How to Get Apple iOS 6

Apple's iOS 6, the next major update to the iPhone maker's mobile operating system, is due out today. Any moment now. Right? [Right! Update: It was released just after 1:00 P.M. Eastern time September 19.]

Okay, so how do you get it?

First you need to make sure you have a compatible device in hand. iOS 6 will support the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, and the new but as-yet unavailable (which will hit stores and mailboxes Sept. 21), as well as the iPad 2, the new, third-generation iPad, and the fourth-gen iPod Touch. If you're waiting for your new iPhone 5 to arrive, don't worry. iOS 6 will come pre-installed. If your device isn't on this list, it won't be able to run iOS 6, and it might be time to consider upgrading to a new phone or tablet. Additionally, some of the devices that are supported won't get every single feature. For example, the iPhone 3GS won't have any of the new Siri features.

When Will iOS 6 Be Available?
Update: iOS 6 is available now, free.

But you may want to wait. Typically, if you try to get to iOS 6 when the update first appears to everyone, it takes much longer to download than if you wait until after the crush of early adopters. If you can sit on your hands until later this evening or even tomorrow, do! The update also seems to go faster via iTunes than over the air (explained further below).

If you choose to wait, and I do recommend it, you can get started with the first two steps on these instructions now for download and updating to iOS 6.

How to Get iOS 6
1. Update iTunes. If you haven't recently updated iTunes, take a moment to check whether you're running version 10.7.

Launch iTunes.

Go to Help > Check for Updates.

You want to update iTunes if you use it to back up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Backing up with iTunes has one very big advantage over backing up with iCloud: space. With iCloud, you have 5GB of free space (with more available if you pay for it), but with iTunes and your own computer, you're likely to have a lot more room to save your phone or tablet data.

2. Back up your device. This step may be the single most important one to follow. Back up your stuff!

With the latest version of iTunes installed, you can go ahead and your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch using iTunes (find detailed instructions for doing so in the linked article).

Alternatively, if you have enough space, . Again, complete instructions are included in the linked article.

3. Update to iOS 6. When iOS 6 arrives, you can update wirelessly, also known as over the air, which for most people with a good Wi-Fi connection will be the simplest method, but it could take much longer than the second method, which I'll explain next.

On your device, go to:

Settings > General > Software Update

You'll see instructions there to download and install it.

Alternatively, you can update your software via iTunes. This is the method I used, and which I recommend.

Plug your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch into your computer with the USB cord and Launch iTunes (if it doesn't open automatically). On the left side of iTunes, find your device, for example, "Jill's Phone," and click on it.

In the center of the screen, you'll see "Version" and a button "Check for Update." Click "Check for Update" (see below).

A dialog box will tell you that a new software version is available. Select "Download and Update" or just "Download." Note: My first few attempts with "Download and Update" failed. I then just tried "Download," which worked and took about 12 minutes. But you'll have to push one more button in the center of your iTunes window in order to put the operating system onto your phone.

4. Be patient! The worst thing you can do during an update is interrupt it, so just be patient and let the download of iOS 6 goodness to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch run its course. If you're anxious to get your paws on iOS 6, just be mindful of when the device shuts down fully to reboot. Leave it alone until you see a screen that prompts you for action.

Why iOS 6?
To learn more about what makes this operating system unique, see PCMag's full review of , as well as the slideshow below, which highlights five of the most exciting features in the new operating system. Also check out PCMag's full review of the .

For more from Jill Duffy, follow her on Twitter @jilleduffy.