Apple iOS 8.0 GM released to developers

Apple has released the Golden Master GM release of iOS 8 to supported iOS devices, including the iPhone 4s and newer, iPad 2 and newer along with the fifth generation iPod Touch. iOS 8 GM is likely is the final developer build of the update before it is released to the public on September 17.

The iOS 8 GM release is available to developers registered in Apple's Developer Program and those who have the beta installed will be able to download it right away. You can download iOS 8 GM by signing into Apple's developer portal. However, keep in mind that you will have to perform a fresh installation since betas cannot be simply updated to GM.

The iOS 8 update was first announced at WWDC, and brings several new features and improvements to iOS 7. While the previous version of iOS was a visual update to the platform, this release is all about improving functionality.

For the first time, Apple has opened up numerous areas of its firmware to third-party developers, and while this will notably allow apps to offer deeper integration with the Siri voice assistant, it also means that folks will be able to download and install a system-wide keyboard of their choosing. Apple has also made some tweaks of its own in the keyboard stakes to ensure that users enjoy a better overall experience, but with so many big-name developers having showcased their revolutionary efforts on Android, it’s likely that many will opt for the likes of SwiftKey and Fleksy.

		Apple iOS 8.0 - Here's all you need to know
		Apple's iOS 8 is a huge update for both users and developers alike, with several new features and improvements, including quick reply, predictive keyboard, HealthKit and HomeKit APIs, support for third party keyboards like Swype, widgets, Camera and Touch ID API.

Additionally Apple has released to SDKs for developers - HealthKit and HomeKit, which are influential systems that will soon become a major part of Apple’s product line. We already know about HealthKit’s integration with Health app, for example, and with Apple rumored to be working on its own branded home-automation hardware, iOS 8 merely provides the foundations for several of Apple’s target market sectors moving forward.

The final version of iOS 8 will be available to the public on September 17, and we will update you as soon as it goes live, so be sure to stay tuned.

So if you are a registered developer head over to developer.apple.com/programs/ios/ and sign in with your Apple ID. If you haven't registered for the developer program and wish to try out the latest version of iOS, you can register for an account ($99/year in the United States, or £60/year in the UK) and learn how to download and install the update on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch.