The iOS 8 update is here, with Apple confirming making the platform available last September 17. There are several ways to prepare devices for the platform for those who have not upgraded yet.
Users who want to download the update will have to prepare their devices before downloading the latest OS to ensure optimum performance without losing their important data. Several tech blogs and websites have already released their list of things to do before updating to iOS 8 - here are some key preparations.
Check for Compatibility
This is first on Know Your Mobile's list, and is implied in Gotta Be Mobile's first item on their list. Users have to research about not only about the compatibility of their iPhone or iPad devices, but also about the features that will change once they upgrade. While it's always good to upgrade to the latest software to ensure app compatibility and optimal performance, some users may not like the changes that come with the iOS 8.
According to Know Your Mobile, iOS 8 will not run on iPhone 4 and earlier models, as well as 4th-generation iPod Touch devices and below. It will also not run on the first-generation iPad. The newer devices, from the iPhone 4s, the 5th generation iPod Touch, the iPad 2 and above and iPad Mini and above, will be able to run on iOS 8.
Create a Back-Up of Existing Files
Almost every how-to guide avaialble cites this step as the most important preparation to take before updating to iOS 8 - in fact, it's first on MacWorld's list. Create a back-up of the device on a computer using iTunes, and also back up data - contacts, files, media - on iCloud. This gives users two advantages: first, they don't lose the files that they already have saved on their iPhone or iPad devices; and second, they can restore the devices to their last saved state should something go wrong with the iOS update (of if they just want to revert back to iOS 7).
Users may go to Settings > iCloud > Back-Up Now to create a back-up of files on their iCloud account. Back up apps and other data using iTunes on a desktop computer.
Upgrade to the Latest Version of iOS 7 - and Have a Copy
According to MacWorld and Know Your Mobile, some iOS devices may require the latest version of iOS 7 before allowing the user to upgrade to iOS 8. Check with Apple to see the most updated version of iOS 7, and check the settings of the device to see if it is running the same iOS 7 version.
MacWorld also suggests that users should also have a back-up copy of the latest iOS 7 IPSW, in case they want to revert to this version after downloading the iOS 8. This will be saved in the iTunes library folder if the user has not updated to iOS 8 yet; it will be deleted and replaced with the latest IPSW once the update done. Get a copy of the IPSW before updating to be sure.
Update or Remove Apps
According to Gotta Be Mobile, the coming of the iOS 8 update is a chance to clean up apps that are no longer being used, and also to update existing apps to ensure compatibility with the latest OS. IPhone and iPad owners should update the apps they use regularly and check if the current versions are compatible with iOS 8, and delete apps that they no longer use to free up space. The additional space will help ensure the iOS 8 installation goes smoothly, as it may require bigger space from the device.
Charge the iPhone or iPad Fully
Gotta Be Mobile included this in their list because as simple as it sounds, some people forget to charge their device before updating, hence running out of juice in the middle of an update. Make sure it has at least 50% power before updating, and charge it to full capacity if possible before the update. Users may also check avaialble power outlets nearby during the update, in case it takes longer than the available battery life is able to support.
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