What Is iOS?

iOS is the mobile operating system developed by Apple Inc., designed specifically for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices. Known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, iOS offers a range of features aimed at enhancing productivity, security, and user experience. It is regularly updated with new functionalities and improvements to keep pace with technological advancements and user needs.

Learn about macOS and iPadOS.

Devices That Can Run iOS

iOS is used on various Apple products, including:

• iPhone
• iPad (older iPad models run iOS with iPadOS being a tailored version for iPad)
• iPod touch

Features

iOS provides numerous features that enhance usability and security. Siri, Apple’s voice-activated assistant, enables hands-free control and interaction with the device. Face ID and Touch ID offer advanced biometric security options for unlocking the device and authenticating payments. Apple Pay allows for secure and convenient transactions directly from the device.

Focus Mode helps manage distractions by filtering notifications, allowing users to concentrate on their tasks. Widgets on the Home Screen provide quick access to important information and app functionalities. Live Text lets users interact with text within photos and images, facilitating easy copying, pasting, and looking up information.

How It Works

iOS operates with a touch-based graphical interface, featuring a Home Screen, Control Centre, and app management system. It supports a wide range of native and third-party applications, and integrates seamlessly with other Apple products such as Mac and Apple Watch. This integration allows users to start a task on one device and continue it on another without interruption. Built on a robust foundation following the same format as macOS, iOS ensures stability and performance, with a design philosophy that priorities simplicity and ease of use.

Version History

iOS 18

iOS 18 introduces advanced customisation options, a redesigned Control Centre, new Apple Intelligence features, and enhanced writing tools. It focuses on delivering a more personalised and intuitive user experience with improved connectivity and new ways to express yourself.

iOS 17

iOS 17 introduces features like improved multitasking, advanced privacy tools, enhanced FaceTime capabilities, and updates to core applications. It focuses on delivering a more integrated and efficient user experience with performance enhancements and new functionalities.

iOS 16

iOS 16 brings customisable widgets, updated notifications, and improvements to applications like Safari and Messages. It enhances the user experience with performance optimisations and new security features.

iOS 15

iOS 15 introduces features such as Focus mode, Live Text, and updates to FaceTime and Safari. It offers a refined user experience with enhancements to productivity and security.

iOS 14

iOS 14 brings significant updates including new widgets, a redesigned Home Screen, and improvements to privacy and security. It enhances user experience with a fresh look and improved functionalities.

iOS 13

iOS 13 delivers a new system-wide dark mode, enhanced performance, and updates to core applications. It focuses on improving user experience with visual and performance improvements.

iOS 12

iOS 12 introduces performance enhancements, new features for augmented reality, and updates to core applications. It focuses on delivering a smoother and more efficient user experience.