Why, Apple? Why?

The iOS 7.1 update has proven to be quite disastrous. And it just doesn’t make sense to me because Apple doesn’t have a record of releasing software that simply doesn’t work. Sure,  previous versions may have had a few minor bugs here and there. But iOS 7.1? Just too many!

Let’s run through the list of issues (in no particular order) shall we?

1. Personal Hotspot: Since making the switch from iOS 7.0.6 to iOS 7.1, many users haven’t been able to save their APN settings for personal hotspots. They kept receiving error messages each time they tried to establish a tethered connection. Now that’s frustrating, especially for people on the go such as students and traveling execs.
2. Battery Life:  Not only have many users complained of noticeable reductions in battery life, their handsets are also taking way longer to recharge. Not okay. I believe this goes somewhere in the top 3 in the list of #FirstWorldProblems.
3. WiFi Connection: iPhone 4S users have been complaining about WiFi connection issues. Many people with iPhones older than the 4S have reported not being able to connect to WiFi at all. In this day and age, this is not acceptable. Many of these users try to save on data plans, and heavily rely on WiFi to cover their needs.
4. Keyboard: A significant number of users on forums complained about a 5 second lag when using the keyboard. This is ridiculous! Most iPhone users heavily use their keyboards to text, send email, surf (need I go on?).  Smartphone owners are on the go. Results must be quick. We can’t afford keyboard lags in our busy connected lives.
5. Bluetooth: Turns out that the iOS 7.1 update has created sync, connectivity, and hands-free issues for many users using their mobile devices in their car. In some cases, audio wasn’t being routed through Bluetooth when making a hands-free call.
6. Touch ID: There has been some chatter about the new fingerprint scanner not working properly since the update. In a few cases, it just stopped working altogether.  Certainly not okay for people who went out of their way to save up and purchase the 5S for this feature.
7. Freeze/Reboots: One of the biggest complaints about the iOS 7.1 update is the fact that the experience is no longer seamless. Between the frequent freezing while using iMessage, or reboots while using apps, it’s just – oh come on!

Apple hasn’t confirmed the problems, so there isn’t any way to know (just yet) exactly how many people got affected by iOS 7.1. Also, most of the people who were vocal about their issues were owners of the iPhone 5S.

Now I don’t want to say anything along the lines of, “If Steve Jobs were here…” but really, Apple needs to step it up.

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