Apple iOS

iOS is an operating system for mobile devices of the American company Apple, until June 24, 2010 known as iPhone OS. The first iOS device, the iPhone, went on sale in June 2007. In 2014, support for Apple CarPlay automotive multimedia systems appeared.

By 2017, more than 1 billion iOS gadgets were sold worldwide.

iOS security

Main article: iOS security

2024

FAS: Apple must explain its position on access of Russian payment systems to iOS

The Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) believes that Apple's actions contain signs of violation of antimonopoly laws. This was announced on April 5, 2024 by the press service of the State Duma deputy RFAnton Nemkin.

According to the FAS, the company's actions contain signs of violation of antitrust laws, the agency said.

Apple needs to present a position regarding the access of Russian payment systems to contactless payments in the iOS system, the FAS said.

Thus, NFC contactless payment technology in iOS is available only for Apple Pay disabled in Russia. This makes it impossible to use contactless payment systems Mir Pay, Sber Pay, Tinkoff Pay and others on Apple devices, the department noted.

FAS sent a letter to the company about the need to submit a detailed motivated position on this issue.

Initially, the idea of ​ ​ creating separate stores of online applications or contactless payment technologies for each specific OS was a completely optimal option. But the market, as you know, is changing rapidly. And the competition between payment systems and the same app stores has long been a new norm that Apple does not want to comply with, says Anton Nemkin.

According to him, the actions of the FAS in this case are absolutely logical.

{{quote 'On the one hand, the FAS proceeds from the principles of consumer rights protection. The consumer should be able to both use the functions declared by the manufacturer and, in fact, choose the supplier of these functions, if this is provided for by law. On the other hand, these are actions aimed at protecting domestic developers. Banks quickly adapted to all market changes and offered users another convenient payment format - payment stickers. But this does not mean that the development of contactless payment systems should stop, - said Anton Nemkin. }}

Here the company can act by analogy with the permission to operate external online stores in the IOS system. Let me remind you that not so long ago the EU obliged Apple to ensure the possibility of operating third-party app stores from 2024. But ultimately, the fact of a violation will lead to another major fine for the IT giant. In my opinion, this time the company should impose a negotiable fine, as well as notify of the possibility of more drastic measures of influence. Because we will definitely not allow anyone to just pay fines and continue to violate the laws of our country. And even more so - to leave our citizens in a vulnerable position, - the deputy believes

In the EU, Apple was forced to open contactless payment on iPhone not through Apple Pay

On January 19, 2024, the European Commission announced that Apple had agreed to give third-party developers access to the NFC module on iPhone smartphones. This means that the owners of these devices will be able to use alternative mobile wallets and contactless payment services, and not just Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.

The European Commission concluded that Apple holds a dominant position in the mobile wallet market for the iOS operating system, while Apple Pay is the only solution that can access the necessary hardware and software to use NFC payment. This is said to limit competition in the market for contactless payment systems for goods and services. Amid an investigation by EU antitrust authorities, the Cupertino-based company decided to change the rules for providing access to the NFC chip in its mobile devices.

It is said that third-party developers will have at their disposal a specialized set of application programming interfaces (APIs) that will open access to NFC functions on iOS smartphones. To provide additional features and capabilities, including setting up payment apps by default, Apple will also allow developers to use the necessary authentication tools, including FaceID.

The Company undertakes to ensure fair, objective, transparent and non-discriminatory selection criteria for providing access to NFC to third parties. At the same time, developers will have to conclude a license agreement with Apple. Plus, Apple will introduce a dispute resolution mechanism, according to which any disagreements regarding the refusal to provide access to NFC functions in the iPhone will be considered by independent experts.^[1]

2022

Apple limited AirDrop wireless file sharing in iOS in China after using it in protests

In the latest version - iOS 16.1.1, released on November 9, 2022 - a window during which users can receive files from other users is limited to 10 minutes. Previous options did not limit the time, users could choose to receive files from everyone, from no one or only from their contacts.

Apple limited the AirDrop feature after the mechanism was used by protesters to distribute images to other iPhone owners.

Apple has not commented on why the change was introduced in China, but said it plans to roll out the new AirDrop setup worldwide next year. The idea is to reduce unwanted file sharing, the company said.

Fast smartphone discharge and slow search after update

At the end of September 2022, many iPhone 13 users and older began smartphones Apple to report that after updating operating system iOS to version 16, the battery life of the devices was sharply reduced.

In mid-September 2022, Apple released iOS 16 to the public, bringing significant changes to the lock screen, messages, maps and more. Within days of the release, some users faced a number of problems on their iPhones, ranging from slow system operation to battery drain.

Over the past few days, iPhone 14 Pro users have talked about specific bugs related to Apple's latest high-end iPhone models, including camera jitter, iMessage and FaceTime activation issues and more. However, there are other issues affecting the wider group of iOS 16 users, and below the Macrumors edition collected two issues based on user messages.

After a major iOS update, as a rule, the iPhone discharges the battery faster as indexing and background tasks are performed; however, some users on Twitter, MacRumors and Reddit forums report excessive battery drain days after the update.

Users report improved battery life compared to iOS 15, so the overall experience is pretty mixed. Apple recently admitted that enabling tactile feedback for the keyboard in iOS 16 could reduce battery life, so users who lack battery power can try to disable the feature if they have it on.

A more noticeable problem facing iOS 16 users is the slow running of Spotlight search. Users report that on iOS 16, downloading results to Spotlight sometimes takes up to 10 seconds, and sometimes does not load at all. According to many users, resetting all settings has significantly improved the performance of Spotlight search, but Apple has not yet released an official solution and/or bug fix.

Apple has confirmed that it is aware of some of the problems facing users, including the camera shake on the latest iPhone 14 Pro, and has promised to release an iOS 16 update before the end of September 2022. The update will include fixing camera issues, annoying copy and paste prompts, and activating iMessage and FaceTime. The update could also fix other issues users face, such as battery drain and slow Spotlight searches.^[2]

Release of iOS 16

On June 7, 2022, it became known that Apple had introduced an updated version of the operating system for the iPhone.

iOS 16 has added several features that allow you to personalize the lock screen. smartphone In addition to the set of wallpapers, widgets of the user's choice can be displayed on this screen, for example, showing the weather, upcoming events from the calendar, etc. The format of the notification view has changed.

Changes were made to the messenger application: it became possible to edit or delete sent messages, as well as mark as unread those messages to which the user wants to return. It became possible to share your screen with other users, additional functions when dictating messages and the possibility of translation: the camera of the device will be able to recognize text in photos or videos and instantly translate it.

Apple has also updated its Apple watchOS and macOS operating systems.

