If there’s one thing that Apple users can feel proud about owning an iPhone or Mac is the speed at which everyone gets the software upgrades. And this year’s no different.
As promised, iOS 10 has rolled out to users across the globe earlier this week and all the new features have been put to test. These are some of the changes that make the new iOS version even better.
iOS 10 Goes Gesture-Jazzy
Swiping up from the bottom edge still gets you the Control Center with quick access to the flashlight, airplane mode and other frequent functions. But it’s now split into multiple screens. Once Control Center is open, swipe to the left to get audio and video controls. Swipe left once more to control lights and other accessories through Apple’s HomeKit automation system.
From the lock screen, you were able to access the camera by pulling up from the bottom right corner. Now, you swipe left from the right edge.
Swiping down from the top edge still gets you recent notifications, but your widgets and calendars have moved. Now, you get those by swiping right from the left edge. Those widgets join app and news recommendations that were already there.
More Power on The Lock Screen
The screen now turns on automatically when you lift your phone. You can do much more from the lock screen, such as viewing a photo from a friend or listening to a voice message.
Tapping the home button with fingerprint ID will unlock the phone, but won’t necessarily get you the home screen. It will allow greater access to messages and other notifications from the lock screen, but you need to press the home button again to get to all your apps.
New-Age Messages
The Messages app now has its own app store to get additional functionality, sometimes for a fee. Just hit the “A’’ icon above the keyboard.
As you discuss dinner plans with friends, for instance, you can have OpenTable slide up from the bottom without leaving messages. Suggest a few places and times so friends you’re chatting with can vote. Make a reservation right from Messages.
Maps, meanwhile, adds support for restaurant reservations and ride-hailing services, such as Uber and Lyft. A new tab called “Ride” appears alongside “Drive,” ‘’Walk” and “Transit.”
Siri now works with third-party apps for messaging, ride hailing, workouts, photos, internet calling and payments services. However, Siri is still not compatible with apps such as Spotify. No surprises there!
Apps Get a Makeover
Interface of Apple Maps has been given a new look with a new set of features, making it easy to access than before. Mail app is also more user-friendly than before.
The Clock app gets a Bedtime feature, that lets users choose the same time to wake up as well as sleep. For users with the iPhone 6S or 7, the flashlight available on the Control Center is capable of adjusting brightness by making use of the phone’s 3D Touch technology.
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