Apple has released an update to their operating system for mobile devices including the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. This is being haled as version 7.1. It is in an intermediate update with some nice refinements.
- CarPlay is included in this update. This feature announced at the Geneva Auto Show will include integration with some car models promised later this year.
- The Siri interface has a new feature. You can now hold the home button and speak and release when your finished. This will allow Siri to begin researching your request more quickly rather than waiting until it thinks your done speaking. The old method still works as well.
- iTunes Radio gets more refined search to discover music based on artist, etc.
- More options to change the look of your i-device including bold text, reducing motion in more native Apple apps, and darkening app colors.
- Other interfaces get a few tweaks. The phone app has some button shapes.
- The calendar agenda view returns, and you can option adding many holidays.
- There are plenty of bug fixes in this update. The new OS seems zippier. The random white screen of death issue has been addressed. Performance on iPhone 4’s has been improved.
Most can get the update now by going to Software Update in the settings. Allow for a good hour or so for the total update. Device downtime will likely be about 20 minutes depending on your device (16 minutes on an iPhone 5).