So, in the updated version of Apple watchOS 9, a number of functions have been added, including a fitness application that allows you to track the quality of sports, an application for tracking sleep, as well as to track the time of taking prescribed drugs.

In turn, the updated macOS has an application control system that allows the user to focus on the application or page he needs, even if many others are open at the same time.^[3].

iOS 15.5 with improved security

Apple released iOS 15.5 on May 16, 2022. In addition to several additional features, users have received more than two dozen security fixes. Some of the fixed vulnerabilities can be run remotely or through malicious websites.

Online publications and ordinary users warmly greeted iOS 15.5 - the update was successful. It did not affect battery life and did not affect the performance of the device^[4]

2021

Release of the final version of iOS 15

On September 20, 2021, Apple released the final version of the iOS 15 operating system to the public. The firmware can be installed on the company's smartphones starting with the iPhone 6S.

In iOS 15, FaceTime calls are no longer limited to Apple devices. Now on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, you can create a link and forward it so that anyone can join a FaceTime call using a web browser on an Android or Windows device. In addition, FaceTime web calls are protected by end-to-end encryption, so you don't have to worry about data security.

The design of notifications in iOS 15 has changed: it is possible to add photos of contacts for people, and app icons have become larger to make them easier to recognize. To less distract the user, the new notification summary collects non-urgent notifications and delivers them at a more convenient time, for example, in the morning or evening. Built-in intelligent features allow you to organize notifications by priority and bring the most important to the top of the list, taking into account which applications the user works with.

iOS 15 has implemented an improved algorithm for recognizing objects in photos, including text. The function is now able to make text in images interactive. Once recognized, it can be copied and pasted into a document, browser, or application. In this case, the recognition function becomes more confidential, since it does not use iCloud, and all operations are performed on the user device.

Another innovation is the Focus function. It allows you to reduce distractions and helps the user focus on important tasks. The innovation works by filtering notifications depending on what the user is busy with. In addition, the applications "Maps," "Wallet" and "Weather" have been finalized^[5]

iOS 14.4.1 Emergency Update Release

The company Apple on March 8, 2021 released an emergency update software to iOS 14.4.1 for all users. iPhone The firmware was released without prior testing, with the update released on Monday, while the company usually releases new firmware on Tuesdays.

Apple recommends that you install the update as soon as possible to fix a number of issues related to. According safety to experts, a vulnerability in Apple WebKit CVE-2021-1844 that fuels browser Safari can lead to arbitrary code execution.

"This vulnerability allows attackers to create content that, when processed on a device, can run its own code on it," said cybersecurity specialist Daniel Card.

As of March 8, there is no data on the exploitation of this vulnerability by hackers, but the very fact of the release of an unscheduled update suggests that Apple considers the problem quite serious.^[6]

2020

Preparation for installation of Russian software

At the end of November 2020, it became known about Apple's preparation for installing Russian software on its devices. In the beta version of the iOS 14.3 operating system, a function has appeared that, when the iPhone is first launched, prompts the user to install third-party applications. This option will allow Apple to comply with the requirements of the law on the pre-installation of domestic software for smartphones sold in the Russian Federation.

According to Izvestia, the appearance of such a function is associated with antitrust investigations against Apple in different countries. This is because iPhone and iPad users get priority access to the company's services, while other developers' apps are sidelined.

Mobile Research Group analyst Eldar Murtazin believes that Russia will become one of those countries where the new iOS feature for installing applications from third-party developers will work.

This is not quite a preset, but, nevertheless, this option allows users to immediately choose this or that software. This scenario allows you to comply with the requirements of the law, - said the expert.

At the same time, experts interviewed by the publication noted that it is still unclear how the payment system World"" will gain access to the contactless payment module in the iPhone. The fact is that Apple prohibits third-party applications from accessing this feature.

Murtazin noted that Apple has recently been quite actively interacting with Russian departments. Thus, the company agreed with Roszdravnadzor to include the ECG function in the Apple Watch. Apple also received permission from the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (SCRF) to use the 6240-8236.8 MHz band to test UWB technology, an improved analogue of Bluetooth. These examples prove Apple's interest in the Russian market and intention to develop on it, the analyst is sure.^[7]

Apple prepared for the installation of Russian software

In the closed beta version of iOS, experts have discovered a function that, when the iPhone is first launched, prompts the user to install third-party applications. This became known on November 26, 2020.

This option will allow Apple to comply with the requirements of the law on the pre-installation of Russian software for the sale of smartphones in our country. But the question of access to the Mir payment system to the contactless payment module in the iPhone remains open. Apple still does not allow third-party payment systems to be installed on its products. But experts believe that soon everything will change, since any foreign operator, including Apple, is interested in operating its own payment systems in the Russian Federation.

This function was discovered by the specialists of the resource 9to5Mac in the beta version of iOS 14.3, which Apple released on November 12. It is designed for developers and is not available to regular iPhone and iPad users.

This operating system (OS) has at least one unannounced function so far. With its help, the iPhone invites the user to install a number of applications from third-party developers from the App Store at the first launch. At the same time, the option to install third-party applications will be able to use the owners of gadgets only in some countries.

Pre-installation ON is part of the all-Russian strategy aimed at import substitution the development of its own digital products. Foreign programs are preinstalled on many technical devices, the innovation will create more balanced conditions for competition between Russian developments and foreign ones. software

The selected programs will be installed on smartphones, tablets, TVs with Smart TV function, laptops and personal computers. These are products already selected by Russian users, that is, Apple, which has the largest number of unique users^[8].

Apple unveils iOS 14

On June 22, 2020, Apple unveiled an updated iOS operating system. One of the main innovations in iOS 14 is due to the presence of a built-in translator between 11 languages, including Russian. This tool will facilitate communication with foreigners.

The "Picture in picture" mode has appeared - at the same time as watching the video, you can use another application.

 BApple Maps has a feature of recommendations and guides, as well as support for bike paths, taking into account traffic and stairs data.

Apple has completely redesigned the home screen and widgets can now be placed on pages, which are an extended app icon with more information. For example, the Weather icon will show the weather on the street, and the calendar will show planned events. There are also so-called smart widgets, on which information from several programs is fixed and changes depending on the context.

Voice assistant Siri has learned to decrypt voice directly on the device, that is, messages will decrypt faster and without the Internet. A separate element in the form of a circle with Siri will appear above the usual interface. The Siri service began to work 20 times faster, the manufacturer says.

iPhone with iOS 14 or later firmware versions can be used as a key for a car. To open the car, you will need to bring the smartphone to the NFC reader. The first cars that will support the update will be the BMW fifth series. The new feature will work from 2021.

