iPhone OS 4.0
Apple recently announced the next major software update for the iPhone, namely OS 4.0, currently scheduled for release in the Summer (2010).
Claimed to contain more than 100 new features for iPhone and iPod users to enjoy but not if you’ve got an iPod Touch 1st generation (I’ve got 2) which does not seem to be supported in OS 4.0 at all.
Is this a mechanism by Apple to phase out those laggards who still have the 1st generation iPod Touch?
In addition, if you have an iPhone (not 3GS) or 2nd generation iPod Touch you won’t be able to use the multi-tasking feature which comes in OS 4.0
With those limitations out of the way, let’s look in more detail at what’s coming.
An SDK, providing more than 1500 new APIs, is currently available in Beta form, and can be downloaded from the iPhone developer site.
Arguably the biggest feature will be the provision of multi-tasking.
Multitasking
Developers will be able to access seven multi-tasking services which will allow tasks to be performed in the background. This means, for example, that you will be able to make a Voice over IP call while playing a game or checking for email.
Folders
Apps can be organised into folders using drag-and-drop. This will allow a user to manage up to 2160 apps rather than the currently allowed limit of 180 apps.
Better eMail
Messages from all email accounts can be displayed together in a unified inbox. Messages can also be organised by thread and attachments can be opened in third party applications.
iBooks
The ability to browse, buy and read books. Flip through the pages of a book you’ve downloaded from the iBookstore while listening to your music collection. You will be able to browse tens of thousands of books, by title author or genre, check reviews and read sample pages before you buy.
Watch the Apple iPhone OS4.0 Keynote at
http://events.apple.com.edgesuite.net/1004fk8d5gt/event/
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