Is iOS 11 Really Worth the Upgrade from iOS 10?
Introduction:
As technology evolves, so do the operating systems that power our devices. This article explores the transition from iOS 10 to iOS 11 and provides a personal perspective on whether the upgrade is worthwhile. If you're considering upgrading, this review will highlight the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Why iOS 11 Isn't a Game Changer for Everyone
My personal experience with iOS 11 has been mixed. While it has a number of nice little upgrades, many of them are small changes that provide little to no impact on my daily usage. For example, the addition of a wide-angle camera is a nice feature, but for me, the rule of getting as close as possible for better shots takes precedence. I have a fantastic picture of my dog's eye, and other close-up shots that adhere to this rule, but occasionally I might use the wide-angle for broader scenes. However, the wide-angle camera isn't a game changer for me.
The introduction of spatial sound is a welcome addition, but in my experience, I hardly ever use the iPhone speakers for anything other than alarm sounds. While spatial sound might be a feature that other users find more exciting, I have not been particularly impressed with it in my day-to-day use.
Another notable update is the 20% CPU speed increase, which, while not groundbreaking, does represent a positive step in device performance. However, the waiting has been long for such a small increment. For instance, the CPU speed bump in iOS 11 seems to be the smallest we've seen in some time. Nonetheless, a 20% improvement over the existing 80% remains 100% better, so it's a positive change.
The U1 Chip: A Minor Improvement for Big Features
The new U1 chip introduced in iOS 11 enhances the capabilities of Apple's devices, particularly in terms of spatial awareness and precise location services. While the U1 chip can locate other U1 chips and even provide data on other WiFi or Bluetooth sources, the impact on everyday use is not as life-changing as it might seem on paper. The feature that could be of real value is the ability to arrange and locate other devices using AirDrop based on actual room orientation. This feature could make it easier to find your AirPods or device in the gym locker. While it's not a life-changing feature, it certainly adds a nice quality of life improvement.
Additional Battery Life: A Slight But Appreciated Boost
The extra battery life provided by iOS 11 is a welcome improvement, but for me, my current iPhone Xs Max already lasts a full day. Therefore, the additional life in the new iPhone 11 is primarily a 'more lasts the day' upgrade. However, for someone who barely lasts through a day, this could be a considerable benefit. The battery life is definitely a consideration for those who value extended use between charges.
Should You Upgrade?
Based on my experience, iOS 11 offers a lot of nice little upgrades, but many of them are small changes that provide little impact on daily usage. If you have an iPhone XR, it might be worth considering an upgrade, as some of the changes could be a game changer for you. However, if you have an iPhone 8, the upgrade to iOS 11 is almost a no-brainer due to the improved CPU, better battery life, and other features.
On the other hand, if you own an iPhone XS Max, the incremental improvements in iOS 11 may not be as impactful, and you might prefer to wait for the next major update or consider the more significant improvements in the subsequent models like the Pro Max.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to iOS 11 depends on your specific needs and habits. While there are plenty of nice little upgrades to enjoy, the true impact of these changes varies. For some, the experience might be transformative, while for others, it might be more of a familiar step forward. If you're considering the upgrade, weigh the details and ensure you're getting the most out of your update.