Source: Apple. 

Apple has announced that its latest mobile operating system, iOS 9, will launch on September 16th. This free update for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users boasts enhanced search capabilities and improved Siri functionality.

One of the standout features of iOS 9 is its new multitasking capabilities for iPad. Users can now work with two apps concurrently, viewing them side-by-side. A Picture-in-Picture feature also allows for video playback while using other apps. Many built-in apps have been enhanced, including a redesigned Notes app, more detailed transit information in Maps, and an entirely new News app designed for an optimal reading experience.

According to Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior VP of Software Engineering, iOS 9 focuses on making the user experience more powerful and intuitive. The improved Siri offers more functionality and proactive assistance, all while maintaining user privacy. Federighi also highlighted the extensive beta testing program, involving over a million users, which contributed to making this release the most robust iOS version yet.

iOS 9 introduces proactive assistance, anticipating user needs based on their typical usage patterns and providing relevant information throughout the day. Siri has undergone a redesign, now offering location and time-sensitive reminders, along with improved search functions for photos and videos. General search queries within iOS have also been enhanced, offering a wider range of results and encompassing categories like sports scores, math calculations, weather, and stock prices.

This release places a strong emphasis on efficiency. Battery optimization delivers an extra hour of usage, while a new low-power mode extends battery life further. Software updates are now designed to require less storage space and can be scheduled for installation during periods of inactivity. Security has also been enhanced, strengthening passcodes and incorporating two-factor authentication directly into iOS for greater Apple ID protection. To top it off, iOS 9 leverages Metal technology for a smoother, faster, and more responsive user interface and app experience.

Here’s a closer look at the new iPad-specific multitasking features:

• Slide Over: Allows users to open a second app without needing to close the current one, enabling quick and easy switching between them.
• Split View: Enables viewing and interacting with two apps simultaneously in a split-screen format, with the option to resize each app window as needed.
• Picture-in-Picture: Permits users to watch videos or continue FaceTime calls while working in other apps. 
• Enhanced Typing: Faster and more efficient typing is made possible with a new Shortcut Bar that provides handy editing tools, along with new Multi-Touch gestures for easier text selection, editing, and movement.

iOS 9 introduces several redesigned and improved apps, including Notes, Maps, News, and Apple Pay.

The revamped Notes app now allows users to sketch ideas using their finger, easily create checklists, and add photos directly into notes. Important items from other apps can be saved directly to Notes and synchronized across all devices via iCloud.

Maps now includes support for public transportation systems and schedules in select major cities worldwide. Subway entrances and exits are precisely mapped for ease of navigation. When planning a trip, Maps suggests routes combining various transportation methods like trains, subways, buses, and walking. It also provides information on nearby establishments like restaurants, cafes, shops, and more.

The all-new News app provides a magazine-style reading experience enhanced with digital interactivity. It learns user preferences over time, suggesting engaging content that can easily be shared or saved for later. Articles are sourced from over 50 publishers, encompassing hundreds of well-respected news, sports, business, and magazine brands covering a vast range of topics.

Apple Pay expands its features to include Discover card support, merchant rewards programs, and store-issued credit and debit cards. Managing these cards will be done through the new Wallet app.

Intrigued by iOS 9?

It’s available starting September 16th as a free update for a range of devices: iPhone 4s and later, iPod touch 5th generation and later, iPad 2 and later, and iPad mini and later. Please note that the availability of certain features may differ depending on your region or language.

*Battery life varies based on usage patterns and settings.

**Transit information in Maps is currently offered in specific major cities worldwide, including Baltimore, Berlin, Chicago, London, Mexico City, New York City, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Toronto, and Washington D.C., as well as over 300 cities in China, including Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai. Information on nearby locations and businesses is available in the US and China.

***News app availability depends on your country.