Apple Officially Releases iOS 9

Apple has officially released iOS 9 for public download with new multitasking features for iPad, transit directions in Maps, a redesigned Notes app, a new News app, and Siri improvements.

“iOS 9 is packed with more intelligence throughout, and delivers big updates to the apps customers use most — Maps supports public transit, a redesigned Notes app provides great new ways to capture ideas, and a beautiful News app delivers content that’s personalized to your interests,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “With our new iPad features, users can take advantage of the power of iPad, working in two apps at the same time with Split View, Slide Over or Picture-in-Picture.”

How to update to iOS 9

There are two ways to update to iOS 9—an OTA (over the air) software update, or the more traditional update via iTunes. The OTA update is more desirable, because it doesn’t require a computer and can be performed right from your device. The iTunes update requires you to download the iOS 9 software file, and then apply the update. You’ll need to be connected to your computer with a USB cable in order to apply the update via iTunes.

With all of this in mind, I recommend the OTA update for those of you who want to update directly to iOS 9 from a previous version of iOS. Here’s how to perform the OTA update.

OTA Update iOS 9

Step 1: Open the Settings app

Step 2: Tap the General section

Step 3: Tap Software Update

iOS will check for update, and once it is found, you can proceed with the update.

As mentioned, you can also <strong>use iTunes</strong> and update in the traditional manner.

Step 1: Connect your device you your computer via USB

Step 2: Open iTunes

Step 3: Select your device and click the Summary section

Step 4: Click Update and iTunes will download and install iOS 9