iOS 5 Release Date: How It Can Transform Your Apple Device

By Ravelle Mohammed, Christian Post Reporter Thursday, October 13, 2011

Apple’s iOS 5 hit store shelves Wednesday with over 200 new features – many anticipate how the upgrade will transform Apple devices.

iOS 5 allows users to download software updates directly to their devices, wirelessly. Everything can be backed up and restored from the iCloud feature.

Apple has also included a new instant messaging service, iMessage, which allows users to send unlimited text messages to anyone with an iPad or iPod touch.

In a review for CNET, Jason Parker wrote, “Though iOS 5 is not as drastic of an upgrade as we saw with iOS 4 in June 2010, it does offer some much-needed and exciting enhancements for iOS users.”

“A few are quiet and long overdue and others will seriously change how you use your Apple handset,” Parker added.

Other perks of the iOS 5 includes Newsstand, a virtual bookshelf displaying digital magazine and newspaper subscriptions, and Twitter integration. Users now have the option to post photos to the social networking service without leaving the image gallery or camera application.

However, the updated software does have some cons, which have a lot to do with limitations on certain issues. For example, iOS 5 requires a connection to a computer via USB to set up iTunes Wi-Fi Sync and using Mail and Notes with iCloud requires creating an @me.com account.

Other cons have to do with certain features only working for specific devices and not all Apple products. For instance, Airplay mirroring is limited to iPad 2 and iPhone 4S and Siri voice control is only available on iPhone 4S.

Available free of charge, iOS 5 is compatible with iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3Gs, both versions of the iPad and the third and fourth generation models of the iPod touch.