The next iteration of Apple’s mobile operation system, iOS 8 will be available for download for millions of iPhones, iPads and the iPod Touch users across the globe today. In India, the update will be available post 10.30PM IST.
To check if the update has reached your device, you’ll need to go to Settings | General | Software Update. Once you see that iOS 8 is available for your device, you’ll be shown a list of changes and terms and conditions. If you agree to the changes, click Agree to proceed with the download.
You’ll be given an option to install it, which you can select anytime after the download is complete. Once you click Install, your device will restart before you can enjoy the iOS 8 experience.
However, before you download the update make sure you have:
1. Created a backup of all your files – To do this plug the device to a computer, open iTunes and select Backup Now, or go to iCloud.com and choose the backup option. You can also create a backup directly from your device running on iOS 7 from the iCloud option on Settings, selecting Storage & Backup and clicking on Back Up Now.
2. At least 3GB of space on your Apple device – The iOS 7 update package was about 700MB, however users were required to have at least 3GB of free space on their devices in order to actually install the update. Expect the iOS 8 update to have similar requirements. Free up some space by deleting some photos, apps or music, once you’ve created a backup.
3. A working Wi-Fi connection – Expect the file to be at least 3GB in size, so make sure you have a fast and reliable Internet connection so that you can download the files as quickly as you can.
4. Continuous power supply – The installation stalls if there isn’t enough juice left on your Apple device, so make sure you’ve plugged it to a power source before starting with the upgrade.
The update is compatible with the iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S. The 5th generation iPod touch and all iPads (except the original one) will also be handed the iOS 8 update.
