iOS8 Update Checklist

Apple is releasing iOS 8 to the general public on Wednesday, September 17. We anticipate new features that will improve accessibility, including new keyboard options, better word prediction, and more! We will have full details for you once the release is available on Wednesday.

But, should you upgrade on Wednesday or wait?

For individuals with disabilities, upgrading quickly may impact utilization of current apps. Before you upgrade to iOS 8, please use our upgrade checklist to help avoid any potential upgrade issues.

Verify that your device is compatible with iOS 8. The following devices will be compatible with iOS 8 at the time of its release:

• iPad Air
• iPad 4th generation
• iPad 3rd generation
• iPad 2
• iPad mini with Retina display
• iPad mini
• iPhone 6 Plus
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 5c
• iPhone 5
• iPhone 4s
• iPod touch 5th generation

Take an inventory of critical iOS features, apps, and hardware that the user requires to successfully use their iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch and verify that they are compatible with iOS 8.

iOS Features
Are there any native iOS accessibility features like Switch Control, Assistive Touch, VoiceOver, etc. that are used on a daily basis? Apple sometimes makes improvements to accessibility features between releases of iOS, and it may be worth waiting to upgrade until you get a chance to test-drive these accessibility features to ensure they still meet the needs of the user.

Apps
What apps are used on a daily basis (e.g. AAC/communication, home automation, educational apps used in class, etc.)? App developers are given access to the new version of iOS prior to it being released so they can test their apps on it. However, sometimes developers are unable to fix bugs before the release of a new version of iOS, so it is recommended that you check with the app developer to ensure that their app is compatible with iOS 8 and is bug-free.

Hardware
Are there any switch interfaces or other hardware that are used on a daily basis? Check with the hardware manufacturer to ensure it is compatible with iOS 8. AbleNet has already tested the Blue2 Bluetooth switch with iOS 8 and it is compatible.

Before upgrading, back up your device via iCloud or by connecting it to a computer and backing up to iTunes.

To upgrade to iOS 8, go into your Settings app, enter the General section, and find Software Update. iOS will check your device to see if an update is available. If one is available, you will be prompted to download and install.