Apple unveiled two new iPads and two new Apple Watches at its big September event this week – with most of them already available for purchase via the Apple Store. But it’s not just hardware that was released this week.
Tim Cook also shocked developers everywhere with the surprise release of all the new software updates first announced at WWDC back in June. Despite the iPhone 12 launch being delayed this year, iOS 14 is now available to the public. As is iPadOS 14, watchOS 7, and tvOS 14.
If you have Automatic Updates enabled in Settings, you may already have the latest software. But if not, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect from each platform, and how to install the updates.
iPhone
iOS 14 brings with it some exciting new features like App Clips, the App Library, and improved Widgets that can be placed on your Home Screen. There’s also Picture in Picture video, a new Translate app, and much more. iOS 14 is compatible with iPhone 6s and newer iPhones.
To get iOS 14, open the Settings app on your iPhone and head to General, then Software Update.
iPad
iPadOS 14 has most of the same improvements as iOS, plus impressive handwriting recognition features for the Apple Pencil. Some apps have also been redesigned with a new Sidebar layout reminiscent of macOS. iPadOS 14 is compatible with iPad 5th-gen and newer, iPad Air 2 and newer, iPad mini 4 and newer, and all models of iPad Pro.
To get iPadOS 14, open the Settings app on your iPad and head to General, then Software Update.
Apple Watch
watchOS 7 brings new watch faces and complications, automatic handwashing detection, and new workout types. It’s compatible with Apple Watch Series 3 and beyond, and you’ll also need an iPhone running iOS 14.
To get watchOS 7, open the Watch app on your iPhone and head to General, then Software Update.
Apple TV
tvOS 14 brings Picture in Picture video, Game Center, support for HomeKit cameras and accessories, and more compatibility with 4K streams to the Apple TV. It’s compatible with the 4th-generation Apple TV and its 4K sibling.
To get tvOS 14, open the Settings app on your Apple TV and head to System, then Software Update.