iOS 13 update , features list
The iOS 13 update is here to introduce extra features to your old iPhone, offering new software perks even if you haven't upgraded to Apple's latest and greatest the iPhone 11 line.
In fact, Apple has released several iOS 13 updates starting with the iOS 13.1 update that was pushed out barely a week later. These have brought a number of crucial bug fixes and even more new features, culminating in the latest iOS 13.4, which brings iCloud sharing, and new Memojis .
Dark Mode is the best iOS 13 feature and the most visual change. It inverts white and light gray colors for less eye-straining black and dark grays – at least in major apps.
iOS 13 compatibility
iOS 13 is compatible with a lot of iPhones – as long you have the iPhone 6S or iPhone SE or newer. Yes, that means both iPhone 5S and iPhone 6 don't make the list and are forever stuck with iOS 12.4.1, but Apple didn't make any cuts for iOS 12, so it's just catching up in 2019. Fair.
iOS 13 is not coming to the iPad
Tricked you. iOS 13 is strictly for the iPhone (and iPod Touch). iPad OS has debuted for iPad with exclusive productivity features for the bigger tablet screen.
Key Stuff
'Find my iPhone' and 'Find my Friends' are fused
The two apps are now in one 'Find My' app, and Apple's added in functionality that can find offline devices from other iPhones or iPads. Best of all, we got fewer timed out tracking errors.
iOS 13 improves battery life
By that we mean 'lifetime of the battery' not 'time between charges' - the new iOS 13 platform is smarter at charging and will curtail the power input at the right times. Dark mode should help too on iPhone OLED displays, though we're testing that.
Reminders gets a huge (and useful) overhaul
A clear new design, Reminders now allows for attachments and better sorting. Might not sound massive, but a big jump for those that use it.
The camera is getting a big upgrade
Portrait mode (if your phone supports it) will offer more customizable lighting and a new 'High Key Mono' mode for when you want to look like you're in a Calvin Klein advert.
Siri sounds better: A refined voice with more natural diction, Siri is much nicer to talk to now. You might not notice it without a side-by-side comparison, but it's here.
All new Memoji to play with
You can add make-up, throw in Memoji stickers from the keyboard - if you're into your own cartoon face there's a lot to try here. iOS 13 pro tip: Stickers works on iPhone 8 and older iPhones, even if you don't have the TrueDepth camera for moving Memoji.
We love this: long-press (or 3D Touch for certain iPhone models) on the Wi-Fi / Bluetooth buttons in the Control Center and you can access all your connections in one simple place.
Use your PS4 controller on your phone
Does what it says... now you can pair your console controller to play games in a more immersive way. PS4 support is here today, while Xbox One support is coming. Perfect for Apple Arcade.
