Along with all of its new hardware, Apple today confirmed the release dates of some major software updates.
iOS 13 will launch to the public on September 19. The update has been in beta testing for several months now, and it brings with it major new features like a system-wide dark mode, a swipe keyboard, updated versions of CarPlay and Apple Maps, faster Face ID and app launching, and an all-new Photos interface with better editing tools.
Also coming with iOS 13 is better sharing, Sign In with Apple for better security on apps and websites, new Memoji customizations and Memoji stickers, and a better volume UI that won't block whatever you're watching when you change the volume.
An update to iPadOS is coming along with iOS 13, bringing with it all of the iOS 13 improvements to iPad as well as a better home screen that'll fit more icons, support for USB drives and SD cards in the Files app, and even mouse support.
iOS 13 is compatible with the iPhone SE, iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, iPhone XR, iPhone XS and XS Max, and iPod touch (7th gen). Meanwhile, iPadOS is compatible with the iPad Air 2, iPad Air (3rd gen), iPad mini 4, iPad mini (5th gen), iPad 5th through 7th gen, and the 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, 11-inch, and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models.
watchOS 6 is launching on September 19, too, though only Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 4 models will get it on that date. Apple Watch Series 2 and Series 1 owners will have to wait to update until later this fall. The update to watchOS 6 includes improvements like an indepedent App Store, new watch faces, and new apps like Voice Memos and Calculator.
Finally, Apple confirmed today that iOS 13.1 will launch on September 30, less than two weeks after iOS 13 arrives. The update to iOS 13.1 will bring new features like Share ETA for Apple Maps, Shortcut Automations, better mouse support, and more.
