What Apple's iOS 8 Means for EdTech

Well it wasn't a release that was jam packed full of features. Really, even though I have read all the "main" and "secret" features floating around in online articles, I haven't noticed much different in the normal use aside from the following (no educational benefits):

- Multiple predictive text options whilst typing (three in total, all visible).

- Camera timer.

- Modified Mail App on options.

- Different layout for iBooks.

However, it has brought a change that I thought should have been possible from day one, but never seemed like it was even on the table. Apple TV now allows screen sharing between devices that don't have to be on the same wifi network as the Apple TV. At the college I teach at we have complex wifi networks, which is common at schools. iPads are on different networks to Apple TV's and also MacBooks. Now that has changed and devices will be able to connect much easier regardless of the network they are on. In addition, recorded screen sharing from iPads to OSX Yosemite Mac's through QuickTime is a serious feature that any educator who regularly flips their classroom will be interested in. 

The possibility of simplified video creation to be disseminated over YouTube is enticing, and also means apps like Showme and Educreations are going to need to step up their features. One thing they don't allow is easy editing for mistakes made and QuickTime mirrored recording of iPad onto MacBooks will enhance this. Video is useful for many learning styles and also allows flipping and organised revision 'by demand' which is what 21st Century students want.

A couple of great new features that students will inevitably benefit from.