Thaindian News

Apr 8 (THAINDIAN NEWS) Apple previewed its iPhone OS 4 software today, and released the beta version to it’s iPhone Developer Program members. The new beta release has an updated Software Development Kit which flaunts over 1500 new applications! There will also be over 100 new features available to iPhone and iPod Touch over this summer. Some of the new features will be Multitasking for third party apps, folders which can make it easier to access and organize apps, improved mail with a unified box that will have faster inbox switching and message threading. There will also be enhanced Enterprise support, better data protection, mobile device management, wireless app distribution and lots more!

“iPhone OS 4 is the fourth major release of the world’s most advanced mobile operating system,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “We’re delivering over 100 new features, including multitasking, folders, a unified inbox, deeper Enterprise support, and an iPhone version of our iBooks reader and online iBookstore.”

The multitasking feature will make moving between apps much easier and faster. Seven services such as background audio, (for playing music in the background)VoIP,(for receiving a call even when the phone is asleep or other apps are open) and more, which will all be possible while battery life and current open apps performance will be improved greatly.

Drag and drop will be available in the folders, simply dragging one icon onto another one will form a new folder. The name of the new folder will be automatically generated based on the App store that the icon belongs to. (for instance “Games”) The user can rename any of these folders easily and quickly. The folders will allow the user to access and organize over 2000 apps on the iPhone.

The Unified email inbox simply means that the user can see all of their mail from different email accounts all in one box on their phone. With just a few touches of the finger or stylus, the user can switch between in boxes to see their messages from any account. Email message threading will also be available.

The new mobile advertising platform will make it possible for the user to click on an ad and view it without ever leaving the app they were using. No more going back after the click and trying to find your place. You will automatically open a full screen interactive ad when you click, leaving your former page easily attainable.

There is also a preview of Game Center, which will allow developers to create apps that will enable users to invite friends to play a game, start a multi-player game, and compare high scores.

There will also be new security measures in the iPhone OS 4. The new Data Protections feature uses the user’s pass-code as an encryption key to protect email messages, and attachments which they have stored on the phone. The phone will also offer the option to set an even longer, more complex pass-code to make the device even more safe.

The iPhone OS 4 will be available as a software update to iPhone and iPod Touch users over the summer. Another version of this will be coming to the iPad in the fall. All of the features may not be available on later models.