Added a service for quick access to App Clips applications. App Clip app thumbnails download in a few seconds and allow you to purchase coffee, pay for parking or perform another action, Apple said in a press release.^[9]

2019

Share of iOS devices in countries around the world

DOD recommends not installing iOS 13

On September 19, 2019, Apple officially released iOS 13 for the iPhone and iPad. While many users are rushing to update their devices, the US Department of Defense does not recommend doing so.

According to the Inc website, the US Department of Defense sent emails to its employees and partners urging them not to install iOS 13. According to the letter, the current version of the OS contains bugs and dangerous vulnerabilities. Users are advised to wait for the release of iOS 13.1, which is scheduled for release on September 24 this year. By that time, Apple will have time to eliminate all flaws and the system will become more stable and safer.

"The Department of Defense strongly recommends that you not update to avoid detected bugs in Apple iOS 13. Apple is expected to release iOS 13.1 in late September 2019 to fix vulnerabilities. Do not upgrade to iOS 13 and iPadOS until further notice due to known functional problems that could cause enterprise services to crash, "the[10] recommends[11].

Availability of iOS 13 beta 5

On July 29, 2019, iOS 13 beta 5 became available for all registered developers. The update can already be installed both over the air (through a special profile) and through a computer by downloading the corresponding software file on the company's official website.

iOS 13 beta 5 innovations:

• The Share tab has been redesigned.
• In the "House" appendix, the list of available wallpapers has been expanded;
• It became possible to adjust the size of the cursor when connecting the mouse;
• Updated welcome window for setting up Siri in HomePod;
• Small visual changes in the status bar: the 3G/LTE badge was enlarged;
• During the initial configuration of the device, an interface selection window appeared (light/dark mode);
• Screenshots are now taken with rounded edges (only on iPhone X and newer);
• The volume slider received additional divisions. Each change in sound level is now accompanied by tactile feedback.

What issues have been fixed in iOS 13 beta 5

• Fixed issue preventing enterprise profile installation;
• Eliminated graphical errors that occur when working with Spotlight;
• Fixed an issue where the user could not attach an image in the Mail application;
• Improved stability of third-party applications (WhatsApp, Instagram);
• Fixed a problem where the user could not enter a PIN on the setup screen;
• Fixed numerous bugs, improved overall system optimization.

iOS 13 beta 5 bugs:

• The multitasking menu may display previously closed applications;
• The "Messages" synchronization function may not work correctly;
• The Locator application is unstable. The Notify on Detection option is still unavailable;
• AirPods may lose connection if the "Announce Messages with Siri" feature is activated;
• There are still untranslated elements in the operating system;
• The search in the Notes application does not work correctly;
• The keyboard still does not support Russian in QuickPath mode.

Final version of iOS 12.4

On July 23, 2019, it became known that Apple, as part of three other releases, released the final version of iOS 12.4, which it tested for more than three months. The main innovation of the update was support for the Apple Card service, but Cupertino did not limit itself only to it and added a number of innovations to the operating system.

Despite the fact that iOS 12.4 is a so-called functional update, it does not contain as many innovations as we would like. However, the existence of some of them can seriously make life easier for users.

• Apple Card Support
• Wireless data transfer from one iPhone to another
• Editions in Apple News + are available for offline reading in the My Magazines section
• The function of deleting the history of downloaded publications in Apple News +
• It became possible to add posts you like to the top line in Apple News +
• Walkie-Talkie support is back
• HomePod support in Singapore and Japan

The wireless data transfer function is especially noted. It allows you to directly transfer data and settings from one iPhone to another using a Wi-Fi connection. Previously, such an operation was possible only when the last model was initially activated.

iOS 12.4 supports:

• iPhone 5s
• iPhone SE
• iPhone 6/6 Plus
• iPhone 6s/6s Plus
• iPhone 7/7 Plus
• iPhone 8/8 Plus
• iPhone X
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS/XS Max
• iPad mini 2
• iPad mini 3
• iPad mini 4
• iPad mini 5
• iPad Air
• iPad Air 2
• iPad Air 3
• iPad 5
• iPad 6
• iPad Pro 9,7`
• iPad Pro 12.9 '(all generations)
• iPad Pro 10,5`
• iPad Pro 11`
• iPod Touch (6th generation)
• iPod Touch (7th generation)^[12]

The release of iOS 13 - 7 major innovations

June 3, 2019 Apple introduced a new version of its mobile. operating system iOS According to the developers, iOS 13 has increased the speed of some features. For example, face recognition the system works by 30%, application and system updates "weigh" 50% less than the previous one, and programs run twice as fast. The main innovations of iOS 13 are as follows:

Dark theme

Dark color scheme is used throughout the OS and in built-in applications. This mode is convenient for viewing content in low light. Third-party developers can add dark mode to their applications.

Sign in with Apple

This feature allows you to log in to third-party platforms through your Apple account. Google has had a similar system for a long time. In iOS 13, Siri's voice has become more natural, and Siri's fast teams support suggestions of automation templates with which you can customize action sets for frequently recurring situations, such as going to work or going to the gym. 

New "Reminders"

In the Reminders application, it became possible to mark other users - they will receive a notification in iMessage. There is also a Quick Input panel for adding a task.

Swipes in the keyboard

In iOS 13, users can type without taking their finger off the screen. Improved text editing capabilities: scrolling through documents, moving the cursor and selecting text are now faster and more accurate, Apple says. 

New photo and video tools

In iOS 13, you can flip the video in the gallery, the function of automatic video playback has appeared. Also added are advanced video editing capabilities and the function of automatically hiding duplicates of photos.

"Health"

The Health app  offers regular hearing testing capabilities, as well as new ways to track, visualize and predict your menstrual cycle.

Geolocation

In the updated OS, permission to share location data can only be given once. iOS 13 will send reports on how and which applications use this data.^[13]

Apple and SAP unveil augmented reality software development tools

On May 7, 2019, Apple and SAP announced the expansion of cooperation in the enterprise solutions market. The new agreement involves the release of joint augmented reality software development tools.

As part of the partnership, the Apple Core ML machine learning library integrates with the SAP Cloud Platform SDK for iOS. Using the capabilities of Apple Core ML, companies will be able to create applications on the SAP Leonardo platform.

In the new phase of cooperation between Apple and SAP, the emphasis is on augmented reality. Companies will be able to use this technology iPhone iPad in and to solve various business problems, such as repairing equipment or managing inventory of goods in warehouses and store shelves, the agency reports. Reuters

Augmented reality and machine learning will be a key tool for providing the right information to the right person at the right time, Apple CEO Tim Cook said at the SAP Sapphire conference.

