Core Group, official importer of Apple products in SA, and Vodacom have confirmed they will assist users in upgrading to the latest version of the iOS mobile operating system.
iOS 4.2, released this week, is available for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, but the download for the new software weighs in at 600MB.
Additionally, each device requires a separate update file. For example, an iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS do not share an update file, while the iPad and iPod touch also have separate files.
Vodacom and MTN are the only local providers that officially sell the iPhone on their networks. Core Group resells iPhones via Vodacom and MTN, through its iStore retail network.
Nomsa Thusi, executive head of corporate communications at Vodacom, says Vodacare franchises have access to Vodacom's support network, and so will be able to obtain the necessary files to assist users in upgrading their phone software.
MTN was unable to comment on whether it would help iPhone users on its network, through its retail stores.
Stephen Ambrose, MD of WWW Strategy, points out that for users who are on capped Internet connections, this upgrade could turn out to use a hefty chunk of bandwidth.
“In America and Europe, people think nothing of downloading a 600MB file,” he says. “In SA, we have about 1.1 million people whose primary broadband Internet connection is a wireless solution. There are around 700 000 ADSL subscribers, but only 20% of those are home users.”
Ambrose adds: “From research conducted, it appears a signficant portion of iPhone users in SA have not used any of the device's smart or data capabilities.”
In light of this data-starved portion of the market, he says it is important for the service providers and retail chain to help with the software upgrade procedure.
Ambose comments: “It would be good customer service from Vodacom and MTN [to offer upgrade assistance], especially in the light of the high cost of mobile data.”
The new software adds new features to the iPhone and iPad, including print support (AirPrint), wireless music and video streaming for the Apple TV (AirPlay), and other enhancements or additions that make the devices more functional.
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