Apple has released its much-awaited iOS 6.1 update for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, which brings several new features, enhancements, as well as bug fixes and security updates.

iOS 6.1 is a minor upgrade, but one that iDevice users would want to download to gain security fixes and benefit from enhancements, including an improved Siri which can now be used to purchase movie tickets

Updating to iOS 6.1 will take between 15 to 30 minutes, and this does not include the time taken to back up your iDevice. The update is free and the eligible devices include the iPhone (5, 4S, 4, and 3GS), iPad (2, 3, and 4), and iPod touch (fourth and fifth generation).

Here's the step-by-step guide to help you update to iOS 6.1.

Important to Remember

Before updating your iDevice to iOS 6.1, remember to read through the instructions.

- Remember to back up the iPhone or iPad to iTunes or iCloud. It is unlikely that something things go wrong, but better to be safe than sorry and have a recent update in case something happens.

- To take a backup of the data, plug your iDevice into the PC, load iTunes and let it automatically backup.  If you are using iCloud, then go to Settings> iCloud > Storage and Backup. Next, tap Backup Now.

- Ensure your phone's battery power is at least 50 percent, if not fully charged, to avoid disruption due to power loss.

- Remember that you will not be able to use your iPhone to make calls or send messages while the iOS 6.1 update is on.

Updating to iOS 6.1

Users can update to iOS 6.1 either through Wi-Fi or by plugging in to their PC.  The steps to update are as follows.

Step 1: Tap Settings > General > select Software Update.

Step 2: After you have selected the Software Update option, the screen should load and check for new updates.

Step 3: Next, the iDevice will show the iOS 6.1 download option. Tap Download and wait till it's finished.

Step 4: You will be prompted once the download is complete. Tap Install Update. Remember to keep the iPhone plugged in as the update will not work if the iDevice is unplugged mid-way before it is completed.

Alternately, to update to iOS 6.1 via iTunes follow the following steps.

Step 1: Open iTunes.

Step 2: Select the Devices Tab on the left of the screen.

Step 3: Next, Select Summary at the top of the window.

Step 4: Next, select Check for Update.

Step 5: Select the Download option and proceed to download. Once the download is complete, Install.

Once the update is installed you're good to go and can tinker away with iOS 6.1 on your iDevice. However, remember that the update can take some time to download, which can be quite tiresome, so you need to be patient.