Is Apple iOS 8 a flop show?

On the contrary. The biggest iOS upgrade that Apple has released this month promises to take on the might of Android provided the company quickly fixes the bugs that users have been facing with iOS 8, says Shruti Puri.

Popularity of iOS 8 has reached unprecedented levels because of the features that it promises to provide. In fact, one of the reasons behind record sales of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus is the advanced features provided by iOS 8. After the launch of this operating system, millions of Apple users have updated their devices. However, users later reported issues regarding download and consequent uses of the new software.

Let's look at the major problems this update brought with it and the possible solutions for the same:

Problem #1: Storage space during download

The first issue reported is during the download of software itself. It consumes lot of storage space and the time required to install is quite long, which has annoyed many users. iOS 8 consumes around 1GB storage space on an Apple device. However, while downloading iOS 8, the software asks for a minimum of 5GB free space.

If you have already loaded your iOS 8 compatible device (iPhone 4S and above; iPad Air; iPad 2 and above; iPad Mini Retina; or iPod Touch-5th Generation) with images, videos, and others apps, then it might be problematic for you to download the update.

This issue is predominant in handsets having 8GB storage space. Last week, the new Apple OS became available for download free of cost.

Solution

This issue of download space requirement is not only frustrating but annoying too. Therefore, it became a priority to find a way out.

The download can be done through iTunes. However, it should be kept in mind that it should be iTunes 11.4 version.

Issue #2: Touch ID function stops and users lose their cellphone network

If you have an older Apple device, you may find problem in working with it after the update. Some of the installed applications stop working once the new version of Apple OS is installed.

After installing iOS 8, many users confronted problems like ceasing of proper functioning of Touch ID and many lost their cellphone service. This is perhaps the most annoying problem faced by the users because it affects the basic function of the phone.

Solution

Apple was prompt in addressing the issue. The company pulled out the concerned software update and promised its users to investigate the matter and come up with a solution soon. Apple confirmed the issue on September 25 and made an announcement. They acknowledged that there is a bug that needs to be worked upon. This issue affects new Apple smartphones (iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 6) only. The company has assured fixing the problem in the coming few days.

Apple has also announced a workaround to the problem too. They have issued a guideline that needs to be followed while reinstalling iOS 8.0 on Apple devices.

Following these guidelines will help affected users in restoring Touch ID functionality and normal iPhone cell service.

Miscellaneous issues and solutions

Another problem faced by many is a bit peculiar. If the iOS 8 download doesn't work properly on your device it leaves users with no option to go back to the earlier iOS 7 version. Until Apple comes up with a solution, it is likely to give users a very tough time.

In this case the best possible solution for users is to check the list of apps that are compatible with iOS 8 even before installing the new operating system.

The iOS 8 update has fixed some key issues, though:

• One of the most anticipated application as well as feature is Health App. Unfortunately, this has also faced some problem. Most Apple users expected its release along with the release of iOS 8. However, it didn't happen. Apps that are compatible with HealthKit are available on App Store. The bug that prevented HealthKit from being released has been fixed now.
• The bug that prevented some applications from checking out images from Photo Library are now fixed.
• When receiving MMS or SMS, it caused excessive usage of cellular data. This issue has been resolved now.
• 'Ask to Buy' feature embedded in Family Sharing support has been improved.
• Uploading of videos and photos from Safari was not possible initially. This bug has been fixed.
• Restoration of ringtones from iCloud back ups was facing problem. That has been fixed now.

Though there have been some hiccups with installation of iOS 8, this brand new operating system is the biggest Apple upgrade since the first ever release. Some of the features that are making waves are the new keyboard, group messaging option, Continuity feature and family sharing. From now on, users can also name conversations.

This update by Apple has already created a buzz in the market and if these issues get resolved quickly, then it might give Android a run for its money.