In May 2019, the integration of Apple and SAP software was expanded. The main innovations are as follows:^[14]

• Machine learning models can be downloaded to iPhone and iPad to run on mobile devices without an Internet connection. They will be able to dynamically update when connected to SAP Cloud Platform;

• SAP mobile applications for SuccessFactors, Concur and SAP Asset Manager have built-in iOS support. It will also be implemented in a wider range of products, starting with Ariba solutions;

• SAP will increase the number of programs with built-in computer support. operating system macOS 

These steps give SAP "direct access to everything good on the iOS platform, and Apple devices to the rich business environment that SAP has around the world," said Stratix spokesman (SAP partner) Marco Nielsen.

iOS 12.1.4 release. The problem with the network connection has not been fixed

On February 12, 2019, it became known that Apple has released an update to iOS 12.1.4 for its mobile operating system, designed to fix a number of problems. In particular, the infamous vulnerability in FaceTime was fixed, which allowed secretly spying on iPhone owners, as well as two serious zero-day vulnerabilities in frameworks.

The update was supposed to improve work with gadgets, but iOS 12.1.4 causes problems connecting to the Internet to both through and Wi-Fi through the telecom operator, and in some cases the iPhone even stopped recognizing SIM the card. These problems have plagued users since the very first release of iOS 12, and with each release, updates do not get better. For February 2019, the problem even affected those who were lucky enough to avoid it last time.

Users who have installed the update report problems with voice reminders, photos, e-mail, Touch ID and AirPods^[15].

2018

With the release of iOS 12.1.2, the iPhone stopped connecting to cellular networks

On December 24, 2018, it became known that Apple smartphones stopped "seeing" the cellular network after the release of the next version of the iOS firmware. The problem has become widespread - around the world, users cannot call and access the Internet. The patch that fixes the defect has not yet come out.

Apple has released iOS 12.1.2 firmware designed to eliminate minor flaws in the previous release. However, the users who installed the update began to complain about the problems with communication that appeared - smartphones stopped connecting to cellular networks, sending messages and processing incoming outgoing calls, according to TechSpot.

Ironically, the iOS 12.1.2 update was supposed to eliminate similar problems with the iPhone in Turkey, but in the end, users from all over the world began to complain about the impossibility of making calls. Initially, communication failed only on models of the 2018 line, and as of December 2018, complaints began to come from owners of devices two and three years ago.

The problem that has arisen in the iPhone does not have certain symptoms: some users may lose access only to LTE networks, someone cannot call at all, but at the same time they can send text messages, and someone has everything, even mobile Internet, but exclusively in second generation networks (GSM). At the same time, complaints about the operation of Wi-Fi from users who have installed the iOS 12.1.2 update also come, therefore, the problem affects not only the cellular modem.

As of the first half of December 24, 2018, Apple did not respond in any way to the massive negative reviews of the owners, smartphones iPhone a wave of which swept the Twitter official Apple technical support forum. Representatives of the company are still limited to banal recommendations, including a hard reset of the device, turning on and off the flight mode and resetting to factory settings. The latter method, we note, inevitably entails the complete loss of all personal, in the data stored memory of the device.

Apple is reportedly already working on an iOS 12.1.3 update, in which a massive problem with connecting to wireless and cellular networks can be solved. As of December 24, 2018, the firmware is not available for download and installation, and the updates and changes contained in it are not disclosed. iPhone owners who have not yet had time to update iOS 12.1.2 are advised to wait until Apple releases a stable firmware version that will not have such serious flaws.

For Apple, this is not the first firmware in December 2018 with integrated bugs associated with the work of smartphones in cellular networks. The iOS 12.1.1 update in some cases deprived users of the ability to connect to fourth-generation cellular networks, as a result of which they had to access the Internet through slow 3G networks.

Apple responded to users' dissatisfaction in this case more quickly, promising to soon release an update that fixes the specified defect. Before its release, users were offered all the same options for solving the problem - a return to factory settings and a hard reboot.

This update was supposed to be an update to iOS 12.1.2, which, instead of fixing the situation, aggravated it many times over. Meanwhile, the very first stable iOS 12, released in September 2018, did not contain such serious bugs - on the contrary, compared to iOS in 11,2017, it was faster and more reliable.^[16]

iOS 12 - the fastest OS for iPhone and iPad - available for download

On September 17, 2018, device users iOS got the opportunity to download the final version operating system of iOS 12. It can be considered the fastest platform for mobile gadgets. Apple

According to the manufacturer, applications in iOS 12 launch 40% faster than the previous version of the system, and the superiority in keyboard and camera operation reaches 50% and 70%, respectively.

According to user reviews of the preliminary version of iOS 12, the new operating system really improves performance, including on the outdated iPhone 5s and iPad Air of the first generation.

True, as the authors of the iAppleBytes YouTube channel found out, the battery life of devices running iOS 12 decreased by 5-10% compared to iOS 11.4.1.

The main innovations in the updated iOS are centered around the three tools "Screen Time," "Grouping Notifications" and "Do Not Disturb." The first of them provides detailed statistics on the use of devices.

Do Not Disturb mode in iOS 12 has new features. If earlier, with the established schedule, sounds were turned off, but the screen lit up when receiving notifications, now the mode completely blocks incoming activity and allows you not to be distracted by your smartphone at all.

In addition, temporarily enabling this mode now has more flexibility: you can activate Do Not Disturb for one hour, until the evening, until the end of the current event in the calendar, or until you leave the current location.

In iOS 12, notifications are grouped by application and topic: several notifications from one application are combined into a chain that must be expanded by touching the screen.

Head assistant Apple Siri offers actions based on user behavior and the context of events. For example, the service can call a colleague if the user is late for a meeting and wish a family member a happy birthday.

In addition, it became possible to search for photos not only in places, but also in keywords, memories, photo effects.^[17]

Emergence of self-limiting functions

In June 2018, Apple announced the addition of a self-limiting feature to iOS 12. Thanks to it, users will be able to ease their dependence on gadgets.

We are talking about the Screen Time section. It displays detailed information about the duration of work with applications and sites, helping to better control the use of the device. Daily and weekly activity reports include total time spent in specific applications, application usage by category, number of notifications received, and frequency of inclusion iPhone or. iPad

App Limits will give users the ability to set a time limit for each application. When the user reaches this limit, the application sends a notification.

Downtime mode allows you to determine the time period during which users will not be able to use their smartphone at all - for example, while sleeping. After activating Downtime, gadget owners will not receive notifications, and will not be able to use any applications on the device, unless they are marked as Always Allowed, Futurism reports.

