What is the Difference Between Apple iOS 5.1 and 6?

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The main differences between Apple iOS 5.1 and 6 are as follows:

  1. Siri: iOS 6 brings Siri to the new iPad, enabling voice-activated assistance on the device.
  2. Integration: iOS 6 has better and more comprehensive integration with both Facebook and Twitter.
  3. Facetime: With iOS 6, users can use Facetime over 3G, whereas this feature was limited to Wi-Fi in iOS 5.1.
  4. Safari: The Safari web browser in iOS 6 is improved, offering a better browsing experience.
  5. VIP Mailbox: iOS 6 introduces a new dedicated VIP mailbox feature, allowing users to prioritize important emails.
  6. Apple Maps: iOS 6 introduces a new version of the Apple Maps application with enhanced features.
  7. Passbook: iOS 6 introduces the concept of Passbook, which can be used to store information about e-tickets, boarding passes, and more.
  8. Eyes Free: iOS 6 enables Siri to be used in cars as part of the Eyes Free concept, promoting safe driving while using voice assistance.

Regarding performance, tests have shown subtle differences between iOS 5.1 and 6. Some devices, such as the third-generation iPad, experienced a slight decrease in performance under iOS 6 compared to iOS 5.1.1. However, the iPhone 4S and third-generation iPad showed significant gains in performance for iOS 6 in certain tests.

Comparative Table: Apple iOS 5.1 vs 6

Here is a table comparing the differences between Apple iOS 5.1 and 6:

Feature iOS 5.1 iOS 6
Passbook Not available Available
FaceTime over 3G Not available Available
Safari web browser Older version Updated version
VIP mailbox Not available Available
Siri for cars (Eyes Free concept) Not available Available
Siri for iPad Not available Available
Siri support for Japanese Available -
Deleting photos from Photo Stream Not available Available
Camera shortcut visibility on lock screen Issue existed Issue resolved

Please note that iOS 5.1.1 is the latest version of iOS that can be installed on a first-generation iPad, and it cannot be upgraded to iOS 6 or later versions.