iOS, Apple Inc.’s exclusive operating system, powers the iPhone and previously supported the iPad and iPod Touch. Co-founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1977, Apple introduced the groundbreaking iOS with the first iPhone in 2007.
This operating system, built on Mac OS, significantly advanced touchscreen technology, allowing finger and stylus inputs on the screen. Besides iOS, Apple developed other system variations like watchOS, tvOS, and iPadOS for its different devices.
Evolution and Features of iOS
Since its introduction, iOS has seen regular updates, each enhancing features and introducing new apps. Notable updates include the 2008 introduction of the App Store, allowing users to buy third-party apps, and the 2010 iOS 4 update that introduced FaceTime. Siri came with iOS 6 in 2012, and Apple Pay with iOS 8 in 2014, while iOS 7 offered a complete visual overhaul.
The latest version, iOS 17, was launched in September 2023. Despite its advancements, some iOS updates have had issues, such as the keyboard glitches in iOS 11, which Apple promptly addressed with patches.
Updating and Maintaining iOS
iPhones come with iOS pre-installed, and users can update their devices to the latest version via the Settings app. Apple encourages keeping iOS up to date by offering automatic updates. This feature ensures the phone always runs the latest version by downloading and installing updates overnight when connected to Wi-Fi and charging. All updates are free, maintaining Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience with each iOS version.
