Apple iPhone OS 4.0 announced

Apple finally unveiled plans for version 4.0 of the iPhone operating system last week.

iPhone OS 4.0 apparently has over 100 new user features will be available for iPhone and iPod touch users, but it will depend on which model you own as to what features will be available to you, in usual Apple style…

As well, developers will have access to more than 1500 new APIs.

The features should help make it easier to interact with apps, manage email, read books and such.

Some of the new features will be:

• Multitasking (hold on, don’t get too excited!)
• Folders for app management
• Mail Overhaul (merged inbox, switch between inboxes and more)
• iBooks, a smaller version than the iPad - which has also been delayed incidentally
• Game Centre

Multi-tasking

Apple decree “We weren’t the first to this party, but we’re going to be the best…”  Hmmm…

The updated software will finally allow some apps to run in the background, without draining battery power dramatically and slowing performance. You’ll be able to tap the Home button twice to see a pop up list of open apps without losing what you’re up to.

Apple is quoted as saying:

“How are we adding multitasking while preserving battery life and performance? We looked at tens of thousands of apps in the app store, and we’ve distilled the services those apps need to run in the background. So we implemented those services, and we’re providing those services as APIs to developers so they can add multitasking while preserving battery life.”

They include audio from apps like Pandora Radio, VoIP (for Skype calls), push notifications, and task completion. Multitasking also will support local notifications and related security setting enhancements.

BUT only on the iPhone 3GS (not iPhone 3G or original iPhone) and not on iPod touches older than the new one.

The iPhone OS 4.0 will be available this winter, with it later being available for the iPad as well. Developer preview has been released.

More information

• Engadget: More 4.0 details
• CNET Review
• Apple continues to snub Adobe