What is iOS? If you’ve used an iPhone or iPad, you’ve come across Apple’s mobile operating system, but you might not know what iOS is or what it stands for.

We are here to clarify your queries. Let’s take a look at what iOS means, what the latest version of iOS is, and everything you need to know about the operating system.

What is iOS?

iOS is Apple’s mobile operating system that powers the iPhone and iPod Touch. As of 2019, it was also the operating system used by the iPad (which we’ll discuss shortly).

If you’re not familiar, an operating system (OS) is a type of software that is key to a computer’s working as it manages all aspects of the device. It provides a platform by which the device’s hardware and software can interact, as well as manage the many processes running on your computer.

On your desktop computer, you probably run a Windows, macOS, or Linux operating system. For mobile devices, the most popular are Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android.

What does ios mean?

The full meaning of iOS takes a little more explanation. When the iPhone was introduced in 2007, its operating system was originally called “iPhone OS”. Despite the name, the iPod Touch (which launched later in 2007) also ran the iPhone OS.

In 2010, Apple introduced the iPad, which ran on the same OS. When the fourth version of the mobile OS launched later that year, Apple decided to rebrand the operating system’s name as “iOS”, as it was no longer the only iPhone that used it.

You might also be curious where the “i” branding comes from. Apple has used it in its product line since the iMac was introduced in 1998.

At the time, Steve Jobs said that “the iMac comes from combining the excitement of the Internet with the simplicity of the Macintosh.” Apple revealed this with a slide showing that the “i” prefix also stands for person, instruct, inform, and inspire.

What about iPadOS?

Since 2010, the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad have all been running iOS. However, over time, Apple developed some iPad-specific features that took advantage of the larger screen. These included a dock, drag and drop support for apps on the home screen, and picture-in-picture mode.

Thus, with the release of iOS 13 in 2019, the company renamed the tablet operating system to iPadOS. While it’s largely similar to iOS, iPadOS was spun off to create a dedicated product for its growing list of tablet-specific features. Apple also introduced iPadOS at version 13 to match the version of iOS.

People still use the generic term “iOS devices” to refer to Apple’s mobile lineup, so you may think of both the iPhone and the iPad when you see it. If you are familiar with one OS, you will 95% understand how to use the other OS except for some specific functions.

What is the latest iOS version?

At the time of writing, the latest version of iOS available to the public is iOS 15. Notably, iOS 15.3.1 was released on February 10, 2022. There are also new versions of Apple software available in beta, if you’re interested in trying out the latest updates that are rough around the edges.

If you’re not yet familiar with the latest release, check out What’s New in iOS 15 for some great new features.

When do new iOS versions come out?

Normally, Apple announces the latest version of iOS at WWDC in June each year. Because it is geared towards developers, only beta versions are available for testing at the time.

Later in the year, Apple usually releases the latest iOS versions shortly after its annual iPhone announcement event, which is usually held during the second week of September. Once the iOS update is rolled out, anyone with a compatible device can download it for free.

As a result, you can expect the release of iOS 16 in September 2022.

Throughout the years, Apple also releases minor revisions to iOS. These are called “point releases” because they add a decimal point to the version number (such as iOS 15.3). These usually fix bugs, fix security flaws, and may add small feature modifications.

How to Update iOS on Your iPhone

Your iPhone will prompt you to download the latest iOS update when it is available. You can manually check for updates at any time by going to Settings > General > Software Update. If you already have the latest update, this page will tell you which iOS version you have installed.

See our guide to updating your iPhone for more help. To keep your iPhone secure, it’s a good idea to install the latest updates in a timely manner. Otherwise, your device may be vulnerable to security threats.