iOS 8 is finally here!

Apple users who have already downloaded the much-awaited iOS 8 software last Sept. 17 still have to become familiarized with their recently upgraded devices. The new iOS features a lot of significant changes, which is why it would help to know them in order to maximize the benefits of the new mobile operating system.

One of the most obvious changes in iOS 8 is the improved Widgets. In the past, Apple devices have limited interface for third-party developers to make sure that their own key features will have enough battery life. But for this iOS update, the widgets will have a bigger space in the new Today screen located at the Notification Center.

Also, iOS 8 made searching for photos in Apple devices easier by adding a search tool in the Albums and Photos folder. The users just have to tap on the new search icon and several photos will be suggested automatically, even before the user has typed anything.

iOS 8 also features significant changes to the Photo app's image editing capabilities. Users who want to adjust their images manually now have a dozen new editing options that are classified in three different categories, namely Light, Color, and B&W.

Then there is the Family Sharing feature, which is beneficial for parents whose kids also own an Apple device. This feature can allow parents to enroll their children under 13 years old to their own Apple ID accounts so they will be billed for their own usage, yet the final say for any purchase made will still rely on the adult's permission. The family group can include up to five individuals in their Family Sharing account, and each member can share their locations automatically with one another. This means that the parent can track each member of the family with the help of Find My Friends app.

Also, iOS 8 will now allow third-party keyboard apps installed in the Apple devices. This feature has been available to Android users for a long time already, and it took a while before the Cupertino tech firm finally decided to allow it in their devices. Some of the available apps for Apple devices include SwiftKey, Swype, Fleksy, as well as TouchPal.

With all these features, it is safe to say that the new iOS 8 is worth the wait.