iOS 8 Features: Here's Everything That's Changed

What's New In iOS 8?
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Apple iOS 8 is out today. Ok so actually it'll be available to download from 6pm BST. Along with a new number iOS 8 has hundreds of new features, most of which are hidden but some will revolutionise the way you use your iPhone or iPad.

Before you even consider updating it's important that you backup your iPhone. Even if you have WiFi backup enabled it's better to be safe than sorry and either wirelessly backup now or plug it into your computer and manually push it all up to iCloud.

This will protect your photos, messages and settings from what could be a problematic download process. With millions of devices expected to download the update in one evening there's every chance that you won't be able to download it first time around.

Our best piece of advice would be to wait until the morning, or, if you're really patient: Wait until Apple automatically pushes the update to your phone. You'll see a small notification on top of the settings app giving you the cue to download iOS 8.

For now though take a look at all the new features that you can look forward to on your iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c. It'll also be available for recent generation iPad's and iPod Touch's.

Apple iOS 8 Features
Third-Party Keyboards(01 of10)
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They're finally here. You can download and use third-party keyboards with the iPhone. While Apple has clearly perfected the on-screen keyboard you'll be able to choose from a range of alternatives including Swiftkey and Swype.
Instant Repy(02 of10)
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Rather than having to open the app you've had the notification from you can simply swipe down and deal with it through the Notifications bar. (credit:Apple)
Multi-tasking 2.0(03 of10)
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The multi-tasking screen now shows a list of recent and favourite contacts at the top allowing you to perform quick actions like sending messages or making calls. (credit:Apple)
Apple Keyboard 2.0(04 of10)
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Apple has taken its already exemplary keyboard and thrown in some new features including auto-predict. (credit:Apple)
iCloud Drive(05 of10)
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Apple is taking on Dropbox with its own in-Mac cloud drive that you can drag files to on Mac, iOS and Windows. (credit:Apple)
Health(06 of10)
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This is a brand-new app that'll appear on your homescreen. It compiles all your health data from third-party apps and places it into one cohesive picture of your health. For some this will be a game-changer, for others it'll be another app to dump in a folder. (credit:Apple)
Siri 2.0(07 of10)
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Siri has been given a significant overhaul with Shazam integration as standard as well as the ability to purchase iTunes content. (credit:Apple)
Touch ID App Support(08 of10)
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Third-party apps now have access to Touch ID so you can login, authenticate purchases and access your own data using the fingerprint sensor. Of course none of these apps will have access to your fingerprint data as even Apple doesn't. (credit:Apple)
Metal(09 of10)
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You'll never seen Metal, only its effects. Metal is a new software update for developers that should massively change your iPhone's ability to power games. Your iPhone 5 and 5s will reap the most benefit with games looking much better and running much smoother. (credit:Apple)
HomeKit(10 of10)
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This is a slow burner but as you start buying smart home equipment you'll start noticing the difference. Apple has opened up iOS 8 to smart home tech including smart locks and smart garages so you can use iOS 8 to control your home. (credit:Apple)