In addition, Screen Time provides parents with access to their children's reports directly on their iOS devices through "Family Access" on iCloud, and also provides an opportunity to limit the time when a child can use a phone or tablet, for example, banning its use at night.

After the announcement of iOS 12 and the function, Apple CEO Tim Cook admitted his dependence on the iPhone in an interview with CNN. According to him, he uses a smartphone more often than he should. At the same time, the general director did not specify which applications he uses most often. He stressed that the device itself does not cause dependence - it is caused by what users do with it.^[18]

iOS 12

Apple, as part of the annual 2018 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2018), announced the iOS 12 mobile operating system in its first beta for developers.

The company also first showed the updated macOS 10.14 Mojave OS for Mac desktop systems, and announced the availability of new versions of the OS for smartwatches - watchOS 5, and TVs - tvOS 12. All updates are available to registered users on the Apple developer portal.

As part of the presentations on the first day of the conference, Apple also shared fresh statistics on its achievements. Thus, the key announcements of WWDC 2018 boiled down to software updates, while the main updates to the company's gadgets and devices will traditionally take place in the fall.

The mobile operating system iOS 12 at WWDC 2018 was presented by Apple Vice President of Software Development Craig Federighi. According to him, the new version of the mobile OS allows you to "double the performance" of Apple smartphones and tablets, while providing better speed and "response to incoming signals."^[19].

This will especially affect the iPhone and iPad models of older releases, more affected by the decline in performance after the release of new versions of iOS. The update, Federighi said, will be available for all Apple products, making the launch of iOS 12 the biggest event ever.

The new mobile OS will also be useful for users of recently released iPhone models: for example, applications on the iPhone 6 Plus with iOS 12 will launch up to 40% faster. After the software update, the camera's efficiency should increase by 70%, Federighi said.

In general, the acceleration of work will be noted by users of smartphones from iPhone 5s to iPhone X (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), users of most iPads (second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, first-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, 10.5-inch iPad Pro, 9.7-inch iPad Pro, 9.6-inch iPad, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, fifth-generation iPad, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2), as well as the sixth-generation iPod touch.

Apple representatives also said that they did not change the location of Control Center on the iPhone X instead in iOS 12, they moved gesture control functions from the iPhone X to the iPad.

Much attention was paid to the story about the ARKit 2 platform, which develops the current developments of the company. A new type of Animoji called Memoji was also introduced. They differ from the original emojis in greater similarity with human faces, which can be customized by changing different features of the face. " Memoji and Animoji are also added to FaceTime group chats.

iOS 11.4 will protect iPhone from USB intrusion

Apple has added a new security feature to iOS that blocks data from the device via USB if it has not been used for seven days. This function makes useless many of the techniques used by law enforcement agencies to extract data from devices of suspects^[20].

The first to discover a new security feature called USB Restricted Mode was discovered by Elcomsoft researchers during an analysis of the iOS 11.4 code. In this mode, the device can still be charged via USB, but data transfer becomes impossible if it has been locked for seven days. When the user unlocks the device himself, the mode will turn off.

"USB restriction mode" will allow the user to protect the privacy of their data and prevent them from being received from the device without his consent. As a rule, having seized the suspect's iPhone, law enforcement officers are forced to use a special exploit to unlock it. If there is none at the time of seizure, law enforcement officers simply register the device as material evidence and put it on the shelf until an exploit appears.

Now, thanks to the new function, it will be impossible to obtain data from a seized device that has been idle for seven days. The Lightning port will lose the ability not only to transmit data, but also to recognize the computer to which the device is connected. However, if the owner himself stops using his iPhone for a week (for example, leaves him at home while on vacation), and then unlocks him with a password, data transfer will work as if nothing had happened.

Upgrading the OS to version 11.3

On March 30, 2018, the company Apple announced the availability of a major mobile update operating system iOS to version 11.3.

According to the developers, the key function of the OS11.3 version is the "Batteries and Performance" section, which displays the state of the iPhone battery and reports the need for its service. These features are available on iPhone 6 and higher smartphones in Settings - > Battery.

Users will also be able to see if power management is enabled, dynamically manages maximum performance, and prevents unexpected battery drain. In version 11.3, users can enable and disable this feature. It is available in Settings - > Battery on iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

In addition, iOS 11.3 has improved charging control. iPad There is support for battery charging when connecting the iPad to a power source for a long time, for example, when used in kiosks, retail systems or stored in charging trolleys-cabinets, specified in Apple.

In iOS version 11.3, augmented reality technologies are available with advanced capabilities. In addition to horizontal surfaces such as tables and chairs, virtual objects can appear on vertical surfaces such as walls and doors. Recognition of complex shaped surfaces, such as round tables, has also been improved.

Thanks to computer vision technologies for searching and recognizing two-dimensional objects - signs, posters and drawings, it is possible to create augmented reality. When looking at the real world through the camera, the resolution has become 50% higher, autofocus adds additional clarity, Apple noted.

According to the developer, the iOS 11.3 update added Animoji for iPhone X users: they can appear as a lion, bear, dragon or skull. The A11 Bionic processor and TrueDepth camera record more than 50 facial muscle movements - users can record and send Animoji voice messages and create karaoke videos from Animoji.

Business Chat in beta provides users with the ability to communicate directly with companies, including by asking questions to support, and make purchases through Apple Pay. As of March 2018, the feature is only available to users from the United States and Canada.

When searching for stores, hotels, banks and other companies through the Spotlight, Safari or Map search, users will be able to contact these companies directly from the Messages app on an iPhone or iPad, and then continue the conversation on an Apple Watch or Mac. All contact details will remain under the user's control: by default, they are not transferred to third parties, Apple noted.

Health Records allows health center patients to view their medical records from a variety of sources directly on iPhones, including test results, prescribed medications, health status details and more. Health Records data is always encrypted and password protected. The feature is only available to US users.

Apple emphasized that advanced data and privacy information is available to iOS 11.3 users. Each time Apple requests access to personal information to enable certain features, secure Apple's services, or adapt iOS for user convenience, a privacy icon with details appears on the screen.

In the updated version of the mobile OS, the Apple Music app streams video clips without ads. Subscribers can watch the latest novelties, music classics and clips of their favorite artists in new video clip playlists.

Apple News has made it easier to display the most important videos of the day: they are located in the "Video" group in the "For You" section and in the "Hot News" section.

For Chinese iOS users living in Beijing and Shanghai, the ability to pay for subway and bus trips via Apple Pay on iPhone and Apple Watch has been added.

