Apple’s software chief Craig Federighi introduces iOS 12 at WWDC
iPhone and iPad users can download the public beta for Apple’s new iOS 12 operating software from today, with the final version set to follow later this year.
Announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, iOS 12 is designed to significantly improve the performance of older devices and to help users who want to cut down the amount of time they spend on their smartphones.
The beta programme allows users to trial an incomplete version of the software, so that Apple can iron out any bugs before the global launch later this year. As such, some features may be missing and system performance is likely to be more inconsistent than the final version.
Here’s what we know about iOS 12 and where to download the beta:
How do you download it?
To get the beta, iPhone and iPad users need to head to beta.apple.com and sign up using their Apple ID account information, says CNet.
After signing up, users have to agree to Apple’s terms and conditions before registering their portable device. Once that is done, users are given a link to the beta, which is then automatically installed on their device.
As with any software update, Apple recommends backing up data on the device first in case there is a bug or glitch.
What’s new in iOS 12?
One of the standout features is that iOS 12 should greatly speed up the performance of older iPhones.
Apple’s earlier handsets sometimes slow down with software updates, but iOS 12 is tipped to boost the time it takes to launch an app by up to 40%, and the camera mode by up to 70%, The Sun reports.
Other new additions include a feature that allows users to set time limits for each app, The Verge says. Once the set limit has been reached, iOS 12 will show a “time’s up” message in the centre of the screen.
Although more time can then be requested on the app, it is hoped that the feature will help users reduce their smartphone use.
Apple has also improved the accuracy of its voice assistant Siri, and introduced more customisation options for animated emojis, MacRumors adds.
When does the final version launch?
No official release date for the final version has been announced as yet.
However, Apple often launches its latest software shortly after its annual smartphone product conference. This usually takes place in September or October, so expect iOS 12 to launch around then.
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