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iOS 9 is out today - when, where, and how to to get it

Maps! Multitasking! Siri 2.0!

iOS 9 is out today - when, where, and how to to get it
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iOS
iOS 9

Today, Apple will release the latest version of the operating system that powers iPhones, iPads, and iPod touches. Here's our breakdown of everything you need to know about iOS 9.

iOS 9, eh? What's that do?

iOS 9's headline feature is arguably the addition of split-screen multitasking on iPad. Though, it won't work on every device.

All iPads since iPad Air or iPad mini 2 now feature "Slide Over", where thin versions of apps can slide out from the side of your screen. Plus, those devices have picture in picture, where videos can pop out and continue playing in other apps.

If you've got an iPad Air 2 (or an iPad Pro, when it launches), you'll be able to run two active apps simultaneously. Nifty. Third party apps will need to be updated to support these features.

I've only got an iPhone, you jackass. What do I get?

Oh, iOS 9 also adds a News app, an improved Notes apps with doodling and lists, public transport info in the Maps app, an (optional) iCloud Drive app for managing your remote files, and a bar above the keyboard with shortcuts.

Siri has also been given an upgrade, too. She can now answer more questions, make smart suggestions (like picking up a podcast you were listening to earlier when you plug in your headphones), and remind you to check things later.

What about new emojis? I only really care about emojis. Dancing woman aubergine turd with eyes

Yes, there are new emoji in iOS 9. Including a taco and a middle finger. You should like that one.

Hang about. Doesn't iOS 9 also block ads?

Ah. Yes. You can install content blockers which let you block ads and trackers in Safari.

Epic! Freedom from ads. Why didn't you say that first, you prick?

Well, look. It's good news for those who want the web to load faster, want to use less mobile data when they browse Safari, and want their battery to last longer. But it's bad for those trying to fund free content through advertising.

Do I look like I give a toss about your financial wellbeing and the future of internet journalism? Just gimme the update already

It's not out yet. It will be available sometime later today. You'll get a notification on your device when it's ready, or just hang around on Pocket Gamer - while it's still financially viable - and we'll let you know.

Oh boo hoo. Now, will this work on my iPhone 3GS then?

What? No. Does that even still work? No, you'll need an iPhone 4S or newer, an iPad mini or iPad 2 or better, or a fifth or sixth generation iPod touch.

Right, let's pretend for the sake of continuing this charade of an article that I also have an iPod. What can I do right now to prepare?

You might want to back up your device. The update should keep all your apps and data intact, but if it encounters an error during the installation it may wipe your, er, iPod.

You can plug your device into your computer and back up through iTunes. Or, go into Settings, find the iCloud options, and do a backup here. This will store your stuff on Apple's servers, and you can retrieve it if the update goes tits up.

You'll also need about 1.3GB of free space. That's a lot less than the 4.5GB monster update for iOS 8, but you may need to delete a couple games or other apps to make space.

And what do I do when the update is out?

Just find the Software Update option under the general settings on your device and hit download. It will download to your device and walk you through the update process. Easy peasy. Even a moron like you could do it.

What did you just call me?!
Mark Brown
Mark Brown
Mark Brown spent several years slaving away at the Steel Media furnace, finally serving as editor at large of Pocket Gamer before moving on to doing some sort of youtube thing.