Overview of all iOS versions
Since the first iOS version, nine different versions have appeared within nine years. Apple updates its devices every year. We show you which functions were contained in which updates.
iOS 1 to iOS 3: the beginning of the iPhone and iPod Touch
Until the release of iOS 4, the term "iOS" did not even exist. Previously, new firmware versions were only referred to as "iPhoneOS" or "iPhone Software". Up to iOS 4, major updates were even chargeable for users of the iPod Touch: new functions were only available for 8.99 euros.
- iOS 1.0: The first version, code-named "Alpine", was completed on January 9, 2007. However, no publication ever took place. The first iPhone with this firmware may have been presented.
- iOS 1.0.0: The first iOS version with the first iPhone was released on June 29, 2007 under the code name "Heavenly". Today's standard apps such as mail, calendar and messages were largely available even then. In later updates like iOS 1.1.1, numerous small functions were added - the iTunes Store also only came with an update.
- iOS 2: Released in July 2008, iOS 2 included the App Store, among other things. Previously, only the standard Apple apps were available. Even emojis, which are used much more frequently today, were only introduced with iOS 2.2.
- iOS 3: In June 2009, Apple released numerous new functions with iOS 3: texts could be copied and pasted, MMS messages were supported, spotlight search, voice control, tethering and the "Find my iPhone" function were introduced. For the first iPhone, the last supported version was reached with iOS 3.1.3.
iOS 4 to iOS 6: Progress continues
- iOS 4: In summer 2010, iOS became more and more what we know it today. Thanks to multitasking, apps continue to run in the background, the Skype alternative "FaceTime" has been introduced, folders can be created, app manufacturers can integrate advertising and the lockscreen image can now be changed. The AirPrint and AirPlay functions followed with iOS 4.2.
- iOS 5: In October 2011 the time was ripe for iOS 5. The message center, the voice assistant Siri and the iCloud are introduced - three functions that are still an integral part of iOS today. Apple also presented iMessage, the newspaper kiosk and the memories here.
- iOS 6: In September 2012, Apple launched its competitor product for Google Maps with the simple name "Maps". After Twitter, a general integration of Facebook into the system is now being carried out. Photos can be synchronized on multiple devices via photo stream and the Passbook app is also available for the first time. Almost every system app has been heavily revised by Apple on iOS 6.
iOS 7 to iOS 9: iPhone, iPad and iPod in a new design
- iOS 7: iOS 7 has been available for download since September 2013. A lot has changed visually: All app icons have been redrawn and provide a fresh look, as can still be seen under iOS 9. Apple can report new functions to the control center, AirDrop, CarPlay and iTunes Radio.
- iOS 8: In September 2014, iOS 8 was released with the iPhone 6. With Health you can now monitor your health, the QuickType keyboard has been introduced and Apple is annoying its users with the Tips app. Instead of major changes, there were numerous minor improvements, for example the slow motion function of the camera app.
- iOS 9: Even under iOS 9 it seemed difficult for Apple to provide the mobile operating system with exciting functions. The news app is new, but is still not available in Germany six months later. In addition to optical adjustments, the Night Shift function was also introduced. On newer iPads, the screen can also be split and a picture-in-picture function can be used.
Would you like to use tomorrow's iOS today? In the next practical tip, we will show you how to install the latest iOS beta.