Apple’s iOS 8.1 Is Now Available; Apple Pay, Texting from Your Computer Included

Daniel Bean
·Assistant Editor
Updated
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Happy dot-one day!

As promised, Apple made available its iOS 8.1 update today. The downloadable update brings bug fixes to all iPhones and iPads, and also updates compatible i-gadgets with support for Apple Pay, the company’s online and mobile retail payment system, and Continuity, an Apple feature that allows you to place phone calls and send SMS messages on Apple computers.

Those who disliked Apple’s recent discarding of the Camera Roll photo app will be happy to see that it’s returning in 8.1 as well.

iOS software update screen
iOS software update screen

(Twitter/@ampressman)

To get the update now, just navigate to your iOS device’s Settings app, tap General, and then Software Update. From there, follow the onscreen instructions to download and install all these new (and old) goodies in one fell swoop.

Unlike Apple’s last iOS update rollout, there have so far been no widespread reports of nasty side effects to installing 8.1. So grab the upgrade now, worry-free, and be among the first to buy a coffee by waving your iPhone at a barista. Everyone will be doing it soon.

Have questions, comments, or just want to tell me something funny? Email me at danbean@yahoo-inc.com.