Apple has issued updates to its desktop computer and mobile device operating systems that, among other things, allow users to access the company’s new cloud service, iCloud.

Both OS X 10.7.2 and iOS 5 were made available for download overnight, the former via software update and the latter via iTunes 10.5, which was released yesterday.

The launch of iOS 5 represents the last time users will need to connect their device to a computer via USB, as updates and backups will in future be managed via iCloud.

Both releases are timed to coincide with the launch of the new iPhone, iPhone 4S, taking place internationally on Friday. Apple has still not confirmed when the device will be available here in New Zealand.

As for iCloud, the first 5GB of online storage will be free, with additional storage available at the rate of $25 for 10GB, $50 for 50GB and $125 for 100GB.

Both updates have dozens of new features; click here for more on iCloud, and here for more on iOS 5.

Update: Apple users around the world are complaining of difficulty upgrading their iPhones and iPads to iOS 5.

Twitter is awash with comments about the 'internal error' or 'error 3200', apparently caused by Apple's servers struggling to handle the huge jump in traffic.

Certainly, if those who have managed to download the software immediately open up iCloud and start uploading data-heavy content such as photos and music, it's going to be a lot for Apple's systems to handle.

Hopefully the problem is temporary, and not a sign of bigger problems such as those experienced with the launch of MobileMe.