iPad SDK integrates new features for widgets, dictionaries
updated 06:55 pm EST, Thu February 18, 2010
SpringBoard now directs URL clicks to apps
The iPhone 3.2 OS allegedly integrates several additional iPad features that Apple has yet to formally introduce, an unnamed source has told AppleInsider. The Contact app, known as MobileAddressBook, has been converted into a utility labeled LittleBrownBook. The app is believed to be available as a standalone version, or as a widget that provides contact information from within other applications.
The source also claims to have uncovered a new method used by the OS for handling URLs. SpringBoard now directs URL clicks to various applications, potentially expanding the options for URL shortcuts involving phone numbers, addresses, or websites. The system reportedly could be used for routing links for social networking sites to a native app rather than Safari.
The iPad OS is said to include the six dictionaries that are typically contained in Mac OS X, leading to speculation that users may be able to take advantage of new word-lookup features for replacing words or finding definitions.
It is unclear which features will be included in the official SDK, as the current version is still in beta testing.
