iOS 15: Release Date, Features, and Supported Devices
Apple has just announced its newest iOS update, iOS 15, during its annual WWDC developer conference. This update is set to bring a ton of new features, improvements, and optimizations to Apple’s mobile operating system. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about iOS 15, including its release date, its features, and its supported devices.
Release Date
iOS 15 is set to be released in the fall of 2021, likely around the same time as the iPhone 13. As usual, the update will be available for free on all eligible devices.
Features
iOS 15 comes with a plethora of new features and improvements, with many of them focused on enhancing the user experience and improving the underlying technology. Here are some of the most notable features:
1. FaceTime upgrades: FaceTime will now include spatial audio, a new grid view, portrait mode, and the ability to share FaceTime links to schedule calls with more people.
2. Notifications redesign: Notifications are now grouped together intelligently and include a notification summary that can be scheduled at any time of day. Additionally, users can set a status to let others know when they’re busy.
3. Focus modes: Focus modes allow users to customize their phone’s settings based on the task they’re doing or the time of day. For example, there’s a Work mode that reduces distractions and emphasizes specific apps, and a Sleep mode that helps users wind down for bed.
4. Live Text: This new feature allows users to select and interact with text within images. It’s essentially OCR for images, and it works with both live camera feed and with photos already in the camera roll.
5. Maps overhaul: Apple Maps now includes more detailed information for buildings and landmarks, better transit directions, and an improved driving experience that includes augmented reality directions.
6. Safari redesign: Safari now features a new tab design that makes it easier to switch between tabs, a new tab groups feature that lets users manage tabs more effectively, and more privacy-focused features.
7. Improved Siri: Siri now works entirely on the device, meaning all audio processing will be done locally. This improves response time and privacy, and will also allow Siri to work even when the device is offline.
Supported Devices
iOS 15 will be available on the following devices:
– iPhone 6s and later
– iPhone SE (1st generation) and later
– iPod touch (7th generation)
– iPad mini 4 and later
– iPad Air 2 and later
– iPad 5th generation and later
– iPad Pro (all models)
Overall, iOS 15 looks like a significant update that will bring a ton of new features and improvements to Apple’s mobile devices. From FaceTime upgrades to a redesigned Safari, there’s a lot to look forward to. As usual, Apple is committed to supporting older devices, meaning even some of the earliest iPhones and iPads will be able to enjoy these new features.