Highly Anticipated iOS 6 Releases

The highly anticipated iOS 6 released yesterday as waves of Apple lovers ran to download the new operating system for iPhones and iPads. The new update brings an array of new features making the device better than ever. This edition of digiBIZ Daily is dedicated to the release as we explore the new features including new integration with Facebook and Twitter, Siri’s updates, maps, passbook and more. I didn’t update to 5 because I knew there were kinks that needed to be worked out but I am highly pleased with iOS 6. 

Social Integration

One of the most exciting features for me is the new and improved social integration of the new iOS. Significantly Facebook has made many enhancements to its integration with iOS. Now before I get into the integration, Zuckerburg announced in an interview last week that the biggest failure of Facebook was their focus on HTML5 so they have turned their focus towards native development until HTML5 evolves further. The new Facebook update and iOS is BY FAR the best Facebook app we have seen. Faster with less bugs and it actually makes me want to use the app again. The new integration includes updates from the scroll down, automatic photo uploads directly from the photos/camera and automatic sync with your contacts! This is truly a new social experience on your device.

The New Maps and Navigation

We knew for months that Apple was cutting ties with Google products like YouTube and Maps and so iOS 6 had to sport a new map and navigation solution. Unfortunately for us iPhone 4 users we were left out of the new turn-by-turn directions but Maps does offer us vintage iPhone users some nice new features. The new maps are detailed with a great flyover feature that actually shows landmarks. Apple has done an amazing job graphically with the new maps. I believe the greatest feature is the new turn-by-turn directions, which will save us Verizon users from paying $1.99/month for VZ Navigator.

Siri Gets Updated, She’s Smarter

Siri got a little older; more mature, and is finally the virtual personal assistant you can’t live without. Siri was updated to open up applications, get the latest sports scores although from pictures on Twitter yesterday it could burn a whole a little larger in your soul if you are asking for your favorite team after losing 15-1. Siri will now find restaurants and make reservations for you and lastly Siri is ready to do your social updates for you on Facebook and Twitter. I also learned there are some third-party enhancements that will teach Siri to talk in an accent so if you were looking for the French personal assistant, look no further.

The New Passbook is Fantastic

Part of iOS 6 was the new Passbook application that saves loyalty cards, coupons and other information that will save us from the pesky key chain cards, filling up the wallet, and the un-organization of the thousands of loyalty programs we belong too. I started by adding a few loyalty cards including my Kroger card and Blockbuster card and already a little more organization. Passbook is Apple’s attempt at mobile commerce. Apple looks to extend its partner relationships with retail by allowing users use passbook to purchase products along with having all their coupons and loyalty programs directly on their phone.