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iOS 6 update now available for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad

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If you want to see what the new iPhone 5 is like a bit early, chances are you can if you have an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad already. Apple’s new iOS 6 software is now available as a free update on certain devices.

The update will be available as a free download either over the air on your device itself, or by plugging it in to a PC or Mac and using iTunes. It’s the latest software for iOS devices, and it brings in plenty of fixes, changes and new features – over 200 new features, according to Apple.

So what exactly does iOS 6 entail, and is it worth the time spent updating? Major new features include Apple’s own Maps app instead of Google’s, a whole host of new functions for Siri, including bringing it to the iPad 2 and iPad 3, and the addition of Facebook integration across the system.

Siri will be able to search for local restaurants and places here in the UK – something our US friends have had since the launch of the iPhone 4S, but we’ve missed out on. You’ll also be able to update your Facebook status or ask Siri to find you the latest sports scores for your team.

Facebook integration will mean one touch posting to the social network from apps like Photos, Contacts, Email and more. You’ll also be able to tap in the Notification Centre to send a Tweet or update your Facebook status.

Our favourite feature of iOS 6 is the new Apple Maps, for its 3D map feature mainly. Major cities across the world can be viewed in 3D as if you’re looking at an aerial map, and this feature also ties in with sat-nav-style turn-by-turn navigation, which looks awesome.

The update will be available for the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad 2, iPad 3 and iPod Touch 4th Generation. You can either connect your device to a PC or Mac and open up iTunes to be notified of the update, or connect your device to Wi-Fi and follow these steps:

Settings > General > Software Update

You should see the screen above, which means you’re ready to download the update. We’d recommend backing up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes before doing anything, just in case. Let us know how you get on with iOS 6!

Let us know your thoughts on our comments below or via our @Gadget_Helpline Twitter page or Official Facebook group.