Apple iPad Air 2 Tablet Review

1. Introduction2. Packaging and Bundle3. Design4. Display5. Software6. Performance7. Camera8. Battery9. Closing Thoughts10. View All Pages

Now for the most opinion-dividing aspect of Apple devices – iOS. The Air 2 launched with the latest installment of the iOS series, iOS 8 – which is now upgradable to iOS 8.3.

While iOS 7 was primarily a visual upgrade – it introduced a modern, ‘flat' look to the iOS system – iOS 8 brings greater functionality to the iPad.

As an example, take Handoff. Handoff allows users to transfer whatever they are doing on one Apple device to another. So if you are writing an email on your iPad, turn your Bluetooth on on another compatible device, and you can continue the email where you left off.

You can also connect your iPad Air 2 to an iPhone to use the phone's mobile functionality. This means you can call or text on your iPad, using your phone's number and network plan. The signal is simply pumped from your iPad, over your wifi connection and to the iPhone. It's simple yet very useful. Of course the caveat is you need compatible Apple devices – but that is just what Apple do.

The Control Centre – iOS' quick settings panel – remains the same, as do the general aesthetics of the OS. This is certainly no bad thing, as the new, clean and flat look introduced by iOS 7 works well.

However, many Android users enjoy changing their phones appearance, by switching launchers or changing icon packs. iOS does not let you do this is. However, for some people, it does not really matter.

In general terms, Android vs iOS boils down to customisability vs simplicity. It's not for us to say which is best, rather point out there are pros and cons with each approach.

Become a Patron!