Apple has pulled the wraps off the latest update to its iOS mobile operating system at its World Wide Developers' Conference (WWDC).

The company has reputedly introduced over 200 new features, releasing a beta version to iOS Developer Program members as well.

One of the biggest news stories to come out of the event was that Apple was dropping Google Maps in lieu of its own Maps app.  The app boasts turn-by-turn navigation, user-generated live traffic information, a Flyover view and compatibility with Siri.

The next big feature to be announced was Facebook integration for contacts and calendar entries, with the ability to post directly from Notification Center, Siri and Facebook-enabled apps like Photos, Safari and Maps.

The Passbook feature was also unveiled at the event, being branded as "the simplest way to get all your passes in one place".  The Passbook functionality allows users to store digital copies of important documents such as airport boarding passes, loyalty cards and tickets.

"iOS 6 continues the rapid pace of innovation that is helping Apple reinvent the phone and create the iPad category, delivering the best mobile experience available on any device," said Scott Forstall, Apple's senior vice president of iOS Software.

"We can't wait for hundreds of millions of iOS users to experience the incredible new features in iOS 6 including the new Maps app, expanded Siri support, deep Facebook integration, Shared Photo Streams and the innovative new Passbook app."

The company also confirmed that its Siri voice assistant would now be available for the new iPad, including added support for Spanish, Italian, Korean, Mandarin and Cantonese. Additionally, the voice assistant has received an Eyes Free mode, enabling you to interact  with your iPhone using nothing more than your voice.

Other enhancements include FaceTime calls over 3G networks, a Do Not Disturb option and the ability to decline calls with a quick message.

iOS 6 will be available to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users this fall (spring in Southern Hemisphere) as a free software update.

Apple also unveiled a new Macbook Pro laptop, complete with a 2880x1800 Retina Display.