14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has officially released the next version of its iOS alongside a new beta of the Software Development Kit used to code applications. The betas, targeting select developers enrolled with Apple, are now freely available for download through the company’s iPhone Dev Center.
However, there is no version of the beta iOS 4.1 available for the iPad, putting to rest rumors of Apple unifying the software across platforms. It has also been revealed that iOS 4.1 does not alleviate reported antenna problems with the iPhone 4. Most likely, those issues will be addressed in a smaller incremental update - already confirmed by the phone’s makers - although it is unclear when Apple plans to ship it.
Posted on July 14 and carrying build number 8B5080c, iOS 4.1 beta is a pre release version of iOS 4.1. Apple is offering the .IPSW file as a free download to those enrolled with its iPhone Developer Program, alongside the Software Development Kit (SDK) also at version 4.1 Beta. The new iOS version is compatible with iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPod touch second generation, and iPod touch third generation, Apple says on its web site.
In an email sent to registered developers, Apple reportedly said, “iOS SDK and iOS 4.1 beta are now available from the iPhone Dev Center. Apps built with iOS SDK 4.1 beta should only be tested on devices running iOS 4.1. Make sure to read the Xcode 3.2.4 Readme and the iOS SDK 4.1 beta Release Notes before installing and downloading these new releases.”
A number of new additions have been documented by tech-site 9to5mac, including a new preference in the setting's restrictions menu, which allows parents to completely block FaceTime from by removing the option from contacts, as well as during phone calls. Apple has also included an option to restrict multiplayer interaction in Game Center. Finally, full AVRCP compatibility is now available with iOS 4.1. The mechanism will enable bluetooth headsets and car dashboards to integrate with the audio functions of devices running the new iOS 4.1.