iPhone OS 4.0 Features Multitasking, UI Changes, Source Says

As Apple’s “creation” event approaches, talk about the new version of iPhone software continues to intensify. Recently, a source close to Apple has been leaking iPhone OS 4.0 details, including such tidbits as multitasking (the ability to run apps in the background), system-wide multi-touch gestures, and several changes to the user interface, among others.

According to Boy Genius Report, citing its “trusty Apple connects,” Apple will bring the following changes to the iPhone software (extracted from the original report):

“[...] This time we’ve received some exclusive iPhone OS 4.0 details from one of our trusty Apple connects.

- There will be multi-touch gestures OS-wide. (Would make sense for that as the rumored OS for the iTablet is close if not the same as the iPhone).
- ‘A few new ways’ to run applications in the background — multitasking.
- Many graphical and UI changes to make navigating through the OS easier and more efficient. We haven’t had this broken down, but we can only hope for improved notifications, a refreshed homescreen, etc.
- The update will supposedly be available for only the iPhone 3G and 3GS, but will “put them ahead in the smartphone market because it will make them more like full-fledged computers” more than any other phone to date. Everyone is ‘really excited.’
- The last piece of information is the most vague, but apparently there will be some brand new syncing ability for the contacts and calendar applications.”

BGR has often been the source of Apple rumors, although the site’s track record is mixed Apple-wide. Citing a reliable source, last year, BGR incorrectly indicated iTunes 9 would add Blu-ray support and said Apple would create a social-media consolidation application. However, speculation focusing on the iPhone and iPod has always done well for BGR. A week from now, we’ll see whether its source has been reliable.