Apple unveils iOS 6 with Maps, upgraded Siri, Facebook


Apple today previewed iOS 6, introducing over 200 new features to the world's most advanced mobile operating system, and released a beta version to iOS Developer Program members. iOS 6 will be available to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users this fall as a free software update. New iOS 6 features include: an all new Maps app with Apple-designed cartography, turn-by-turn navigation and an amazing new Flyover view; new Siri features, including support for more languages, easy access to sports scores, restaurant recommendations and movie listings; Facebook integration for Contacts and Calendar, with the ability to post directly from Notification Center, Siri and Facebook-enabled apps like Photos, Safari and Maps; Shared Photo Streams via iCloud; and Passbook, the simplest way to get all your passes in one place.


The biggest tentpole feature is Maps. Pretty cool 3D modeling that allows zooming, tilt, and pan touch controls. Only a few of the largest cities are currently in the beta, so we'll have to see how much is covered once IOS 6 launches. Also with maps are turn-by-turn driving navigation. The navigation is pretty basic, at least right now, but functional. It looks to be a great built-in feature, however.

Siri is also getting an upgrade with added functions including opening apps. Siri can also now look up sports info, better restaurant data, and basic movie info.

Similar to Twitter, Apple looks to be integrating Facebook right into the OS. It will make for easier sharing of info without having to load up any of Facebook's apps. Similar on the social sharing side, Apple is expanding Photo Stream. Users will be able to share albums, people will be able to comment photos, and even view on the Web.

Passbook is a new organization app. It collects coupons, tickets, and other scannable items. It's a one stop shop for pretty much anything scannable it seems.

More new features include FaceTime over cellular data. Apple is also working to consolidate contact info by email, Apple ID, and phone numbers for easier contacts. Other features include a cool text response to phone calls, so if you can't take the call you can respond quickly via Messages. Mail and Safari also get some new features with a VIP inbox, inline photo/video attachments and for Safari include iCloud tabs, full screen landscape, and offline reading lists.

iOS 6 will be available for the iPhone 4S, 4, 3GS, iPad 3rd Gen, iPad 2, and iPod touch 4G this fall.