Technology is advancing at an increasingly rapid pace, and it seems companies are always upgrading to the next big thing. Software updates are nothing new to smartphone owners. However, iOS7, the latest version of software for iPhone 4, 4S and 5, caused quite a stir across campus and the world when it became available on Friday, Sept. 20.
According to Apple’s website, iOS7 completely changed the look and usage of the iPhone with an all-new design and all-new features. The goal of the new update was usefulness and an attention to the details.
“I really like the new update,” sophomore Kellie Goedken said. “The new design makes everything look more impressive and new.”
An Apple promotional video describes iOS7’s design as a “representation of the goals of simplicity and clarity.”
The icons for the applications and functions on the iPhone have been completely redesigned, and there’s a new color scheme. The design gives a more three-dimensional feel to the iPhone, with the ability to zoom in and out of applications.
The control panel can now be accessed with an upwards swipe of the figure. Along with airplane mode and multiple shortcuts, a flashlight function has been added to this panel. The camera and photo functions now have different options for taking and organizing pictures.
One of the most talked-about features of the new software was the addition of iTunes Radio, which is comparable to Pandora or Spotify. The music library also received a makeover that allows iPhone users to browse a mosaic of their album artwork.
With all the changes implemented in the iOS7 update, the time it takes to download the update is rather extensive.
“It took me a couple hours to download the update, and I didn’t like it at first, but the more I use it, the more it grows on me,” sophomore Sarah Tegtmeier said.
Even those who do not have iPhones have opinions on the iOS7 update.
“I think that the update is rather nice for the iOS7,” said Aaron Norman, a computer science major junior. “I would suggest getting it.”