Apple's iOS9: A look at the new operating system

Less power hungry, economical with memory and a smarter Siri - these are all promised in the ninth version of Apple's iOS mobile-device operating system, due for all iPhones from the 4S up this autumn. Here's an overview of the new functions: - Power Saving Mode: Competitors have had this for some time, but now iPhones and iPads are also getting power-saving mode. Apple hasn't given details yet, but the rival devices achieve this by switching off functions like WiFi when not in use, dimming the screen and turning off background refresh.
- Reduced memory consumption: iOS9 will use considerably less memory than previous versions. Software updates will also take up less space and will only be installed on request, when the device is not in use. - Transport information: In certain nations, the Maps app will now show public transport timetables and routes while a new "Nearby" function will allow users to search for restaurants, businesses or sights worth seeing in their vicinity.
- Siri update: The digital assistant is being updated to be more like the Google version, in that it will foresee and support the usage behaviour of the smartphone owner. For example, based on traffic conditions, Siri might recommend that now is the time to depart for an important appointment. Or it might note the user's preferred music and recommend similar bands or singers. This will be possible without large data analysis or impinging on the user's privacy, Apple says.
- New iPad features: iPad users will be able to use two apps simultaneously, something that hasn't been possible so far. The apps will be displayed side by side on the screen. There will also be picture-in-picture mode that'll put videos and FaceTime calls in a corner of the screen while you use another app.
- New apps: The Newsstand app will be replaced by a new app that will make recommendations and which will be customisable. The Notes app will also change - allowing sketches to be drawn and pictures to integrated into notes. Passbook is becoming Wallet and will incorporate Apple Pay, the company's mobile payment platform.
- Security: The four-digit passcode has had its day, the new standard will use six digits. Alternatively, there's fingerprinting unlocking. Two-factor authentication, currently optional, will in future be an integral part of iOS.