iOS 8's public release date is finally here!
Apple has never set a specific time to offer new iOS versions, but past releases have typically begun rolling out at 1pm EST. The actual time varies for each user, however, as TIME's Doug Aamoth notes that sometimes he's received the download right at 1pm and other times he's had to wait a couple hours.
While you will eventually be prompted to download iOS 8 in a popup message, for those looking to update immediately as it becomes available, you can check for the release manually, as well. Simply head to Settings > General > Software Update.
With the highly-anticipated launch just around the corner, now is the absolute last chance to make sure you're prepared. Although it may seem as simple as downloading the latest update, there are some steps you should take before switching your iPhone or iPad to iOS 8.
Here are Know Your Mobile's five tips to ensure you're ready to download:
1.) Check to see if your device is iOS 8 capable
The only device that didn't make the final list for compatibility is the iPhone 4, as the update is available for users of the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 4S, iPod touch fifth-gen, iPad 2, iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina Display, iPad mini, iPad 4, and iPad 3.
2.) Make sure you have enough space for the update
iOS 7 required 700MB of space and while its unknown how much its successor will require, you can be sure its going to be similarly large amount. Apple will prompt you before downloading if you do not have enough space, so either way you will either have to get rid of some unnecessary apps, photos, music/TV shows/movies or other data you might not need right on your device (there's always iCloud).
3.) Is your device running iOS 7.1.2?
To update to iOS 8, you'll likely need to be up to date with the latest iOS 7 version, meaning you won't be able to switch unless you're running iOS 7.1.2.
4.) Do you have the latest version of your apps?
If you don't want to lose your app or its data, make sure they are up to date. This will also ensure you get the most out your apps in iOS 8, as they will have been tinkered with for iOS 8 integration.
5.) Back up your device!
This is the most important step you need to take before updating. While everything is done to ensure the transition to iOS 8 goes smoothly, major updates can go awry. To back up, simply follow these steps:
a.) Connect your iPhone or iPad into your Mac or PC and open iTunes.
b.) Select your device under Source and select "Summary."
c.) Under "Backups" select "This Computer" and then "Back Up Now."
Now you're ready to go - happy iOS 8 launch day!
