Apple unveils Apple iPhone 4S with new iOS5 operating system

Apple has announced an update for the iPhone 4, with a new dual-core processor, an improved camera and speech recognition.

At a press briefing at its headquarters in California, Apple was rumoured to be unveiling a whole new iPhone, dubbed the iPhone 5 but instead it revealed a number of updates to its current model. Called the iPhone 4S, it will look the same as the current iPhone 4, with all the changes taking place on the inside.

The iPhone 4S will come with a new operating system called iOS 5, which Apple says has over 200 news features. The new operating system will be available as an update for iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS.

Siri, Apple's name for the speech recognition function, is being touted as a context-sensitive 'assistant' that allows users to speak naturally when they have a question to ask.

If asked 'Will I need an umbrella this weekend?', the Siri application will understand that someone is asking about the weather and search for a local forecast. Siri can also be used to make calls, send text messages and emails or take notes.

There is also support for Apple's iCloud service, which lets users share documents between Apple devices. Another new addition is 1080p HD video recording with improved video in low light conditions.

Apple also said that the iPhone 3GS would now be available for free on certain mobile contracts, while the iPhone 4 would also be coming down in price.

The iPhone 4S will launch in the UK on Friday 14 October, with a price yet to be announced.