Apple shows new iOS 6 feature set

Apple has announced the latest version of its iOS mobile operating system, with version 6 of the software having 200 new features for the iPhone and iPad. Personalization options, such as allowing users to turn on a do-not-disturb mode, respond to phone calls with a set message and set VIP status for individuals whose e-mails would come through as alerts, were among the features revealed at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco, CNET.com reported Monday. Also included is an updated version of the Siri voice assistant program. In the new operating system a user's Apple ID and phone number will be consolidated, allowing calls and messages to be accessed on either the iPhone or iPad, Apple said. An app called Passbook will be able to store boarding passes, store gift cards and movie tickets, the company said. Expected to be available to consumers in the fall, iOS 6 will work with iPhones back to 3GS models and with second and third generation iPads.