Today, Apple officially announced the iPhone 3.0 software update. They included many features that have been requested since the debut of the iPhone and many others as well.
Here’s a simple list of what will be available this summer as a free download for iPhone users ($10 for iPod Touch users).
In-Application Purchasing: Applications can piggy back on the iTunes account, allowing you to purchase additional items for that app without entering any credit card information (e.g. additional levels for games, ebooks, and more).
Peer-to-Peer Connectivity: Connect to other users via Bluetooth (using Bonjour) to play games, send business cards, or an assortment of other possibilities.
Third Party Apps and Accessories: Accessory Manufacturers can now make applications that communicate directly with the accessory. For instance, you can check your blood pressure and have the readings automatically display on your iPhone.
Push Notifications: Any app will be able to notify you of changes or updates without the app being open. As an example, your Instant Messenger app can display a badge number (like the Mail and SMS apps) when you receive a new message, even when it is closed.
Turn-by-Turn Directions: Apple will now allow developers to design apps that use turn-by-turn directions. This will open up the possibility for a true “Turn-Left-Now” gps solution.
Cut, Copy, and Paste: One of the most requested features has finally been added! Simply double tap a word then shrink or grow your selection with a pinch motion. Copy it using the menu, then paste it. Works across any app at any time.
Landscape Keyboard: When you turn your iPhone sideways, the keyboard will switch to Landscape mode (like in Safari) in all main apps. Will work in Mail, SMS, and Notes.
MMS: Finally, Apple has enabled the Multimedia Messaging capability of your iPhone. You will be able to send texts with photo and audio attachments. Also, you can now forward or delete an individual text. (Note: MMS features are NOT available for iPhone First Gen.)
Voice Memos: Designed by Apple, this new app will allow you to record, save, edit, email and MMS voice memos with ease.
Spotlight Search: A system-wide search that will be available by swiping left when at the home screen. Search your email, texts, and anything else!
A2DP Bluetooth: Wirelessly connect to Stereo headsets or speakers to play music.
Application iPod Access: Other Applications can access your iPod to play music in the background or any of a number of other possibilities.
Tethering: Apple has enabled tethering (using your phone as a 3G modem connected to your laptop), but it will be up to each carrier to enable the feature. In the USA, we’ll have to depend on AT&T to enable it. If they do, expect a fee in the $30/month range to use it.
Email Multiple Photos: You will now be able to use the Copy and Paste feature to send multiple photos via email. Small but much requested feature.
Password Saving: Safari will now remember usernames and passwords from sites if you enable the feature, instead of having to retype them so often. Additionally, if you subscribe to any WiFi hotspots (airports, McDonald’s, etc), your account info will be stored locally.
Anti-phishing: Safari will now warn you if a site you visit is a reported malicious site trying to scam you.
Browse Remote Content: Third party apps can now allow you to see or play another users iPod music wirelessly (if they accept, of course).
iPhone as a remote: You will be able to use your iphone to control accessories (TVs, stereos, etc.).
Additionally, Apple has improved the Calendar, YouTube, and Stocks applications. A new app dedicated to file sharing has been added. You can sync notes with your computer, shake your iPhone to shuffle your iPod playlist, better parental controls, view your call log, see meeting invitations, and more.
They also announced a host of new applications that will be available upon 3.0’s release.
Watch the official Apple Keynote announcing these features by clicking here.
