When to Upgrade to iOS 11

Released on September 19th, 2017, iOS 11 was made available as a free upgrade for eligible devices. This new mobile operating system comes with a range of improvements and new features, making it a must-upgrade for many iOS users. If you're considering an upgrade, this guide will help you understand when you can and how to proceed.

Supported Devices

Not all devices are compatible with iOS 11. Here are the supported devices:

iPhone: iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s iPad: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation and 1st generation), 10.5-inch iPad Pro, 9.7-inch iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, 5th generation iPad, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2 iPod: iPod touch (6th generation)

If you own a compatible device, you can start preparing for the upgrade now. If not, you may want to hold off or consider an upgrade to a compatible device.

Upgrade Instructions

If you are ready to upgrade, here are two detailed guides to help you:

Wired Magazine's upgrade instructions CNET's guide on how to install via iTunes

Main Features and Enhancements

What can you expect in iOS 11? Besides a list of fully detailed enhancements, here are some of the major improvements and features:

Improved Siri: There's a new Do Not Disturb While Driving mode. Enhanced File Management: iOS 11 introduces better file management options. Enhanced Multitasking on iPad: This version offers enhanced multitasking features. 64-bit Apps Only: iOS 11 is the first version to support only 64-bit apps. Minor Cosmetic Tweaks: You will notice some minor tweaks and adjustments that improve the overall user experience. 15 Neat Hidden Features: TechCrunch lists 15 cool hidden features in iOS 11.

Final Release

The iOS 11 Gold Master Final release will be available to everyone as a free update starting on September 19th, 2017. While technically, iOS 11 GM is already available for developers, the full release for the general public will be forthcoming.

Conclusion

Upgrading to iOS 11 is an excellent move for any iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch owner with a compatible device. It offers numerous enhancements and new features that can greatly improve your device's functionality. If you're excited to try it out, now is the perfect time.

Compatible Devices (Referred to Above)

iPhone: iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s

iPad: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation and 1st generation), 10.5-inch iPad Pro, 9.7-inch iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, 5th generation iPad, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2

iPod: iPod touch (6th generation)

Wired Magazine's Upgrade Instructions

For detailed upgrade instructions, check out Wired Magazine's guide. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of upgrading your iOS device to iOS 11.

CNET's iTunes Guide

Alternative to direct over-the-air updates, CNET provides a guide for using iTunes to install the update. See CNET's guide for more details.

Full List of Enhancements

For a comprehensive list of all the enhancements in iOS 11, visit the following link: How To Geek's full list.

15 Neat Hidden Features in iOS 11 (From TechCrunch)

If you're into discovering hidden gems in iOS 11, check out TechCrunch's list of 15 neat features that you might not have known about yet.