Rumour: updates to be available over the mobile network on iOS 5

Rather than having to use iTunes to update iOS, Apple may bypass this in the same way as other mobile platforms, making it possible to update their devices through the carriers network – at least in the US.

To update the iOS on an Apple mobile device, you currently have to use the iTunes software installed on an Internet connected computer. A lot of other mobile OS’ though allow "Over the Air" (or OTA) updates via carriers mobile networks.

Rumours are now suggesting that this possibility may also be provided in the future iOS 5 (but not necessarily at its launch) and that Apple is currently preparing the way for Verizon Wireless and perhaps even AT&T to provide the options in addition to other carriers outside of the USA.


Making iOS updates easier
The manufacturer is already capable of implementing this, but has preferred to wait for the right moment once all of the final details have been sorted out with carriers. The site 9to5mac has commented that they will have to revisit the update mode of the iOS.

At this time, the whole ROM is downloaded via iTunes from Apple’s servers, with each file being a few hundred megabytes. Apple will therefore have to lighten their system and offer smaller updates which only change a few settings.

A failed update will also require that a backup system remains available to the user, with it being possible that a cloud option could be offered in parallel. All of this is speculative, but having a light and easy way of updating iOS, especially since they need to make minor updates in a short period of time as is the case with the new iOS 4.3.3 update, which appeared just a few weeks after iOS 4.3.2.