Apple will release iOS 8 today, the operating system it claims will offer "incredible" new features and applications for iPhone and iPad users.
The software is being made available two days before the official release of the iPhone 6, which was showcased by Apple along with its iWatch device last week.
The download will include a new WhatsApp-style instant message system, a real-time speech-to-text tool and a kit for sharing biological data with healthcare providers.
Apple has described the software as the "biggest release since the launch of the App Store" which will give users "the tools they need to create amazing new apps".
Other features include Handoff which will let users start work on a project on one device, then continue working on it on another.
Despite the new features the system has not been visually revamped and will look more or less the same as iOS 7 with a few tweaks.
:: Quicktype
With iOS 8, Apple's predictive text feature will not only suggest words but complete phrases, too. It will also allow users to install customised keyboards such as Swype.
Instead of tapping to type, Swype users 'swipe' letters on the keyboard before an algorithm calculates the words.
The system also comes with improved speech-to-text software which transcribes words faster, with better accuracy and in real time.
:: Messaging
Apple lost ground to competitors such as WhatsApp which offered users a better interface with more features.
With iOS 8 users will be able to exchange audio and video clips and mute group conversations as required.
:: Health Kit
The company is making a big effort to redefine mobile health and fitness tracking.
The iWatch will come with sensors to monitor the wearer's heart rate and it is rumoured the iOS 8 Health Kit will monitor health and fitness data such as miles run and calories burned.
The software is a challenge to similar apps from Runkeeper and Nike and is Apple's attempt to become a player in the global health industry.
The update will also be able to keep track of data such as blood pressure and glucose levels and share it with healthcare providers.
:: To install iOS8 when it becomes available go to the Settings app on your device, tap on General, then Software Update and confirm when it asks whether you want to install.
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