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APPLE HAS MADE its new iOS 7 software available today.

It is a drastic change in interface from iOS6, but change is not necessarily a bad thing.

If you’re thinking about making the switch, here’s what you need to do:

Make Sure You Have A Compatible Device

iOS 7 will only work on iPhones that are iPhone 4 or later, Retina display iPads, iPad 2, and the fifth-generation iPod touch.

Carve Out Some Time

Historically, Apple makes its software available around 6pm (Irish time) on the release day. When lots of people download it at the same time, it crowds Apple’s servers. If you can wait, try downloading iOS7 in a few days. If you’re impatient, be prepared for a sluggish download.

Update iTunes

If you back up your iPhone or iPad to iTunes, or if you plan to install iOS7 from iTunes, make sure you are running the latest version (11.1).

You can check by opening iTunes and going to Help > Check for Updates. Make sure you restart iTunes after installing the latest version.

Back Up Your Device

Back up your device to iTunes. This is extremely important as it will let you keep your contacts, photos, and apps from the previous iOS.

You can also back it up to iCloud. Go to Settings > iCloud > Storage & Backup. Under Backup, turn on the switch for iCloud Backup.

Update iOS

When iOS 7 becomes available, you can update with a good Wi-Fi connection by going into your settings and grabbing the software update. This is an easy way to do it if you’re on the go.

You can also use iTunes to upgrade your software.

Plug your device into your computer with the USB cord and launch iTunes. On the left side of iTunes, find and select your device. Click “Check for Update” which will appear automatically. When the dialogue box appears, select “Download and Update”.

Wait

Be patient as you wait for the download. If you interrupt the process you could risk disrupting the update.

Read: Apple to launch two new phones later this year

Today: Here’s why TDs and Senators can’t update their iPhones and iPads to iOS7