iPhone users across the world are buzzing with news of iOS 14, the latest software update unveiled at Apple’s WWDC event on Monday.
“iOS 14 brings a fresh look to the things you do most often, making them easier than ever. New features help you get what you need in the moment. And the apps you use all the time become even more intelligent, more personal, and more private,” Apple said.
iOS 14 release date
With all the excitement going on among iPhone users, the biggest question, understandably, is when is iOS 14 coming out.
Well, the iOS 14 release date will be this Fall in the United States, which will be in Spring in South Africa (September 2020). Some patience required there!
UPDATE: Apple announced on Tuesday (15 September) that it will release iOS 14 on Wednesday, 16 September, 2020.
However, some early developer reviews point to awesome new iOS 14 features that should make it well worth the wait. For the really impatient, iOS 14 beta will most likely be out in July 2020.
Which iPhones will get iOS 14?
This is the next big question that could get a few iPhone users a little sweaty – just in case they are locked out.
First things first – the much-anticipated software update is absolutely free. This is obvious, but now to the crunch part – the following iPhones will be able to get iOS 14:
- iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus and iPhone SE (first generation)
- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (second generation)
This means the vast majority of iPhone users will be able to download the software because, well, the earlier iPhone versions are getting rarer these days.
Notable iOS 14 new features
One of the biggest features of the new software is the ability to add redesigned widgets on the Home Screen. Users will therefore get more information from their devices at a glance.
“You can also add a Smart Stack of widgets intelligently curated based on the apps you use most, and the right widget will show up automatically at the right time in your day,” Apple added.
There’s also an App Library introduced to organise apps by category and “most-used” – making it much easier to find what you need quickly.
Another feature, Compact Calls, means that normal, FaceTime or third-party app calls will no longer take up your device’s full screen.
With Picture in Picture, iPhone users can keep watching videos or maintain their FaceTime calls while using another app at the same time.
The new update also comes with pinned conversations in Messages, which allows users to pin up to nine conversations to the top of their list. Other features in Messages include inline replies, mentions and group photos. Users will also get more than 20 new Memoji styles and stickers.
Fitness enthusiasts will be able to get cycling directions on Maps. For more awesome iOS 14 features, visit the preview page on Apple’s website.
*NOTE: This article has been updated to reflect the official iOS 14 release date as announced by Apple.