now been opened up to third party developers.
This means you can find where you’re going, book a restaurant, buy tickets to a movie and organise transportation all within the Maps app
Maps in iOS 10 will now also look at your calendar and suggest the best times to get going for your next appointment.
HOME APP
This is a new app with iOS 10 and it centralises all of the smart home devices that are compatible with Apple’s HomeKit.
Now you can take control of your home automation products in one place rather than diving in and out of all the different apps.
iOS 10 automatically detects compatible devices already installed in your home and places them in the Home app.
Users can set scenes and create rules so your devices can be activated together or switched on and off when you come home or leave.
Home also works with Apple TV which can become the centre of your automated home.
DELETE SOME OF APPLE’S APPS
iOS 10 allows users for the first time the option of deleting some of Apple’s default apps like Stocks, Find My Friends, Calculator, Home, iTunes Store and Voice Memos and many more.
If you change your mind down the track you can re-install them from the App Store.
