Apple's iOS 8 and the next generation iPhone 6 are coming out soon and by now you should starting preparing yourself for the upgrade. Here are some useful tips to prevent data loss and recycle your old iPhone to get the best price.

Compatibility with iOS 8

In case you are going to update other Apple devices, you need to determine first if they are compatible to run iOS 8. As of date, here are the devices compatible for update with iOS 8:

- iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C

- iPad 2, iPad with Retina, iPad Air, iPad Mini and iPad Mini with Retina

- iPod Touch fifth generation

Older models not listed above are not compatible with iOS 8 and you should purchase any models found on the list.

Backup Your Files

Before updating to iOS 8, perform a backup of all data files stored on your devices using any of the two methods.

1. You can use the iCloud backup service using a wireless connection than tethering to save bookmarks, contacts, calendar details, documents from iOS apps and Mac apps, mail messages, notes and shared photo streams. You can use this process to restore data anywhere using broadband Wi-Fi connection.

2. You can iTunes as an alternative to iCloud or if you don't have an iCloud account. It requires your computer, the compatible cable and the device. You may activate Manually Backup and Restore function inside the iTunes program.

Freeing Up Memory

Check the list of apps installed on your device then remove those you don't need any longer. Moreover, make space for the new OS version by deleting unnecessary images and videos stored on the device.

Keeping System Settings

An OS update may remove your personalised settings and even put all changes back to default. It is advisable to take notes of all personalised settings you've configured on your device such as location services.

Prepare Your iTunes

Make sure that the installed iTunes program is updated. It may feature certain iOS 8 compatible apps made by developers which can be added to your device later on.

Recycling Your Old Device

Figuring out the proper ways to sell your old device before the new models are released will give you the best price possible.

1. Backup your device.

2. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Contents and Settings.

3. Contact your carrier for guidance on transferring service to the new owner.

Do not manually delete iCloud data on your account or the content will also be deleted from the servers.

In case you no longer have your iOS device, perform these steps:

1. Ask the new owner to erase all content and settings similar to the steps above.

2. You can use the iCloud or Find My iPhone on the device to erase it remotely. Remove it by signing in to your account - icloud.com/find - then select the device and click Erase. When the device has been erased, click Remove from Account.

3. If you are unable to complete steps 1 and 2, change your Apple ID password. The change will not remove any personal information but will make sure that the new owner can't delete your iCloud information.