Apple has been pushing iOS firmware updates to the iDevices via their popular iTunes application for the longest. When a new software update is available, users need to plug their device in via USB, click update, and the new software version is downloaded and installed. Apple’s competitors have already been offering a different, more direct method for software updates that happens over-the-air. Specifically, when an update to Google’s Android operating system or HP/Palm’s webOS is released, users are provided an update notification and can update the software right on their phone. No computer required. Folks over at 9to5mac are reporting that Apple & Verizon are planning to introduce over the air updates for Verizon iPhone. In OTA updates, new firmware update notifications are pushed via carrier and users has option to accept & reject update. When user accepts updates the phone starts downloading firmware over the network and updates are installed without any user intervention. This method is definitely easy way of keeping your iPhone updated and Apple will likely introduce OTA updates in iOS 5 and above. As per 9to5mac sources: Apple and Verizon Wireless are said to have been in talks over these wireless software updates since early this year. Sources could not comment on whether or not Apple is negotiating similar deals with AT&T or international iPhone carriers. The iOS-based AppleTV has been able to update itself without iTunes intervention so the hooks are obviously in iOS.  Two things to note: Updates are now over 600MB.  Apple would have to make these smaller to get the carriers to agree to push these things as they are.  We believe that Apple will make the updates much smaller by using incremental patches rather than full OS downloads iTunes provides the backup to the iOS device so a failed update would need some sort of backup.  We think there will be a Cloud-based backup system. Mockup below: Mockup via Blogs DNA Apple is expected to announce the iOS OTA update in its next release which will be unveiled at WWDC 2011. As usual, stay tuned for more news and info on this topic by following us on Facebook, Twitter and/or by subscribing to our RSS Feed. Read more Authors:

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