There’s more than just the iPhone 5 to be excited about this week: iOS 6 is available for download on Wednesday.
But will your iPhone support all of the great new features? For those who preordered an iPhone 5 and will receive it this Friday, you have nothing to worry about. The same goes for those who bought an iPhone 4S last year.
If you own an iPhone 4 or earlier, however, you won’t be able to take advantage of some of the new features, including…
NO PANORAMIC PHOTOS
One of the cool new features of iOS 6 is the panoramic photo option that allows you to take a stunning, stretched-out landscape shots. Unfortunately, it’s only available on the iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S.
Why is that?
Because that new feature requires at least a dual-core processor A5. The new iPhone 5 uses an A6 chip.
SORRY, NO SIRI
Apple’s personal assistant isn’t making a new appearance on the iPhone 4 with the new operating system.
The new Siri works in many more countries and can answer a bevy of new answers, including movie reviews and sports scores, and can also open apps on command.
Siri will also be used more to update Facebook statuses now that Facebook will be completely integrated into the operating system.
TURN-BY-TURN DIRECTIONS
Apple will release its brand new Maps app on Wednesday with iOS 6, which offers stellar 3D views and turn-by-turn directions, announced by Siri.
You’ll need at least an iPhone 4S, however, to take advantage of this feature.
I have an iPhone 4 — What is new for me?
Of course, iPhone 4 users aren’t totally left in the dark on the iOS 6 release. You’ll take advantage of completely remodeled iBooks, iTunes and App stores, improved Mail app, and FaceTime over cellular, if your carrier allows for it.
Actual phone calls will also be much improved with iOS 6. If you ever have to decline a call, you now have the option to send a quick text message to the caller and even set a reminder to call the person back.
Passbook is also an exciting new app that will allow you to keep all of your loyalty and gift cards in one place and utilize as your personal e-wallet.
iOS 6 will be available for download Wednesday for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch as an over-the-air update.