Sep 9, 2010 15:03 GMT  ·  By

As Apple fans should already know, iOS 4.1 is now available for grabs from Apple’s servers. The software delivers new features and enhancements to both iPhone and iPod touch owners, as well as fixes for several issues, and security patches.

Those who haven’t yet gotten a chance to download the iOS 4.1 software update have a couple of methods at their disposal, one of which is connecting the device to a computer running iTunes.

Apple recommends this method because the update process is more straightforward, and it saves all your stuff as you upgrade to the new software version.

If your iOS device is supported by the new software, iTunes will pop a message saying something like a new software update is available for your iPhone / iPod.

Users must be careful to back up their devices before ordering iTunes to download and automatically install the new software version, just in case anything wrong happens.

A less traditional method involves downloading the actual IPSW update / restore file manually.

Softpedia users in particular should be well accustomed with this method.

All you need to do is locate your appropriate iOS 4.1 IPSW file. The files are listed below along with their appropriate iDevice (The download will begin automatically).

iPhone 4 - iPhone3,1_4.1_8B117_Restore.ipsw

iPhone 3GS - iPhone2,1_4.1_8B117_Restore.ipsw

iPhone 3G - iPhone1,2_4.1_8B117_Restore.ipsw

iPod touch (3rd gen) - iPod3,1_4.1_8B117_Restore.ipsw

iPod touch (2nd gen) - iPod2,1_4.1_8B117_Restore.ipsw

Rest assured the links are mirrors to Apple’s own servers, meaning the files are exactly the same ones Apple would hand to you by connecting the device to iTunes.

After downloading the IPSW file, users must still connect their device to iTunes to get it installed.

With their device selected in the left pane, users can choose to restore to the new IPSW by hitting the “Restore” button with the Alt (Option) key held down.

Note that this does not save any of your previous settings, applications, contacts, SMS history and so on. This is a full return to factory settings, only with the latest iOS version applied.

Needless to point out, jailbreakers are advised to stay away from the update until the iPhone Dev Team rolls out a tool that can effectively hack iOS 4.1.

Softpedia does not encourage such practices, but we believe it’s fair that everyone stays informed.