IOS 15 – Features and Supported Devices

In this guide we want to provide information on Apple IOS 15, such as all the latest features, what models are supported and when this version was released. 

When was IOS 15 Released?

Apple announced their latest operating system for iPhone’s at their June event in 2021. IOS 15 was then released in September 2021 and features a host of upgrades and new features.

Since its release there have been several feature updates and bug fixes and are currently at IOS 15.5 which was released in May 2022.

Like its predecessors, IOS 15 is completely free to download.

Is my Refurbished iPhone compatible with IOS 15?

Any refurbished iPhone from the iPhone 6S and above will be supported by Apple’s latest operating system, although to really get the full benefits such as Portrait Mode on FaceTime and Live Text, iPhones will need to be powered by an A12 chip or newer and can be found in the refurbished iPhone XS and above.

How to find out what model iPhone I have

As there are several different Apple iPhone models available, it can be very confusing to know exactly which model you have and if the latest software will be supported.

To check your refurbished iPhone to see what model you have. Within the settings app on your iPhone, select the About option which will then bring up all the details about your iPad such as name, software version, model number, model, and the serial number. Looking next to the model will display what iPhone you have.

How to install the IOS 15

Once you have checked your device is compatible with IOS 15 it is always a good idea to back up all your data before updating. Although no data should be removed during the update, for peace of mind we always recommend this.

Below is also a quick guide on how to back up your data:

1) Go to Settings   > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
2) Turn on iCloud Backup. (iCloud automatically backs up your iPhone daily when iPhone is connected to power, locked, and connected to Wi-Fi.)
3) To perform a manual backup, tap Back Up Now.

The next stage is then to update the software. 1) Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi.
2) Go to Settings > General > Software Update
3) Select IOS 15
4) Tap Install Now.

IOS 15 new features

Facetime

• Portrait mode is now able to be used which blurs out the background.
• A grid view to make is easier to connect with your contacts and functions similar to conference calls such as zoom.
• Spatial Audio makes sounds come from where your friends or family are located on the GridView making it feel more natural.
• FaceTime Links allow you to send invites to friends and family to join and connect on FaceTime.
• SharePlay is a new feature that will allow a conversation to continue whilst you watch a video or listen to music, and will also allow it to be shared during the call.

Messages

• Shared with You is a new feature that links all data and content that is shared with you in messages and store them in a handy new App.
• More Memojis have been added.
• Multiple photo’s sent in a message are shown as a stack allowing easier viewing and quicker to swipe through. 

Maps

• A refreshed colour scheme
• Improved road and building details with updated and easy to understand instructions.

Privacy

• Increased visibility into how apps access your data.

Visual Look Up

• Learn more about objects in your photo’s by tapping them to bring up more information.

Live Text

• Live text intelligently picks up on information within an image to allow you to call, email or copy text by simply highlighting the text on the image.

Notifications

• Redesigned notifications to make them easier to identify and read.
• A new notification summary to show most relevant notifications at the top.

Focus

• This feature allows you to choose if and what notifications you want to come through when you want to focus on a certain task.

FaceID

• This update will allow you to access your handset whilst wearing a face mask.

Apple Wallet

• CarKey is now supported which allows you to unlock your car using your iPhone
• Your home, garage and hotel room details can now be stored in order to unlock them.

For a full breakdown of all features of IOS 15 please visit the Apple website on the following link: https://www.apple.com/uk/ios/ios-15/

If you are looking to purchase a refurbished iPhone and would like to ensure a particular IOS 15 feature will work on it, always check to ensure the model you are looking for is capable and able to perform exactly as you need and want. The best way to do this would be to either contact us here at WeBuyTek or check the Apple website for all the technical specification on each handset.