Apple released its iPhone OS 4.0 beta 3 update, available for download here to registered developers. In addition to several bug fixes, the upgrade includes new features like file sharing between the desktop and iPhone via iTunes, iPod media player widgets, simplified multitasking and a screen orientation lock. It also extends to the iPhone and iPod touch the spellcheck/word replacement options introduced in iPhone OS 3.2, which powers Apple's iPad tablet.
Apple first released the iPhone OS 4.0 SDK in early April. The updated operating system features ports seven different APIs for multitasking--support for background audio, VoIP, background location, push notifications, local notifications, task completion and fast-app switching--and 1,500 new APIs overall. iPhone OS 4.0 also boasts a folders function that will allow users to organize and access apps; an improved email service with a unified inbox, fast inbox switching and threaded messages; enhanced enterprise support with improved data protection, mobile device management and wireless app distribution; and iBooks, the digital book reader introduced on the iPad. Also on tap: Apple's iAd mobile advertising initiative.
For more on iPhone OS 4.0 beta 3:
- read this Boy Genius Report article
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