Apple’s iOS 8 releases haven’t exactly gone according to plan so far, especially when iOS 8.0.1 bricked tens of thousands of brand new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus handsets. We already know that Apple is hard at work on at least three major new mobile software releases though, and a new report claims to reveal the exact launch date for the first one, iOS 8.1.
FROM EARLIER: iOS 8.1 beta reveals new details about upcoming Apple devices
The first (and perhaps only) beta version of iOS 8.1 was released to developers this past Monday, which is a good indication of two things. First, it’s a certain sign that a public iOS 8.1 release isn’t far away. Second, it means Apple is likely very interested in having developers test the software to help identify bugs; the last thing the company wants is a repeat of iOS 8.0.1.
With those two things in mind, and the knowledge that Apple had previously confirmed an October launch target for its new Apple Pay service, a new report from Bank Innovation citing multiple unnamed sources claims that Apple’s new iOS 8.1 software will be released on October 20th, and Apple Pay will make its public debut alongside it.
The new software will of course be made available for all compatible iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices, though only the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus will be able to take full advantage of Apple Pay to make in-store contactless payments.
The timing would position the two launches on the same day Apple will report earnings for its fiscal fourth quarter, and it may be closely followed by the release of the company’s next-generation iPad Air and iPad mini tablets, which are also expected to debut in late October.
