Apple has unveiled the release date of iOS 7, the company’s largest functional and aesthetic change to “the world’s most popular mobile operating system” since its inception in 2007.
While the flatter, cleaner lines are more fitting with the times, it’s the software’s improved developer tools, along with a number of new APIs for things like background updating, that make iOS 7 so interesting.
Features like Search and Siri have been overhauled — the Spotlight is now accessed by swiping down from anywhere on the home screen — with the automated helper now available in a male voice as well.
The company has also announced that the iWork suite, including iMovie, iPhoto, Keynote, Number and Pages will be a free download for iOS 7 users on both iPhone and iPad.
Apple will release the software update for most existing iOS devices, including the iPhone 4, 4s, 5, iPod touch 5G, along with the iPad 2, 3 and 4 and mini, on September 18th. Looks like the iPhone and iPad are getting the update on the same day, contrary to earlier reports.
