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Apple's New Operating System Available For Download

By Ian Bush

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Many iPhone and iPad users now can download an operating system upgrade from Apple that makes big changes to some key features.

iOS 6 ships with the iPhone 5 -- out tomorrow -- but it's already up for grabs for most other devices.

"One of the big app changes built-in is Maps."

No longer powered by Google, says CNET senior editor Scott Stein:

"Instead of Google Street View, there's actually a 3D flyover mode -- sort of an overhead, almost video game-like dolls-house type look at neighborhoods, versus really getting down there and looking at photos taken on street level."

With map search driven by Yelp -- and no public transit directions.

"So you may not be able to find things searching for them by categories as easily as you may have before. You may have to default to other apps or other ways of researching."

iOS 6 adds built-in turn-by-turn navigation, Facebook integration, and the virtual wallet, called Passbook.

"Collects virtual tickets, barcodes, coupons, and gift cards, and puts into a location-aware app that pops up these coupons as needed or these QR codes as needed."

Though not all the new features are available for all the older equipment.

For more: http://reviews.cnet.com/ios-6/

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