How many times have you seen someone else’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running an old version of iOS that is not backed up and has tons of app updates waiting to be attended to? It’s extremely common for iOS hardware to go neglected by those who are less tech savvy. Here are some super simple maintenance tips for iOS – the focus will be on four primary aspects; setting up device backups to iCloud, ditching ancient unused apps, updating the other apps to the newest versions, and updating iOS to the latest version available.
1: Set Up iOS Backups to iCloud
Regularly backing up your device is almost a must, and Apple makes it super easy for iOS devices thanks to iCloud. But many users don’t use this free backup service, so you should take a moment to turn it for yourself or your less tech-savvy friends, then to do a manual backup:
- Go to “Settings” and to “iCloud” *
- Choose “Backup” and be sure ‘iCloud Backup’ is turned ON, then tap on “Back Up Now” to start a new manual backup to iCloud
2: Clean Out Their Junk Apps
Just about everyone with an iOS device has a handful of junk apps that they downloaded, opened once, and never touched again. This stuff just clutters up iOS and takes up space and if it doesn’t get use, it may as well be uninstalled. You’ll need to work with whoever owns the iPad or iPhone to figure out what apps these are and if they are critical or waiting for just the right opportunity, so don’t go ditching apps without asking.
3: Update iOS Apps
Updating apps is almost always a good idea, with new features, bug fixes, and improved compatibility with the latest versions of system software, and it’s easy too:
- Open the App Store and head to the “Updates” tab
- Choose “Update All” (perhaps ask permission first, they may have a favourite app that they prefer an older version to, like many users who hoard the ancient Twitter for iPad client)
4: Update iOS to the Newest Version Available
Updating most hardware to the newest versions of iOS is good practice, bringing new features, bug fixes, and various feature improvements. Updating iOS should only be done after a device has been backed up, so be sure you completed a backup to iCloud (or iTunes) before doing this, and be sure the hardware is new enough to adequately run the latest iOS versions:
- Go to “Settings” and to “General”
- Choose “Software Update” and if there is an update available, download & install it
As long as the hardware is on the newer side, the latest versions of iOS should run great and be an improvement with new features and better performance.
If you need any help on your iPhone iPad or Mac iOS update then feel free to call us today on 09 4448823 or send us an email at enquiries@advancedcomputers.co.nz and we are happy to give you more advice in detail.