How to download iOS 8
LOS ANGELES — How would you like to get many of the cool new features of the new iPhone without having to wait on those expected massive lines Friday to snag that new i-device?
That would be possible by downloading iOS 8, the new mobile operating system upgrade from Apple, which will be released Wednesday.
Apple hasn't said what time the download will be available, but historically it starts kicking in early in the morning. Apple pre-dates the release of the new iPhones — which hit stores Friday — with an operating system upgrade.
New features will include the ability to create audio text messages, make use of predictive typing on the keyboard and use the Siri personal assistant to do more than just do tasks. Now it will also work within apps.
The new iOS 8 isn't a radical redesign like last year — an overhauled look that was eventually embraced but produced growing pains for many. Some users felt the snazzy graphics made them dizzy, others experienced battery drain on older devices.
Mike McCue, co-founder of the Flipboard social news app, has been using iOS 8 for months.
The upgrade feels "very modern and futuristic," he says. "It's about things working better now. It goes deeper than just the looks. It's about the feel of the iOS experience."
There is usually a stampede at first to get the new OS, so it could take awhile to get through. And there are always bugs that Apple works out after the initial feedback comes in.
But if you want to be first on the block to get IOS8, here's what to do:
— First, are you compatible? iOS 8 is available on iPhones from 4s on up, iPads from the 2 and iPod Touch from the fifth-generation device.
— Good? Now, let's back up what you have before starting something new. Make sure your photos, videos and contacts are secure. Do this by plugging the device into the computer, fire up iTunes and select "Backup Now," or go to iCloud.com and choose the backup option.
— Free up space: You need at least 1 GB of space to add iOS 8, but could need 5 GBs or more free to run the system if downloaded over-the-air. Go to settings, usage, and see what you can delete. (Plugging the device into the computer and iTunes software won't send you on a deleting expedition. The compressed file makes use of the extra space on the computer to decompress.)
— Now you're ready. Plug your device into a charger and turn on Wi-Fi. Go to settings for software update, and wait to be connected.
The download could take some time, so be prepared to put in the time. Once it's done, reboot your device and get ready to have the iOS 8 experience.
Follow Jefferson Graham on Twitter.