BREAKING -- iOS 7 download now available for all compatible iPhone, iPad and iPod touch models

12:57 PM

Just as promised, Apple on Wednesday released the final version of its brand new iOS 7 operating system to the public. The new mobile software is available immediately for the iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPad (third and fourth generations), iPad 2, iPad mini and iPod touch (fifth generation). We called iOS 7 a major renovation that for the most part lacked real innovation when we previewed the software back in June. In our full iOS 7 review earlier this week, however, we explained why that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

UPDATE: iOS 7.0.1 has already been released for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c, according to 9to5Mac. The update fixes a Touch ID bug and users will be prompted to update as soon as they receive their new devices.

iOS 7 represents the biggest overhaul to Apple’s massively popular mobile operating system since it debuted in 2007, and now it’s finally available to the public. It also lays the groundwork for some real innovation in future iOS versions, and many will be waiting anxiously to be wowed by more than just a new design in iOS 8 next year.

Last year when Apple released iOS 6, more than 100 million people installed the update within its first week of availability. As such, patience will likely be a virtue since Apple’s servers will undoubtedly be hammered in the hours and days to come as people seek out the latest and greatest Apple has to offer.

Some key features in Apple’s new iOS 7 software include the redesigned Notification Center, the brand new Control Center that provides quick access to various apps and settings, a new app switcher interface, AirDrop file-sharing, iTunes Radio and of course a fresh new look that users seem to prefer by a wide margin over iOS’s old interface.

The brand new iOS 7 update can be installed over the air (OTA) by opening the Settings app on your device and tapping on General > Software Update and following the on-screen instructions. iOS 7 can also be downloaded shortly via iTunes, and it requires Apple’s newly released iTunes 11.1 update in order to install. iTunes 11 can be download from Apple’s website.

Be sure to check out our full review of iOS 7, which can be found here.

BREAKING -- It's official: Invitations go out for Apple’s September 10th iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C event

12:05 PM

The wait is almost over — for real this time. After a false alarm early Tuesday morning, Apple on Tuesday sent invitations to the media for a press conference in Cupertino on September 10th. At the event, Apple is expected to end months upon months of leaks, rumors and speculation by finally unveiling the flagship iPhone 5S and the brand new iPhone 5C.

Apple’s new iPhone 5S is expected to look a lot like the current iPhone 5, but it is said to feature a faster processor, an upgraded camera with a dual-LED flash and a major internal overhaul that will likely make room for a fingerprint scanner. It will also seemingly be available in two new colors: champagne gold and a new lighter gray color.

Also expected to debut next Tuesday is the mid-range iPhone 5C, which won’t feature cutting-edge specs but it should sport a price tag somewhere near $400 and a plastic case that comes at least five different colors. Apple is expected to offer the 5C for free on contract in many markets, and it will also help the company make inroads in developing markets where its flagship iPhones have been a bit to pricey to compete with bargain-bin Android phones and Nokia’s Asha lineup.

Apple will be announcing iOS 7 launch timing as well during its press conference in Cupertino next week, and we might also see one or two surprises. Be sure to tune in to BGR next Tuesday, where we’ll be covering all the latest iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C and iOS 7 news as it breaks.

Here is an image of Apple’s event invitation, which was published by The Loop.

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