What is iOS operating system?
The iOS operating system, is proprietary mobile software developed by Apple that runs on devices such as the iPhone and iPad. iOS stands for "iPhone Operating System" and is designed for use with Apple's multitouch devices. The system supports direct interaction through user gestures such as pinching, tapping and swiping. The iOS Developer's Toolkit enables developers to create applications for the platform.
What are the features of Apple iOS?
iOS offers a wide range of features that provide users with convenience, security and advanced capabilities for interacting with Apple devices. The following are the key features of iOS:
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cellular connectivity, along with VPN support,
An integrated search engine
that allows users to search files, media, apps and emails simultaneously,
Gesture recognition,
for example, shaking the device undoes the last action,
Direct access to the Apple App Store and iTunes catalog
with music, podcasts, TV shows and movies for rent or purchase,
Compatibility with Apple’s iCloud service,
Siri – Apple’s virtual assistant that can set reminders, offer suggestions or interact with third-party apps,
Communication between Apple devices via AirDrop,
Support for Apple Watch,
which runs on watchOS 9, but requires an iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16 or later,
Apple Pay,
which stores users’ credit card information and allows users to pay for goods and services directly from their iOS device,
CarPlay,
which lets you interact with your iOS device while driving, supports Siri voice control, and allows you to access apps through the vehicle’s touchscreen
HomePod feature
allows Siri to recognize family members by voice, offering a personalized experience,
HomeKit,
which allows iOS to be used to control home automation, including routers, lights, security cameras and more.
iOS also provides a mobile Safari browser, push email support, and integrated front and rear cameras with video features. With direct access to the Apple App Store and iTunes catalog, users can rent or purchase a wide range of media. In addition, the system supports communication between Apple devices via AirDrop and enables the use of Apple Pay for convenient payments directly from the device. Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, not only sets reminders and offers suggestions, but can also interact with third-party apps. HomePod lets you recognize family members by voice, offering a personalized experience, and HomeKit lets you control your home automation with iOS devices.
The History of iOS
Each successive version of iOS introduced new features and improvements that contributed to its evolution:
iPhone OS 1.0 (2007): Introduced a revolutionary user interface based on multitouch technology, along with apps like Mail, Safari, iPod, and Messages.
iPhone OS 2.0 (2008): Brought the App Store, allowing developers to create and distribute apps for the iPhone. It also added support for Microsoft Exchange.
iPhone OS 3.0 (2009): Added features such as copy-paste, MMS, Spotlight search, tethering, and support for Bluetooth accessories.
iOS 4 (2010): The system was renamed to iOS. Multitasking, app folders, and the iAd advertising platform were introduced. Support for FaceTime was also added.
iOS 5 (2011): Introduced Siri, the virtual voice assistant, and iCloud, enabling data synchronization between Apple devices. The Notification Center and iMessage were also added.
iOS 6 (2012): Brought Apple Maps, Passbook (later Wallet), and integration with Facebook. Google Maps and YouTube were removed as pre-installed apps.
iOS 7 (2013): Completely redesigned user interface with a flat design. Introduced Control Center, AirDrop, and multitasking improvements.
iOS 8 (2014): Introduced HealthKit, HomeKit, Apple Pay, and Continuity, allowing seamless transitions between Apple devices. Third-party keyboard support was also added.
iOS 9 (2015): Focused on performance optimization and stability. Introduced Split View and Slide Over for iPads, as well as a new News app.
iOS 10 (2016): Brought changes to the Messages app, introduced the Home app, and allowed the removal of pre-installed Apple apps. Siri was improved with third-party app support.
iOS 11 (2017): A new Dock for iPads, the Files app, ARKit for augmented reality, and new multitasking features on iPad were introduced. Support for 32-bit apps was removed.
iOS 12 (2018): Focused on improving performance and stability, especially on older devices. Introduced Screen Time, Memoji, and enhancements to ARKit 2.
iOS 13 (2019): Brought Dark Mode, a new Photos app, Sign in with Apple, and privacy enhancements. The system for iPads was separated, creating iPadOS.
iOS 14 (2020): Introduced widgets on the home screen, App Library, Picture in Picture, and privacy enhancements such as app tracking transparency.
iOS 15 (2021): Improvements to FaceTime (SharePlay), new focus features, enhancements in Mail and Safari apps, and email tracking prevention features.
iOS 16 (2022): Lock screen customization, the ability to edit and unsend messages in iMessage, improvements in the Photos and Mail apps, and expanded privacy and security features.
iOS 17 (2023): Advanced privacy features, better app permission management, new photo and video editing tools, and enhancements to AirDrop functionality.
