14 DAY TRIAL // Apple claims everyone who owns a supported iOS device can now tether the unit to their computer, launch iTunes (minimum version 10.1) and check for the iOS 4.2 (actual version number 4.2.1) software update. Alternately, users can manually download the firmware bundle and store it locally for a scheduled, manual installation. The IPSW download is free, while most iOS devices are supported.
Avid Softpedia readers should already be aware that iOS software update files are easily obtainable through our web site. Just hit the links below and choose the iOS 4.2 IPSW supported by your device.
Download iOS IPSW for iPhone, iPod touch (Free)
Download iOS IPSW for iPad (Free)
With the IPSW downloaded to your hard drive, simply connect your device to iTunes, back it up, and point the application to the restoration file by hitting "restore" with the Alt (Option) key held down.
Apple, of course, encourages users to update automatically, by allowing iTunes to find an available software update. This method is, in fact, easier. Just hit “check for update” and follow the steps enumerated by iTunes.
Softpedia has an extensive article on how the iOS 4.2 software update should be performed, complete with a few handy tips for jailbreakers.
Downloading and Installing the iOS 4.2 Software Update for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad
Speaking of which, it appears that iOS device users enjoying the benefits of a hacked unit will be able to jailbreak instantly, according to various updates dished out by the iPhone Dev Team in the past couple of weeks.
iOS 4.2 focuses on bridging the gap between the iPad and the iPhone, by delivering a number of key additions to the former. These include multitasking, application folders, unified Mail inbox, Game Center, AirPrint and AirPlay.
“iOS 4.2 makes the iPad a completely new product, just in time for the holiday season,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “Once again, the iPad with iOS 4.2 will define the target that other tablets will aspire to, but very few, if any, will ever be able to hit.”
Finally, the all-IPSW download source felixbruns.de is yet to update its listings with the new software update.
Update: headline and introduction updated with iOS 4.2.1 references.