Apple has unveiled iOS 6, the latest version of its mobile operating system, at its developers conference in California. The new OS is available in beta to developers already and will launch as a free update for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users this autumn.
New features include a Maps app developed by Apple, replacing the default Google Maps on the iPhone. The app includes turn-by-turn navigation with spoken directions, real-time traffic information, integrated local search and recommendations and the Flyover feature with interactive 3D views.
iOS 6 also brings new languages to Siri, the voice commands system, which also gets a new Eyes Free mode, enabling users to interact with their phone using only voice. In addition, Apple is offering more Facebook integration with iOS 6. Users of the social network can sign in once and post from Notification Center, Siri and Facebook-enabled apps, including Photos, Safari and Maps. Facebook friends’ information is also integrated with contacts on the phone, updating automatically.
The iCloud storage service gets the new feature Shared Photo Streams, where users can share photos from the phone with other friends' Apple devices or online. Freinds can then comment on shared photo books. Finally, the new Passbook app creates a type of wallet on the iPhone, for tickets, coupons, boarding passes and loyalty cards. Users scan the pass with their phone and then show it at entry. Passbook can also automatically display the pass on the phone's Lock Screen based on a specific time or location.
iOS 6 also introduces Guided Access, which allows a parent, teacher or administrator to disable hardware buttons to lock an iOS device to a single app. This could be used for taking a test or restricting access to certain apps.
Other new iOS features include enhancements to the Safari web browser, support for FaceTime video calls over cellular networks, setting up a VIP mailbox to view messages only from important contacts, new call divert and callback options, and a range of new services for users in China, such as improved text input and integration with local social networks and search.