Support for the Apple TV app also appeared Brazil in and. To Mexico These two countries will be added to those countries where the Apple TV application is already available: the USA,,,, Australia,, and Great Britain Germany. To Canada Norway France Sweden

Brazil will also have Siri support on the 4th generation Apple TV 4K and Apple TV. Users can find and launch movies, TV shows, songs, applications and other materials using only their voice.

HomeKit software authentication provides developers with the ability to add HomeKit support to existing accessories while maintaining security and privacy.

Support for Advanced Mobile Location (AML) technology allows you to automatically send user location data when calling emergency services in countries where AML is supported.

In addition, the performance of searching the Contacts program for users with long notes has been improved, the Handoff and Universal Clipboard functions have been improved when both devices in use are on the same Wi-Fi network. Fixed an error that could prevent incoming calls from taking the screen out of sleep mode, fixed an error that could slow down or prevent the playback of Visual Answering Machine messages, fixed an issue that prevented the opening of a web link in Messages, fixed a number of other errors.^[21]

2017

Developer version 11.2.5 beta 1 released 

On December 14, 2017 , Apple released iOS 11.2.5 beta 1 for authorized developers.

This is a minor update and contains no significant changes. It does not include visual innovations, additional functions. Only Apple bug fixes^[22].

OS Release 11

On September 20, 2017, the company Apple announced the availability of the version. As operating system iOS part of the changes in iOS 11 design, a set of additional features.

The commercial version of iOS 11 is available for free download from September 19, 2017 on all supported devices^[23].

The list of supported devices includes 22 mobile products from Apple:

• smartphones from iPhone 5s and later,
• all models iPad of Air and iPad Pro tablets,
• 5th generation iPad,
• iPad mini and later,
• 6th generation iPod touch players.

Features of the version

In this version of the OS, the Apple Pay payment service can send money between users through iMessage and with fast Touch ID identification.

Siri's personal assistant in iOS 11 received modernized voice voicing, spoke with male and female voices. Support for machine learning in Siri allows the assistant to "remember" the methods of using applications by the owner and subsequently prompt. Siri can now automatically translate English words and phrases into Chinese, French, German, Italian and Spanish.

The Files app has enhanced cloud capabilities. You can connect iCloud, Google Drive and Dropbox storage to it.

In iOS 11, the control point has been upgraded, it is configurable with the ability to add or remove various points. The iPad also displays a list of recently launched apps.

The bottom panel, where up to six apps used to be pinned, turned into Dock and became dynamic, displaying recently opened apps on the iPad, in addition to pinned ones.

Multi-window mode allows you to open applications from the Dock panel at the top of the screen as a narrow column that can be stretched on the work surface in Split View next to an already open application.

On the iPad screen in multi-window mode, you can display up to four applications, two of which are displayed in Split View format, one is displayed on the side, plus a video player.

The mode is convenient for dragging content and links between applications. Data drag and drop is available in an unopened application.

The version has tools for advanced editing of screenshots and scanning documents.

In previous versions, a computer connection was required to capture the screen of an iPad or iPhone. In iOS 11, the recording function automatically creates a video with everything that happens on the screen.

Editing "live photos" (Live Photos) based on moving pictures allows you to create photos with the effect of long exposure and "pendulum."

The standard iOS 11 keyboard has the ability to type with one hand. Symbols and characters in the QuickType keyboard are made on the same buttons, which made it possible to reduce the number of layout switches. The character changes on the button are realized by sliding the button from top to bottom.

Apple Pencil allows you to take instant recordings in PDF files, in screenshots or on the lock screen, followed by saving to Notes.

Apple has created an augmented reality technology product: ARKit allows you to point the camera at objects and add moving or shape-changing elements to the image in real time.

The App Store consists of sections:

• "Today" with a selection of the latest applications,
• interviews with developers,
• "Games"
• "Applications."

The design of the application pages has undergone a change.

iOS 11 has expanded support for HEIF image formats and HEVC video.

The Home app has support for additional accessories, including AirPlay 2 speakers, which can now be controlled using Siri.

Do Not Disturb is enabled.

The iOS 11 operating system only supports 64-bit applications. 32-bit applications on iOS 11 do not work. All 32-bit versions of the software are not available for search in the App Store, and previously downloaded ones will not be installed through "Purchases."

Release of the seventh public beta version of iOS 11

On August 28, 2017, Apple announced the release of the seventh public beta version of iOS 11. It has no differences from a similar build for developers. The main feature is that it can be installed without starting a paid account on the Apple website. To install the update, you need to register with Apple's beta testing program.^[24]

The main innovations of iOS 11 for iPhone

• The gesture to clear notifications on the lock screen does not work, and the design of the upper curtain is indistinguishable from the lock screen - it contains watches and current notifications. The bottom curtain is a single screen, and users can add new buttons to DesignCenter for quick access.
• As soon as a screenshot is taken, its thumbnail will appear in the lower left corner. Clicking on it will launch an interface with editing tools that will allow you to make notes and add notes.
• The iPhone camera has an expanded filter set, and there are three effects for editing live photos. Also, the QR code scanner is active by default.
• All documents will be collected in the Files application.
• The Storage section not only reports the amount of free and occupied memory of the device, but also gives recommendations for freeing it.
• The app store in iOS 11 has been radically changed, and the mechanics of its work have been completely rethought.
• One of the main changes in Apple Music is the ability to view popular tracks and playlists of friends.
• In iOS 11, it will be possible to communicate with Siri not only by voice, but also by text.
• Smartphones will become compatible with NFC tags, key fobs and other similar gadgets.
• 32-bit applications are incompatible with iOS 11 (also applies to iPad and iPod).

The main innovations of iOS 11 for iPad

• More icons are placed in the Dock panel, there are no application signatures, there is a separate block with three recently launched applications.
• An additional application can be opened on the screen from the Dock panel - in Split View mode it will appear with the current one on one screen, and in Slide Over mode the second application can be moved to the left. up to four applications can be opened simultaneously on the iPad screen: two in split screen mode, one on the side and a video player window.
• Now you can transfer text, photos and files from one application to another. iOS 11 allows you to drag documents one at a time or select several at once.
• The document scanning function in Notes automatically detects the document, trims the excess at the edges and straightens the image.
• QuickType keyboard. Letters, numbers, characters and punctuation are now on the same buttons, which reduces the number of layout switches. To select the desired character instead of the letter, just drag the key from top to bottom.

Beta version of iOS 11 released

On June 27, 2017, Apple announced the release of a public beta version of iOS 11. The OS is compatible with almost all smartphones and tablets running iOS.

