The announcement of iOS 6 in June came with plans for a fall release, suggesting then Apple would launch the next version of iOS around the launch of the next iPhone. With the iPhone 5 expected to be unveiled this Wednesday, iOS 6 is now a lot closer.

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In 2011 iOS 5 was launched on Oct. 12, eight days after the launch of the iPhone 4S. If 2012 follows that pattern, the launch of the iPhone on Sept.12 would put Sept. 20 as the release date. iOS 5 was also launched in the middle of the week, so iOS 6 may launch between Sept. 18 and 20, as suggested by previous rumors.

Alternatively, Apple could wait until the iPhone 5 is available, considering that iOS 6 is optimally built for the device. Ninety days between the announcement and the iPhone 5's actual seems like an educated guess, considering the history of past announcements. 

A degree of skepticism surrounds the launch of this iPhone. Google is making advances with Android, improving performance and its much-criticized user experience, while Microsoft is making Windows Phone 8 competitive through support for multi-core processors and high definition screens. The announcement of Nokia Lumia 920 for the latter adds another device to the list of those using a plus-4-inch screen; the popularity of the form factor continues despite Apple's claim that 3.5 inches is ideal.

Apple is typically quick in getting its operating systems available to download. Whether users will be able to download iOS 6 on launch is a different matter considering the high demand, though that will probably take a backseat to the anticipation for the iPhone 5.

Apple's Sept. 12 event will be covered at it happens right here on Mobilenapps.com. It begins at 10AM Pacific time; head here for the time in different zones. Last week Mobile & Apps discussed the rumored features for the upcoming iPhone.

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