Apple
iOS 9 Review: Should You Upgrade?
iOS 9 Notes App
Apple completely changes the Notes app for iOS 9 with new features that change how I use this free, built-in app. While it is not as good at Evernote for tracking everything I need to keep track of, it is a very good upgrade that allows me to do more with the Notes app.
My favorite new feature is the ability to quickly add photos and links to notes, which makes it easier to keep track of related items that I am researching. The notes sync between all of my devices so I can create a detailed note on the iPad while using split-screen and then see that note on my iPhone in a store.
The iOS 9 Notes app offers more options for power users.
The support for checklists is helpful, but this still feels like a feature better suited for Reminders.
Sketching out things in Notes is now possible and there is a ruler that you can use for more accurate drawings if needed.
Apple News App
Apple now includes a News app with iOS 9. This allows users to subscribe to news organizations and topics and read them in a dedicated app that offers a nicer look than many webpages.
You can find many publishers inside Apple News, including Gotta Be Mobile. The app is useful and delivers news based on your preferences. There is an option for email notifications, but I only use the app to check in for interesting news.
One downside is that there is no way to uninstall this new app. While this is not a big deal personally, there are many users who don’t like Apple adding new apps they cannot remove.
Apple Maps Upgrades
Apple Maps is better in iOS 9 with support for Transit directions in several large cities and better overall support for finding local businesses and knowing when they are open.
Get transit directions in Apple Maps for iOS 9.
In large cities you can now include Transit directions that supports subways, buses, trains and ferries — and this will even link up walking and multiple transit options to get you from one location to the next. I am not able to test this out yet as my city is too small for support and the closest city is still a long haul.
After many years Apple finally lists my street in iOS 9, which is a very handy upgrade. So far Apple Maps on iOS 9 has not directed me to drive off a long closed bridge, which is also promising — but Google Maps is still my primary way to get directions.
Apple Wallet
You can access Apple Wallet with a double click of the home button when the iPhone is locked.
Passbook is gone in iOS 9, but the features still exist in Apple Wallet. The new Apple Wallet app supports loyalty cards and there is new support for store credit cards and Discover Apple Pay support.
By far my favorite new Apple Wallet feature is the ability to double-click the home button to launch Apple Pay. This makes it possible to get the right card ready before I need to pay.