Version 11 of the mobile OS is available for all owners of compatible devices: iPhone iPad ^[22]

iOS 11 has redesigned some features: Siri has support for text commands instead of voice commands,

• portrait mode iPhone 7 Plus works at night,
• a video recording from the screen appeared on the system.
• added a file manager "Files" for iPhone and iPad, allowing you to quickly explore the contents of local and cloud drives.

Other changes are less noticeable and affect the interface - 3D Touch integration in the settings. The final version of iOS 11 will be released in the fall of 2017. During the summer, the company plans to release several test assemblies.

Apple APFS File System

The APFS file system, introduced by Apple in March 2017, does not allow the user to name files in any language other than English. The name of the file or folder is best made up of ASCII characters only, otherwise there will be problems with this object. The fact is that APFS does not support the normalization of characters of the Unicode universal coding system. This primarily affects written symbols of various languages, which differ from the letters of the English alphabet.

APFS was developed by the company from scratch and is focused primarily on working with flash drives and more advanced data encryption. APFS currently runs on all devices running iOS 10.3 or later. Thus, this problem is observed only on iPhones and iPads on which the user does not have direct access to files. However, since APFS will be deployed in macOS by the end of 2017, researchers already have the opportunity to fix the file name problem for this case^[25].

Unicode normalization

The Unicode coding system includes alphabets of almost all languages ​ ​ of the world that have writing, as well as numbers, mathematical signs, etc. Each such symbol is assigned a unique code that makes it part of a common system. Some characters are denoted by several code combinations at once. For example, the letter "é" can be represented in UTF-8 encoding as two hexadecimal bytes c3 a9, and can look like three hexadecimal bytes 65 cc 81. However, visually it is the same letter, and the computer must read it uniformly, which requires normalization.

The Unicode standard provides four normalization systems. The previous Apple file system, called HFS +, uses the normalization form D. That is, two different "é" are automatically reduced to one form and appear as three bytes 65 cc 81. In HFS +, this is done at the file system level. Thus, everything that runs on Mac, be it applications, commands or macOS itself, works with normalized file and folder names. HFS + does not allow any "abnormal" names to be created.

2016: Apple iOS 10

On September 13, 2016, Apple released iOS 10.

Among the innovations is the open Siri API for third-party developers. Now users can communicate with a voice assistant like a person: for example, "call a taxi," "write to the CEO," and so on.

The QuickType function has appeared - for those who like chats: contact information, current location, calendar, latest addresses^[26] new^[26].

In the application "Photos" appeared recognition of faces and objects. Photo sorting is more advanced, through the special Memories feature. According to sources in the company, artificial intelligence was used to sort photos: albums like "Family," "Travel" and "Mom's Birthday" are created automatically. Integration with macOS Sierra is implemented.

Maps. In iOS 10, the app received redesigned designs and features. Navigation is optimized, the object search interface and traffic information are upgraded. Apple Maps is open to third-party developers - you can find a restaurant in OpenTable, open it on a map, order a car from Uber and pay for Apple Pay.

Music. The application is presented in a different design. The service will select music to the preferences of users, support for the lyrics will help sing along with the performers.

Home app update for iOS released. With the help of iPhone, iPad and special accessories, you can control the smart home: turn on the light, adjust its brightness, open windows and more. The application will be available on the lock screen - for example, a picture from a surveillance camera.

In the Phone application, voice messages are automatically converted to text. The interface of the utility has been updated, VoIP API available for third-party developers, including. WhatsApp

iMessage has recognition of links and videos from YouTube, upgraded integration with the Photos application, and increased emoji icons.

It is possible to draw messages and respond to the interlocutor using Digital Touch.

Sending tracks from Apple Music, listening to them right in iMessage.

Support for general notes has been implemented.

2015: Apple iOS 9

Apple released the operating system for iOS 9 mobile devices in September 215. It is available for download, but as a rule, waiting for a download for the first time can be quite long.

This version of the OS has a battery saving mode, as well as the Wi-Fi Assist service - it turns off networks with a weak signal. In addition, in iOS 9, apps will take up less space than before. The OS itself has also decreased in size: if to update the previous version it was necessary to download more than 4 gigabytes of data, now 1.3 gigabytes. Also in iOS 9, "smart" input in Russian appeared and the ability to search through Spotlight in third-party applications was added. Multitasking has been added to the iPad version.

2014: Apple iOS 7.1

Operating system iOS 7.1 from the category of the beta version passed in March 2014 to the stage of the finished release. The final version of iOS 7.1 is a significant software update to the platform, the innovations in which are concentrated in the field of user interface and OS functionality^[27].

One of the main innovations in iOS 7.1 is support for CarPlay technology. The main task of this technology is to simplify the use of Apple technology in cars. According to the developer, with its help it will be possible to make calls, use navigation maps, switch tracks in the player and work with messages in the iPhone and iPad using the touch screen on the dashboard of the car. As the main way of interaction, voice commands are assumed, which are processed by the Siri assistant built into iOS.

The latter, by the way, received advanced features in iOS 7.1. Siri has a Push-to-talk function. It allows you to manually control when the voice assistant listens to the user by holding the 'Home' button while he speaks to Siri and releasing the button when he has finished talking. This scenario is an alternative to the existing option, in which Siri is given the opportunity to automatically determine that the user has finished talking.

iTunes Radio has added a search box located above the'Station Selection', allowing you to conveniently create stations based on your favorite artist or song. You can now subscribe to iTunes Match to listen to iTunes Radio without ads, not only from your computer, but also from your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. The set of'Calendar 'functions has also been updated. In the latter, scheduled events are now displayed in the Month section. In addition, Apple has improved the operation of the Touch ID fingerprint sensor.

A number of innovations in iOS 7.1 apply only to the iPhone 5s smartphone. So, the "Camera" program has learned to automatically turn on the function of taking photos with an extended dynamic range (HDR). In addition, Apple has fixed a problem that from time to time led to home screen failures of devices. The company also assured that after installing iOS 7.1, iPhone 4 smartphones will work faster.

Other changes include options for displaying button shapes, dimming colors in programs, and lowering the white point. Provides a function to automatically clear FaceTime call notifications when a user answers a call on another device. Fixed a bug that occasionally caused the home screen to fail. The update also includes a service part that increases the security of the device on the network and fixes software errors that could be exploited by attackers. You can update to the new version of iOS through the 'Settings' tab, 'Update ON'.

iOS 7.1 can be installed via Wi-Fi or via an iTunes computer. The update is compatible with the same devices as iOS 7 - these are iPhone 4, 4s, 5, 5c and 5s smartphones, iPad tablets (starting with the second generation) and fifth generation iPod touch players.

