Apple iOS 6 Is Now Available for Download

Ahead of the iPhone 5 launch, Apple has released its iOS 6 software upgrade.

Sept. 18, 2012 — -- Sure, the iPhone 5 comes out on Friday, but you can now get Apple's latest iOS 6 software on your iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad. Apple has just confirmed that its ready for download through iTunes and as an over-the-air update to your device if you are on a Wi-Fi network.

Users should be promoted to download the new software. Download times will depend on the speed of one's Internet connection.

The update isn't available for all devices, however. If you have a first-generation iPad or the iPhone 3G you won't be able to upgrade. That said, it is available for most of Apple's most recent devices, including the iPad 2, new iPad, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, and the iPhone 4S. It will also be available for fourth generation iPod Touch owners.

The new operating system has a host of new features, including Apple's new Maps app, Passbook app, and Facebook integration. We have a full review and look at some of the new features here.

The iPhone 5 will ship with iOS 6 starting this Friday, Sept. 21. Apple announced earlier this week that it had already sold 2 million iPhone 5s in the first 24 hours after they went on sale. The new phone has an improved design, bigger 4-inch screen, LTE, a faster processor, and new dock connector.

READ OUR IOS 6 REVIEW AND FEATURE GUIDE.