Skip to main content

iOS 10 is now available to download

iOS 10 is now available to download

Share this story

The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, standing next to one another.

Apple's biggest update to iOS is now available for existing devices. iOS 10 can be downloaded from the general part of the settings page on compatible iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad devices. It's the biggest update to Apple's mobile operating system so far, with a Siri digital assistant overhaul and a new iMessage interface that integrates stickers, apps, and games.

If you're a Mac user then Apple is enabling a Universal Clipboard on iOS 10, so you can copy text or images from your iPhone and paste them on your Mac without the need for any third-party apps. Apple is also introducing raise to wake with iOS 10, a feature that allows you to lift the phone from your pocket or a desk to see the lock screen and notifications.

Apple's biggest changes, in terms of UI, are evident in the lock screen on iOS 10. Apple is expanding its use of widgets in iOS 10, and you'll be able to interact with notifications and widgets using 3D Touch so you don't even have to launch the app fully to respond to a message or check information. Notifications will also be far richer if you use 3D Touch on them, allowing you to reply or take action on alerts without every opening the app itself.

ios 10 wide

Elsewhere, Apple is overhauling nearly all of its built-in apps. While you can now remove (technically hide) most built-in apps, Apple is refreshing its Photos, Phone, Maps, Music, News, Home, and Messages apps. Messages gets the biggest overhaul, with enlarged emoji, animations for messages, and Apple Music integration. Developers will also be able to integrate their apps into iMessage for the first time. Apple Maps is redesigned in iOS 10, with nearby restaurant suggestions, traffic information, and even the ability to find where you parked your car.

Apple Music has also been redesigned, following an initial launch with a cluttered and confused interface. Apple has overhauled its music app by designing it from the ground up and integrating lyrics into Apple Music. News is also getting a big update with breaking news notifications and subscriptions in iOS 10. Apple is also consolidating its HomeKit efforts into a new Home app that allows you to control and interact with compatible smart home devices.

iOS 10 is now available as a free update for the following devices: iPhone 5 and higher, iPod touch sixth-gen, iPad mini 2 and higher, and iPad 4th generation and the subsequent iPad Air and iPad Pro models.