iPhone OS 4.0 Adds File Sharing Feature

According to the Boy Genius Report, iPhone OS 4.0 has a new File Sharing feature that allows one to transfer and sync files directly between the iPhone and a computer. Other new findings are detailed in the report, including media player widgets, some changes to multitasking, and an orientation lock built in the software.

To use the File Sharing function, users plug their handset and allow it to be recognized in iTunes. “Apple is finally going to allow you to transfer files to and from your iPhone straight from your computer,” BGR’s description reads. The Apps tab then shows a File Sharing option as the user scrolls down.

On the left side of the screen, one can choose a title from a list of supported apps. The right side of the screen then allows the user to copy files into the app’s sandbox. Alternately, they can save these files to the computer’s hard drive. “We have not been able to get the feature to work as of yet, but it seems a lock that support will be enabled for more than the Mail app,” the tech site notes.

Describing the important, new media player widgets, BGR reveals that, “When you fire up the multitasking interface you see a new set of widgets that control the iPod application. To access it simply swipe to the left. From there you’ll be able to play, pause, move between tracks and open up the iPod app itself.”

Imagery provided by the site also depicts the newly included orientation lock, which can be enabled by simply launching the multitasking interface (with a double click of the home button), at which point the user must swipe to the left until the end of the app tray. The Portrait Lock icon is revealed, and the user just needs to tap it once to lock, and again, if they want to unlock. Other cool, new features are described in the BGR report, located here.