iOS 9 brings Multi-Tasking for iPad, intelligent search with Siri and more

Apple at WWDC developer conference, previewed iOS 9, its upcoming OS for iPhone, iPad and iPad touch. The new update brings intelligent search with Siri, new multi-tasking features specifically for iPad and improved in-built apps, without compromising user's privacy.

In iOS 9, Apple's voice assistant Siri features an all-new design. It becomes more intelligent and proactive with improved features. There is a new search screen, where Siri will show you suggested contacts, nearby places, apps and news depending on contextual information like appointments, time and location. Siri is now able to read your calendar to notify you when you need to leave for appointments, taking traffic conditions into account. It can ID incoming calls that aren't saved by looking into your email or address book. An interesting new feature is the ability to do simple math and unit conversions directly from the search bar. The search bar itself delivers more relevant results from categories including sports scores, schedules and videos.

The iPad gets a new multi-tasking and split-screen feature with iOS 9 update. The new Slide over feature lets you simultaneously open a second app without leaving the first app, and then slide it away when you are done. The Split view feature gives you the ability to have two apps open side by side at the same time. This feature is available in iPad Air 2. Picture-in-Picture lets you continue video of FaceTime call in the corner of the screen while using other apps full screen behind it. Apple's QuickType keyboard gets an all-new Shortcut bar, Multi-Touch gestures and editing tools.

Improved built-in apps include Maps, redesigned Note app and News app. Maps adds support for metropolitan transit systems and schedules while the subway station entrances and exits are precisely mapped. When you are travelling, with the new Nearby feature, you can quickly see what's around by searching for food, drinks, shopping and more.

The redesigned Notes app includes the ability to draw a quick sketch, using your finger. You can also create checklist, snap a photo directly in a note, save item directly from the apps to your notes and sync across your devices with iCloud.

The News app combines magazine, newspaper and blog content and presents it with layouts that match the branding and style of the original sources. It can learn your interest and suggest preferred contents. There will be embedded videos, galleries, infographics and live content. It will be available in the U.S, U.K and Australia.

Apple Pay adds support for Discover, rewards programs from participating store-issued credit and debit cards. You can manage your cards in the new Wallet app (previously called Passbook). Apple Pay will be launching in the UK next month.

System improvements on the iOS 9 include battery optimization, that provides users with and additional hour of battery life. There is also a new low-power mode to extend battery life. Enhanced security features in iOS 9 keeps your Apple devices and Apple ID secure. You will now have a six-digit pass-code and when you use Touch ID, there is a two-factor authentication making it harder for others to gain unauthorized access to your Apple ID.

Apple is also reducing the space requaired for iOS 9 software update. You will need 1.8GB of free space to install iOS 9, compared to the 4.6GB that was required for iOS 8. iOS 9 will runs on iPhone 4s and up and the iPad 2 and up devices.

The iOS 9 update will be available as a free upgrade later this year for iPhone 4s and later, iPod touch 5th generation, iPad 2 and later, iPad mini and later. The iOS 9 beta software and SDK is now available for members of iOS Developer Program at developer.apple.com. The Public beta of iOS 9 will be made available in July at beta.apple.com. 

Source : Apple Press