What Should Be Included in iOS 6

When a new Apple device gets released, an OS update usually follows. It has been some time now since the release of the new iPad, so consumers are eagerly waiting for an updated operating system, dubbed iOS 6. Below are a list of useful features that should be included in iOS 6. Not all will actually be included in the new OS, although some are well-founded rumors.

Siri
Those who own iPads or older generation iPhones are jealous of the iPhone 4S’s assistant Siri. Siri is totally dependent on the operating system, not hardware, so making Siri available to all iDevices isn’t such a long shot and would be most welcomed. However, being one of the iPhone 4S’s biggest selling points, Apple might not want to give up that foothold. Another awesome feature I’d like to see in iOS 6’s Siri is conditional reminders, such as “remind me to get the mail if I get home after 3pm”. Location services are already possible, so time integration shouldn’t be an issue. Plus, I don’t want to check the mail before 3pm, since my mailman probably hasn’t stopped by our route yet.

Multitasking
Yes, iDevices can multitask already, but it’s not very beautiful or effective. Having to tap the home button twice is inherently clunky, but that’s not the only thing that could change. Running apps side by side (on the iPad specifically), something which Windows 8 Metro already features, is something I’ll personally be looking forward to. Rather than having to constantly switch back and forth between Safari and Notes, users could have one open on the left for research and the other on the right to take notes. It’s definitely feasible and would greatly increase productivity, especially on the iPad which already sports plenty of real estate.

Maps
Another well-founded rumor is that iOS 6 will drop usage of Google Maps from the native Maps app. Instead, it will make use of an in-house, 3D map. Now, I don’t mind Apple moving away from the Google Maps foundation, but the 3D rending slightly bothers me if the 2D version is done away with. Sure, 3D looks nify, but it’s not very practical. Ariel view provides a huge scope and it’s easy to see where you need to go next; however, a 3D view doesn’t allow you to see what’s around the corner or behind a building. Another improvement iOS 6 will hopefully bring to Maps is a genuine GPS feature with turn-by-turn voice directions

Facebook Integration
iOS 5 make way for native Twitter integration. Why not allow Facebook to join the party? Also, users should be allowed to choose either, both, or neither application integrations. I hate seeing the “Tweet” option wasting

Homescreen
The grid homescreen has been the same since the beginning of Apple’s touch-capable lines (besides the ability to select your own wallpaper and a few very minor UI changes). Windows and Android phones both feature live updates of specific elements on their homescreens. I’d like to see something just as innovative from Apple. The grid-look is getting a little old and less inspiring now.

Native Jailbreak Features
Bring SBSettings and Activator on as a native part of iOS! I hate feeling so lost and having to go down three menu options to adjust my device’s brightness or toggle the Wifi on an unjailbroken device.

There’s a lot that can and should be done to improve iOS 6. Even more specifically, I’d like to see the iPad’s OS become more functional than other iDevices’. It has so much more potential. Don’t make me use it like a larger iPhone…