14 DAY TRIAL // An update download test carried out on two iPhones, one preloaded with iOS 6 beta, has revealed that Apple could be pushing for the implementation of “delta” updates in the next major release of iOS.
Before you jump to the watch (who reads these days, anyway?), a delta update is an incremental, superseding release that only delivers the necessary changes, as opposed to a regular update, where the customer downloads the entire (updated) app all over again.
And it seems to be the case with iOS 6, according to the test in question (video embedded below).
Although BlogdoiPhone speculates that this is a sign Apple has finally introduced “delta” updates in iOS 6, there could be any number of reasons why the iOS 6 phone downloads the update faster.
For example, the two devices could be on different wireless networks. Even simpler, the iOS 6 device could be better at talking to the access point used for the test. Our iDevices hardly ever offer a consistent experience, even in our own homes, on our own WiFi.
The iOS 6 beta and software development kit (SDK) are immediately available to iOS Developer Program members at developer.apple.com.
Apple has long revealed that iOS 6 will be released as a free software update for iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, the new iPad, iPad 2 and iPod touch (fourth generation) this fall.
The new operating system boasts hundreds of new features, of which the most significant ones include a brand new Maps app with cartography designed by Apple themselves, turn-by-turn navigation and 3D views; new Siri features; Facebook integration; Shared Photo Streams via iCloud; and Passbook, a new built-in app that puts your passes in a single place, just like a wallet.
Apple asks customers to note that when iOS 6 is released to the general population, not all features will work on all devices. For instance, the iPhone 3GS, although supported, will be getting next to none of the features enumerated above.
