Latest iOS 9 update makes it easier to ditch dodgy Wi-Fi

By David Nield August 9, 2015

iOS 9 suggestions — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The beta version of iOS 9 is currently available for anyone who wants to try it out, and Apple continues to add new features ahead of its official launch in the fall (presumably in September with the new iPhones). The most recent addition to the iOS 9 feature set is called Wi-Fi Assist, and it’s going to make life much easier for iPhone owners who spend a lot of their time using rather flaky Wi-Fi connections.

Here’s the scenario: You’re happily using a Wi-Fi connection which suddenly drops out or goes out of range (not an uncommon event if you’re away from home) and your iPhone doesn’t know what to do about it — you have to disable Wi-Fi or find a new network manually. With Wi-Fi Assist switched on, the iPhone falls back on a cellular connection automatically, so you don’t have to stop whatever it is you’re doing.

If you’re already running iOS 9 and you’ve upgraded to the most recent beta 5 version of the software, head to the Settings app and open the Cellular menu to find the Wi-Fi Assist toggle — obviously you will incur data download charges if you switch it on, but you do get a warning on screen before your iPhone makes the switch. If you don’t have much data allowance left you might find it easier to just switch to another Wi-Fi network.

For more on the new software heading to iOS devices, read our comprehensive hands-on with iOS 9. Among the new features coming down the pipe are a Split View mode for multitasking on an iPad, a new app called News for reading updates from your favorite publications, more proactive features inside Siri and a big upgrade for the Notes app. Another native app getting extra functionality is Apple Maps — iOS 9 brings public transit directions to the app for the first time.

Topics

Contributor

Dave is a freelance journalist from Manchester in the north-west of England. He's been writing about technology since the…

Mobile

Here’s how iOS 18 is going to overhaul your iPhone’s email app

An iPhone showing the home screen in someone's hand.

We're just days away from Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2024), which means we're about to get our first look at iOS 18. The new iPhone operating system is expected to get RCS texting in the iMessage app, more customization options for the home screen, and maybe a significant design change overall. Now comes word that changes will be made to the native Mail app.

According to AppleInsider, the Mail app is about to undergo a significant transformation. It's getting a powerful new search tool, Smart Replies, automatic sorting for different email types, and more. But the real excitement lies in the app's expected integration of AI functionality, a feature becoming a hallmark of iOS 18.

Mobile

Apple just admitted defeat to Android phones

A Google Pixel 8 Pro in Porcelain (left) with an iPhone 15 Pro in Blue Titanium held in hand.

For years, Apple’s smartphones have held a decisive upper hand over Android devices in one crucial aspect: the longevity of the software support cycle. In a nutshell, as long as your phone keeps getting updates, it will run just about fine.

Brand assurances play a crucial role in buyer behavior, as long-term update support means your phone will not only get new tricks but also security flaws patched. Notably, Apple is not into the habit of quoting how many years it will offer software support for each device, but it has held the crown for a while.

Mobile

AT&T just made it a lot easier to upgrade your phone

Do you want to upgrade your phone more than once a year? What about three times a year? Are you on AT&T? If you answered yes to those questions, then AT&T’s new “Next Up Anytime” early upgrade program is made for you. With this add-on, you’ll be able to upgrade your phone three times a year for just $10 extra every month. It will be available starting July 16.

Currently, AT&T has its “Next Up” add-on, which has been available for the past several years. This program costs $6 extra per month and lets you upgrade by trading in your existing phone after at least half of it is paid off. But the new Next Up Anytime option gives you some more flexibility.