NEWS ANALYSIS: Apple's iOS 6 is now available for download to later generation iPhones and iPads. But potential users should carefully consider a number of factors before deciding to upgrade to the new operating system.
It's
official: Apple's iOS 6 became generally available at 1 p.m. on Sept. 19. With
its release, many Apple users are wasting no time in downloading the latest
version of the company's mobile operating system.
And why not? Apple's operating system comes with more than 200 improvements, including a
better Siri and Passbook, and offers the best security yet. For consumers and
enterprise users alike, it looks to be a great option.
However, not everyone will jump at the chance to
download
iOS 6 right after its release. The corporate world, especially, is loath to
switch to new operating systems before thoroughly testing them. Despite many consumers
abiding love for the platform, not all iPhone owners want to disrupt their existing
mobile device configuration for something new. To some folks, they'll get
around to iOS 6 when they have the time or when they really need to.
There are factors that will likely convince many individual and companies not to rush
into upgrading to OS 6. The following factors might also help them keep in mind
the many things they should do before they decide to upgrade to Apple's latest
operating system.
Read on to learn more:
1. Google Maps is gone
Before upgrading to iOS 6, remember that Google Maps won't be available any longer.
Instead, Apple has replaced the application with its own alternative, Maps.
Those who rely heavily on Google Maps might want to stick with iOS 5. Or, if
they definitely need to download iOS 6, they should download Google Maps from
the Apple's App Store.
2. YouTube is gone, too
If that's not enough, Apple has also eliminated YouTube from the operating system.
Now, users that want to watch YouTube videos will either need to go to the
browser to watch clips or download the application from the App Store. This
factor is enough to convince may users to stick with iOS 5.
3. Backup, backup, backup
Those who are
definitely
going to upgrade to iOS 6 should be sure to back up your current iOS
configuration first. Although most updates are painless, there are always cases
where the device is bricked or stops working and requires a restore. Having the
latest backup available is vastly important.
4. Be sure to upgrade iTunes
Apple has offered up iTunes version 10.7 for iOS 6 downloaders. Although the update
will be made available over-the-air, users will still need to have iTunes 10.7
installed. Keep that in mind before jumping into the great beyond with iOS 6.