News: iOS 5 May Featured Application Automatic Download

In the days leading to WWDC, Apple's iTunes seems to have leaked a new feature that must be coming in iOS 5. A MacRumors reader discovered that when asking iTunes to check application library for updates, iTunes update page reveals a new feature for iOS devices. The following line has been added to the MyApp Updates screen:

"After you've finished downloading, sync your device to this computer to begin using your updated apps. Or if your device has Automatic Download enabled for apps, your updates will download to your device without having to sync."

Sounds like you may be able to get the latest apps automatically installed on your iPhone or iPad without visiting the App Store or syncing with iTunes.

Obviously, such a feature doesn't exist on iOS devices now, which makes this a likely candidate for iOS 5 - which we all know is being announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday.

It's also interesting to note the page said "if your device has Automatic Download enabled for apps," which sounds like it's possible this feature can be enabled for other things. Let's not forget we heard earlier in the year that Apple might break the iTunes sync shackles to include over-the-air updates for iOS.

Apple has since pulled the wireless sync statement from iTunes, but thankfully MacRumors grabbed a screenshot before it did.

Reference:

http://www.macrumors.com/2011/06/03/itunes-leaks-automatic-download-over-the-air-updates-in-ios-5/

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