Here comes iOS 7

Apple's latest software update gets released today

a woman

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Internet lines will be buzzing later today as Apple's (NASDAQ: AAPL) iOS 7 upgrade is released, and millions of users download the latest update for their iPhones and iPads.

It's been hailed as a new beginning for the technology giant. The new operating system has a cleaner look than its predecessors, and has been described by Apple CEO Tim Cook as "the biggest change to iOS since the introduction of the iPhone".

The new operating system was officially unveiled in June, but will be available for download today, meaning Australian users may be able to get hold of the update later this evening. Apple hasn't officially stated when the update will be available, but from previous releases it could be tomorrow before Australians can experience the new iOS.

Only the latest model iPhones, iPads and iPods will receive the new update, starting from the iPhone 4, iPad 2 and the latest generation iPod.

The new software has been designed to make the iPhone screen appear bigger, as it's currently dwarfed by smartphones from Samsung and Sony amongst others. Gone are the 3d effects in favour of flat, colourful icons and layered design.

Among the features are a new control centre that has been added to allow users quick access to change settings, AirDrop – which allows users to share content, iTunes Radio, smarter multi-tasking and a makeover of the camera app, although only the latest iPhone 5S will have full access to all the new camera features. That's only a small list of all the new features, but for most users should be worth the upgrade.

An important point worth noting is to make sure you make a backup of your phone, before updating, just in case something goes wrong during the upgrade. If you're not sure how to, Gizmodo has written a guide on how to backup your phone.

Foolish takeaway

This Fool will be eagerly awaiting the release to see whether the hype was worth it – Apple has already come in for criticism for a lack of more innovative features.

Looking for a dividend-paying stock outside of the banks? Discover The Motley Fool's favourite income idea for 2013-2014 in our brand-new, FREE research report, including a full investment analysis! Simply click here for your FREE copy of "The Motley Fool's Top Dividend Stock for 2013-2014."

More reading


Motley Fool writer/analyst Mike King doesn't own shares in any companies mentioned.

More on ⏸️ Investing

Close up of baby looking puzzled
Retail Shares

What has happened to the Baby Bunting (ASX:BBN) share price this year?

It's been a volatile year so far for the Aussie nursery retailer. We take a closer look

Read more »

woman holds sign saying 'we need change' at climate change protest
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that invest in companies fighting climate change

If you want to shift some of your investments into more ethical companies, exchange-traded funds can offer a good option

Read more »

a jewellery store attendant stands at a cabinet displaying opulent necklaces and earrings featuring diamonds and precious stones.
⏸️ Investing

The Michael Hill (ASX: MHJ) share price poised for growth

Investors will be keeping an eye on the Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ) share price today. The keen interest…

Read more »

ASX shares buy unstoppable asx share price represented by man in superman cape pointing skyward
⏸️ Investing

The Atomos (ASX:AMS) share price is up 15% in a week

The Atomos (ASX: AMS) share price has surged 15% this week. Let's look at what's ahead as the company build…

Read more »

Two people in suits arm wrestle on a black and white chess board.
Retail Shares

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX:TPW) share price stack up against Nick Scali (ASX:NCK)?

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX: TPW) share price stack up against rival furniture retailer Nick Scali Limited (ASX:…

Read more »

A medical researcher works on a bichip, indicating share price movement in ASX tech companies
Healthcare Shares

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since its IPO

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since the Polynovo (ASX: PNV) competitor listed on the ASX in July.…

Read more »

asx investor daydreaming about US shares
⏸️ How to Invest

How to buy US shares from Australia right now

If you have been wondering how to buy US shares from Australia to gain exposure from the highly topical market,…

Read more »

⏸️ Investing

Why Fox (NASDAQ:FOX) might hurt News Corp (ASX:NWS) shareholders

News Corporation (ASX: NWS) might be facing some existential threats from its American cousins over the riots on 6 January

Read more »