Just days after the iPhone 6 launch, Apple has finally released the latest version of Apple’s iOS mobile operating system, iOS 8.
It seems Apple has become more flexible, as it will mark the first time Apple has opened up its mobile operating system to third-party keyboards and widgets, via iOS 8 Extensions. Media apps will also gain more access to the device’s camera. Apple has also unveiled their first original programing language called Swift.
The iOS 8 also comes with new and improved features, some big, some small. But all these changes and adjustments are sure to impact the lives of iPhone and iPad users worldwide.
New Appearance for iPhone and iPad screens
Although nothing has changed with the basic layout like the fonts, color schemes and wallpapers, there are a few changes to the iOS 8 that makes it easier for the users to utilize. One is replying to text messages or iMessages by simply without having to leave other apps or unlocking your phone.
The Notification Center now supports third-party widgets making it possible for the Today screen to be customized and to display different interactive widgets from other apps.
Changes have also been made to the contacts. By double clicking the home button, a list of your frequently used contacts pops up with a new multi-tasking app view.
Battery Usage Indicator
In iOS 8, Apple has come up with settings that will tell users exactly which applications and phone activities are draining your battery life.
Users will be able to know which apps not to use or selectively change their settings to maximize their batteries.
Keyboards
Apple’s autocorrect feature has been the topic of buzz over the years, and not in the most positive way. In iOS 8, the keyboard gets a revamp with predictive typing, which suggests several word options as you type, at the same time studying what you’re most likely to say to different contacts.
At the same time, Apple is giving developers the option to create and offer their own keyboards.
Camera
In iOS 8, new options will be made available like the three-second timer and time lapse for video, which is the opposite of iOS 7’s slow motion feature.
Also, users can now control the camera’s focus and exposure.
iCloud
iOS 8 offers an upgrade to you iCloud Photo Library, which will instantly upload all iPhone and iPad photos and videos to the iCloud Photo Library. Users will get 5GB free storage, and bigger storage plans will cost about $0.99 a month.
iCloud is also coming up with a native file system similar to Dropbox and Google Drive called the iCloud Drive which allow you to store windows office files and PDFs.
Health
Probably the newest feature on the iOS 8, the Health app provides a place for all your health and fitness needs. Previous health and fitness apps like Nike+ and Fitbit will be integrated to the Health app.