The feverishly-anticipated iOS 12 mobile operating system is now available to download on almost all iPhones and iPads right now.
After it was first revealed back in June, Apple fans have been desperately waiting for this blockbuster upgrade to go live and tonight it finally has.
This major release includes a whole host of new features including new Group FaceTime plus and updates to the Messages and Photos app.
There’s also a new addition called Screen Time which can monitor how long you are spending on your phone and which apps are taking up most of your time.
Notifications can be controlled more easily in iOS 12 with a simple setting able stop them for a certain time in the day and a total block when you are in bed.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
If you own an iPhone X you’ll be treated to some new Animojis – ghost, koala, tiger, and T. rex – and another animated emoji is joining the party.
Memojis are interactive characters that can be created to look like anyone you want.
These animations can then be sent to friends using the Messages app.
Finally, there’s some good news for anyone with an older device as Apple says its iOS 12 update will offer improved performance.
HOW TO UPGRADE TO iOS 12
Apple has now officially revealed that its iOS 12 update is available to download.
You can also check if your iPhone or iPad is ready for the update by tapping Settings > General > Software Update.
If iOS 12 is available on your device you should then see an option to upgrade.
This update can take a while so make sure you don’t need to use your phone for anything important before hitting the download button.
HOW TO GET YOUR DEVICE READY?
Before you update you should make sure your iPhone/iPad is fully charged or you are near a plug.
It’s also worth checking you have some free storage available on your device as this is often needed before an installation can take place.
Finally, Apple always advises backing up your iPhone or iPad before installing any new updates.
You can either backup to the iCloud or plug your iPhone into your PC to make sure any important data is stored and saved.
WILL MY iPHONE/IPAD BE COMPATIBLE?
Although Apple has worked hard to include as many devices as possible, this latest operating system isn’t compatible with all iPhone and iPad models.
Sadly, if you own an older device, such as the iPhone 5c, you’ll have to stick with your current OS.
Here’s a full list of compatible products:
iPHONE – iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s
iPAD – iPad 12.9‑inch iPad Pro, 10.5‑inch iPad Pro, 9.7‑inch iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad 5th generation, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2.
iPOD – iPod touch 6th generation