When does iOS 10 come out in the UK, how do I download it and what are the features?

THE tech world is holding its breath for the release of the iPhone 7 tonight.

But what if you can't afford to buy a pricey new smartphone or aren't due an upgrade on your contract for a good long time?

Never fear, because Apple has a little present that will give most iPhone and iPad owners a shot of fruity goodness - and it will be totally free.

The tech collosuss is expected to reveal details of its new operating system, iOS 10, at the iPhone launch this evening.

This will allow owners of fairly recent mobile iThings to update their gizmos, getting some smart new features without having to fork out a penny.

Here's how to get the update and a guide to all its new features.

How do I download iOS 10?

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This is an easy question - but you shouldn't feel silly for asking it.

All you'll have to do is wait until its released and then your device will give you a little nudge in the form of a push notification.

Then all you need to do is agree to update your phone and iOS 10 will be installed.

When is iOS 10 released?

Generally, the new software is released a week after it's announced, which means it will come out on September 14.

However, the singer Barbara Streisand has claimed to know differently.

She phoned Apple boss Tim Cook to complain that Siri was pronouncing her name incorrectly and was told it would be released on  September 30.

What features will iOS 10 introduce and what devices will it work on?

It will work on the iPhone 5 and all subsequent models later as well as the iPads beginning  with the 4th generation iPad. The software will also work on the iPad Mini 2.

Our consumer editor, Dan Jones, has already got his hands on the new operating system.

Here are his favourite features.

1. Lock and home screen revamp

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Engage with more detailed notifications on the home screen - such as reply to messages, see progress on your Uber or get more info on a news alert. Give a firm press and 3D Touch serves up more options.

Plus new feature called Raise to Wake might sound minor - lift up your locked phone to see all your notifications.

But it addresses an unwanted side effect of the the speedy fingerprint scanner which unlocks the iPhone when hitting the home button to light the screen - clearing alerts.

2. Siri now works with more apps

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Siri until now has only worked with Apple’s own apps, like Music, Messages and Email.

Now it also works with others - so you can order a taxi with Uber, send messages via WhatsApp and search photos on services like Pinterest.

3. QuickType now smarter

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Improvements to feature that suggests words or answers based on context when typing messages or emails. It now does more.

So if someone texts to ask where you are it can send your location. Or if you get a message such as “What is Mr Money’s email”, Siri can offer to send the information with a single tap.

4. Recognise your friends and family in Photos

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Facial recognition means photos can be grouped according to who is in the snap. But the app can also recognise other stuff like footballs, sea and sun loungers - and cluster photos based on what you are doing and with whom.

This lets it suggest themed Memories for, say, holidays or sports and so on.

5 Maps are smarter

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Maps now works with other apps so you can do lots more stuff in them - rather than just getting directions. So when planning a meal out, you can find the restaurant, invite pals, and of course get directions there - but also pay for the meal with Apple Pay and book a taxi home afterwards with Uber.

6. Music revamped

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All new re-design from ground up - with a simpler, less cluttered look. Within Library, it is much easier to find just your downloaded songs - until now tucked away.

There are also lyrics. Meanwhile, the less unpopular Connect feature loses its own tab. For You gives fast access to songs recommended for you and recently played music.

7. News easier to read

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The app now has 2,000 publications including The Sun. The For You section is split up into topics such as top stories, sports, tech rather than articles being jumbled up in a long feed.

There are also the option to subscribe to paid for magazines.

8. Control your home with Home

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A new Home app lets users who had smart gadgets control them easily. At the moment not many people have stuff like web connected cookers, fridges, lights, door locks and thermostats - but they are becoming more popular.

Even John Lewis is pushing them. This app will be the place to control them.

9. Phone calls better

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Yes, some people still uses their iPhone to make phone calls. There is a voicemail transcription service so you can see what people want you for when in a meeting.

Also calling from other services like WhatsApp is now built into the Phone app - so rather than just picking normal mobile call or Facetime you can also select WhatsApp.

10 More emojis in Messages

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Most frequently used app has a major update. So-called rich links mean if you send a webpage or a YouTube video the recipient gets a preview.

Emoji are now three times bigger. And there are emoji predictions that come up - with keywords that have a relevant emoji highlighted. Plus send handwritten replies.