Key takeaways:
- iOS 12 is compatible with a wide range of iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch models
- You can install iOS 12 wirelessly through the Settings app or using iTunes on your computer
- iOS 12 brings performance improvements, new features, and enhanced privacy and security
- Make sure to backup your device before updating to iOS 12
iOS 12 is a major update to Apple’s mobile operating system, bringing performance improvements, new features, and enhanced privacy and security to iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of downloading and installing iOS 12 on your device.
Table of Contents
Compatibility
Before you start, make sure your device is compatible with iOS 12. The following models are supported:
iPhones:
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
- iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone SE, iPhone 5s
iPads:
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation)
- 10.5-inch iPad Pro, 9.7-inch iPad Pro
- iPad (6th generation), iPad (5th generation)
- iPad Air 2, iPad Air
- iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2
iPod Touch:
- iPod touch (6th generation)
Wireless Installation
The easiest way to install iOS 12 is wirelessly through the Settings app on your device. Here’s how:
- Connect your device to a Wi-Fi network and plug it into a power source.
- Open the Settings app and tap on “General”.
- Tap on “Software Update”. Your device will check for available updates.
- If iOS 12 is available, tap on “Download and Install”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Installation Using iTunes
If you prefer, you can also install iOS 12 using iTunes on your computer. Here’s how:
- Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer.
- Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open iTunes and select your device from the top-left corner.
- Click on “Summary” and then click on “Check for Update”.
- If iOS 12 is available, click on “Download and Update”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
New Features and Improvements
iOS 12 brings a host of new features and improvements to your device, including:
- Performance improvements: iOS 12 is designed to make your device faster and more responsive, with up to 70% faster swipe to Camera, up to 50% faster keyboard display, and up to 2x faster app launch under heavy workload.
- Screen Time: A new feature that helps you understand and manage your device usage, with detailed reports and tools to set limits for specific apps or categories of apps.
- Memoji and Animoji: Create a Memoji, a personalized Animoji, to match your personality and mood, and use it in Messages and FaceTime.
- Group FaceTime: Engage in FaceTime video calls with up to 32 people simultaneously, with support for Memoji, Animoji, and other fun effects.
- Siri Shortcuts: A new feature that allows you to create custom shortcuts for Siri, enabling you to quickly perform frequent tasks with a simple voice command.
- Enhanced privacy and security: iOS 12 includes new privacy and security features, such as enhanced Intelligent Tracking Prevention in Safari, and stronger password management and authentication.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Performance improvements | Faster app launch, keyboard display, and swipe to Camera |
| Screen Time | Understand and manage your device usage |
| Memoji and Animoji | Create personalized Animoji and use them in Messages and FaceTime |
| Group FaceTime | Engage in video calls with up to 32 people simultaneously |
| Siri Shortcuts | Create custom shortcuts for Siri to quickly perform frequent tasks |
| Enhanced privacy and security | Stronger password management, authentication, and tracking prevention |
FAQ
Q: Will installing iOS 12 delete my data?
A: No, installing iOS 12 will not delete your data. However, it’s always a good idea to backup your device before updating to a new version of iOS, just in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
Q: How long does it take to install iOS 12?
A: The installation time varies depending on your device and internet connection speed. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to download and install iOS 12 wirelessly. If you’re installing using iTunes, it may take a bit longer.
Q: Can I downgrade from iOS 12 to an earlier version of iOS?
A: No, once you’ve installed iOS 12, you cannot downgrade to an earlier version of iOS. Apple stops signing older versions of iOS shortly after a new version is released, making it impossible to downgrade.
Q: Will my existing apps work with iOS 12?
A: Most apps that worked with iOS 11 should work with iOS 12 without any issues. However, some older apps that haven’t been updated in a while may not be compatible. If you encounter any issues with a specific app after updating to iOS 12, check the App Store for any available updates or contact the app developer for support.
iOS 12 is a significant update that brings performance improvements, new features, and enhanced privacy and security to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily download and install iOS 12 on your device and start enjoying all the new features and improvements it has to offer.