How is the iOS Architecture organized?
The iOS architecture is organized into layers, each serving different functions, from basic system services to advanced graphical interfaces. Here’s an overview of these layers:
1. Core OS Layer
The Core OS layer contains low-level functions upon which most other technologies are based. It includes:
Core Bluetooth Framework: Bluetooth support.
Accelerate Framework: Accelerated mathematical computations.
External Accessory Framework: Communication with external accessories.
Security Services Framework: Security services.
Local Authentication Framework: Local authentication.
64-bit Support: Support for 64-bit applications.
2. Core Services Layer
The Core Services layer provides fundamental services necessary for application operation:
Address Book Framework: Access to the user’s contacts.
CloudKit Framework: Data transfer between the app and iCloud.
Core Data Framework: Management of the app’s data model.
Core Location Framework: Location and heading information.
Core Motion Framework: Access to motion data.
Foundation Framework: Extension of Core Foundation with additional features.
HealthKit Framework: Handling of the user’s health data.
HomeKit Framework: Control of home devices.
Social Framework: Access to the user’s social media accounts.
StoreKit Framework: In-app purchase support.
3. Media Layer
The Media layer is responsible for graphics, audio and video technologies:
Graphics Framework: Graphics support, including UIKit Graphics, Core Graphics, Core Animation, Core Images, OpenGL ES, Metal.
Audio Framework: Audio support, including Media Player Framework, AV Foundation, OpenAL.
Video Framework: video support, including AV Kit, AV Foundation, Core Media.
4. Cocoa Touch Layer
Cocoa Touch layer provides user interfaces and other advanced features:
EventKit Framework: Support for calendar events.
GameKit Framework: integration with Game Center.
iAd Framework: Support for banner ads.
MapKit Framework: Support for maps in applications.
PushKit Framework: Support for VoIP application registration.
Twitter Framework: Support for Twitter.
UIKit Framework: A key infrastructure for graphical application development and event handling, including support for multitasking, application management, user interface, support for touch and motion events, and functions such as cut, copy and paste.
Each of these layers consists of a set of frameworks that developers can use to create iOS applications. The lower layers provide basic system services, while the higher layers offer more advanced graphical features and user interfaces.
What are the advantages of the iOS operating system?
iOS is prized for its stability and smoothness, making Apple devices run quickly and smoothly. Users rarely encounter technical problems or system hangs, which is a common problem with other operating systems. In addition, iOS is updated regularly, providing access to the latest features and security patches.
iOS also has the advantage of high security and advanced privacy features. Apple uses advanced encryption technologies and hardware security, such as Secure Enclave, which protects user data from unauthorized access. Features such as Face ID and Touch ID enable secure authentication, and an app permission management system allows users to control access to data and services.
What are the disadvantages of the iOS operating system?
Despite its many advantages, iOS also has its drawbacks. The system is closed, which means users have limited ability to personalize and customize the interface. Apple also controls which apps can be installed on a device, which limits access to some apps available on other platforms.
iOS devices are also often more expensive than those running Android. The high price of Apple hardware makes it unaffordable for everyone, which can discourage potential users. In addition, some apps and features that are available on Android may not be available or limited on iOS, which can affect the user experience.
iOS vs Android Operating System
iOS and Android are the two dominant operating systems for mobile devices. The choice between them depends on individual user preferences and needs. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider them before making a decision.
Stability and Security
iOS is known for its greater stability and security. The system is tightly controlled by Apple, which means that apps must undergo rigorous testing before being listed in the App Store. This results in iOS users encountering fewer technical issues and enjoying better data protection.
Flexibility and Customization
Android offers greater flexibility and customization options. It is an open system, allowing users to modify the interface, install apps from various sources, and tailor the device to their needs. Android is available on a wide range of devices, from budget models to flagship ones.
App Availability
- iOS: The Apple App Store offers around 2 million apps, many of which are paid. Apps are carefully vetted, ensuring high quality and security.
- Android: The Google Play Store has nearly 3 million apps. Most of them are free but may include ads or in-app purchases. Android also allows users to install apps from outside the official store, giving them more freedom.
Performance and Smooth Operation
- iOS: iPhones are known for their smooth operation due to system optimization and high-quality components. Even devices with less RAM perform efficiently.
- Android: Android’s performance depends on the hardware specifications. Flagship models run smoothly, but cheaper devices may struggle with performance, especially after installing numerous apps.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
