Apple iOS 8.2 Release Likely In March, Ahead Of Apple Watch Launch In April: Report

Apple is likely to release iOS 8.2, the latest update to its mobile operating system, sometime in March, a report said Tuesday, adding that the new firmware will bring some general improvements and fixes to the OS, including support for the upcoming Apple Watch, which could be released in April.

Citing “a trusted source,” BGR reported that Apple is not planning to release iOS 8.2 until March. The new software is currently in the beta-testing stage for Apple’s developers, who have been working on applications for the new smartwatch.

Some of the new Apple Watch-compatible apps are expected to make an appearance at an Apple event rumored to take place next month, during which the company is expected to provide more details about the smartwatch as well as next-generation MacBook laptops, BGR reported.

On Tuesday, 9to5Mac also reported that iOS 8.2 may be released in March, possibly during the second week of the month. However, according to the publication, the leaked timeline “is not set in stone.”

The 9to5Mac report also said that the new software will mostly be an Apple Watch compatibility release as it brings the required functionality to connect the smartwatch via WatchKit, an application programming interface that allows developers to create apps for the Apple Watch.

The fifth beta of iOS 8.2 (build 12A4345d), along with Xcode 6.2, was released to developers on Monday, while the current public version, iOS 8.1.3, was rolled out last week. The firmware included many bug fixes, and also reduced the amount of storage required for users to update their device.