Apple has just launched the final version of iOS 14, the next big version of the iPhone operating system. It's a free download and works with the iPhone 6s or later, all versions of the iPhone SE and the new iPod touch edition. If your device is running iOS 13, it supports iOS 14. The update may or may not be available immediately, but keep checking because people are now getting the update.
The company is also launching big updates to iPad, Apple Watch and Apple TV today. So you should expect some new features with iPadOS 14, tvOS 14 and watchOS 7.
Many developers were shocked by the announcement of these changes. Apple revealed yesterday that iOS 14 will be ready for prime time today. Usually, the release date of the company is announced a week or two in advance. Developers have ample time to patch the last remaining bugs and send updates to the App Store.
If you're upgrading your iPhone today, don't be shocked if you find a few glitches from third-party applications here and there. There are some big improvements under the hood, and no one predicted such a short turnaround.
The update is currently being rolled out and is available both over-the-air in the Settings app and by plugging your computer into iTunes for a wired update. But first of all, back up your computer. Make sure your iCloud backup is up to date by opening the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and taping your account details at the top and then your device name. You can also connect your iOS device to your computer to do a manual backup on iTunes.
Don't forget to encrypt your iTunes backup. It's much better to have someone hack your computer. And encrypted backups contain stored passwords and health records. You don't have to reconnect to all your online accounts this way.
If this is completed, you should go to the Settings screen, then 'General' and then 'Software Update.' Then you should see 'Update Requested...' and start installing automatically if the upgrade is available.
The biggest change to iOS 14 is the inclusion of widgets on the home screen, the latest App Library to search all of your games, and the ability to run App Clips — these are mini games that feature a small portion of the app, and you can run without downloading anything.
There are also several changes across the board, such as new functionality for Notifications, with a focus on groups with @-mentions and responses, a new Translate app that works on your computer, bicycle directions on Apple Maps in some cities, and numerous changes to Notes, Reminders, Weather, Home and more.