2012

Apple iOS 6.1.3: Complaints of Wi-Fi problems and fast discharge

In the new version of March 2013, an error was fixed, as a result of which outsiders could access the Phone program bypassing password entry, and the Japanese map in the Cards program was improved.

An error that allows you to bypass password protection by manipulating the lock screen, including an emergency call, was found in February 2013. After publishing an article about this error, Apple released iOS 6.1.2, but did not have time to add a fix to this version.

In iOS 6.1.3, Apple fixed vulnerabilities that allowed devices to be hacked using the Evasi0n tool.

Later it became known that users complain about problems with Wi-Fi and fast discharge after updating their Apple mobile devices to iOS 6.1.3, according to the Gotta Be Mobile blog, citing the official Internet forum.

Device owners note that standard methods for solving the problem of fast battery discharge - disabling notifications and resetting to factory settings - do not help.

As for the problems with connecting to Wi-Fi, they have been observed since iOS 6.0. In the firmware of iOS 6.1.2, according to some users, Apple fixed the error, but in iOS 6.1.3 it returned again.

The iOS 6.1.3 update was designed to fix a bug that allowed access to data on the iPhone bypassing the password by manipulating the lock screen. However, some have found a new way to get around the password in the latest update.

Apple iOS 6.1.2

Apple released the iOS 6.1.2 update in February 2013, which is designed to fix a bug in the Exchange function, leading to increased traffic and fast battery life. The update was released less than a week after Apple promised to fix the bug, AppleInsider notes. Its size is 12.8 MB. You can download the update to your phone via Wi-Fi.

Since the beginning of February 2013, this is the second firmware update. About a week ago, the company released iOS 6.1.1, which fixed problems with 3G connectivity. However, another bug in iOS remained - users reported discovering a way to bypass password protection.

Apple iOS 6.0.1

Apple released the iOS 6.0.1 firmware update for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch in fall 2012. The new firmware contains a number of fixes and improvements: an error has been fixed that prevents updates from being installed over the air on the iPhone 5; fixed the problem with the appearance of random horizontal lines on the on-screen keyboard, fixed an issue due to which the camera flash sometimes did not turn off. In addition, iOS 6.0.1 improves reliability when connecting mobile devices to WPA2-protected Wi-Fi networks. Recall that many owners complained about the reliability of connecting to Wi-Fi after the release of iOS 6. The update size is about 70 MB. You can download it either directly from your mobile device or through iTunes.

2011: Apple iOS 5

Apple's mobile OS will differ significantly from previous versions, and will be accompanied by a number of new "cloud" services, including a cloud service for storing music, as well as a service for finding friends and family members by their location. Part of Apple's cloud strategy is likely to be revealed during the WWDC (Apple Worldwide Developers Conference) in June. However, most likely, only the preliminary, and not the final, version of iOS 5 will be presented at the June conference, TechCrunch reported.

2010

Apple iOS 4.3

In the test version of iOS 4.3, a hot spot function has appeared, which allows you to use the iPhone as a Wi-Fi access point, connecting up to 5 wireless devices to a 3G network - laptops, tablets, and so on. The functionality of firmware 4.3 became known after Apple released its beta version. It is currently available on the developer website. It is assumed that the update will be available to users in March 2011. In addition to the hot spot function, support for new 4- and 5-finger gestures for the iPad has been added to the firmware. According to MacStories, by spreading your hands from the center with five fingers, the user will be able to access the home screen, and by performing a rotary gesture - open the tray of active or recently launched programs.

Apparently, Apple has also changed the purpose of the switch in the iPad. Initially, it was conceived to block the orientation of the screen, while with the new firmware it will be able to play the role of a sound switch.

It is assumed that after the release of the new firmware version, over time, Apple will abandon the mechanical button under the screen in the iPhone and iPad, as it will be replaced by the touch screen itself. It is reported by Boy Genius Report, citing an anonymous source.

Apple iOS 4.2

The new firmware adds more than 100 new features to the iPad, including multitasking, folders, merged inbox, Game Center, AirPlay and AirPrint. The Game Center function allows players to hold competitions and monitor the points scored, AirPlay is designed to advertise content stored in the iPad memory on the TV using Apple the TV set-top box. Finally, AirPrint is a feature for wireless printing on printers (by standard). Wi-Fi The first devices supported by this feature included HP Photosmart, HP LaserJet Pro and HP Officejet.

The new firmware also allows you to use the Find My iPhone (iPad or iPod touch) function for free, without having to register with the MobileMe service. Users also have access to the free function of remotely deleting data on a pulled or stolen device or blocking access. All this is done through a special application.

The update is available for iPad, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPod touch second, third and latest generations. The presence of certain functions depends on the device model. The company said nothing about whether the new firmware improves the performance of the iPhone 3G. iTunes 10.1 is required to update.

Apple iOS 4

On June 21, 2010, a version of the Apple iOS 4 operating system was released, formerly known as iPhone OS 4. The new OS is already available to owners of iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G devices, as well as iPod touch of the second and third generations. In addition, the fourth version of iOS will be preinstalled on iPhone 4 devices.

iOS 4 has a number of changes and improvements compared to the previous version, the most significant of which are multitasking support, as well as the opening of the API for third-party developers.

Multitasking for third-party applications first appears on Apple handheld devices. It allows users to combine work with several applications at once, while earlier they had to close one application to launch another. However, multitasking will not be available to iPhone 3G owners who have installed this system - it is presented only on the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPod touch of the third generation.

As noted by ArsTechnica, Apple's own applications have supported multitasking before (for example, a user could receive notifications from the iCal program by playing a game on his smartphone, or listen to music by browsing the web), but this functionality became available to third-party iOS software developers for the first time.

According to analysts, the multitasking added by Apple to the fourth version of its iOS for third-party developers is still very limited and does not compare with the capabilities of desktop PCs or even the functionality of the company's own applications. Apple representatives claim that they have limited this technology so that third-party applications do not overload the device's battery, while maintaining high performance.

So, now users can, for example, make calls through VoIP services, such as Skype, without the need to exit other applications, or listen to music in streaming mode through a special application, performing a number of other actions on their smartphone.

Also, iOS 4 has a number of other new features, including the ability to connect wireless Bluetooth keyboards to devices, adding 5x zoom on the camera, spell checking, text search engine, geolocation, etc.

However, some users who have already installed a new OS from Apple on their devices report an unpleasant problem with the system - they lost access to their emails, contacts and calendar on Google Apps and Microsoft Exchange services after installing iOS 4. This issue is expected to be fixed soon.

See also

• iOS security
• Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
• Acronis True Image for Mac
• Sophos SafeGuard Disk Encryption for Mac
• Android security

Notes