iPhone release initially limited to GSM phones

In announcing the iPad 2, Apple has also revealed more details of iOS 4.3, a long-awaited firmware update. Mobile Safari for instance is getting a new "Nitro" JavaScript engine. More significantly however the company is introducing iTunes Home Sharing support, which lets people access music and video content over local Wi-Fi.

AirPlay is being enhanced with the ability to stream audio and video from websites and third-party apps to an Apple TV. New first-party app push options include previews in the iTunes app, and streaming videos recorded in iOS. Significantly, pushable website content likewise includes video.

As previously known, v4.3 will extend personal hotspot support beyond the Verizon iPhone to all iPhones. The feature allows for up to five devices connections, including a mix of up to three over Wi-Fi, three over Bluetooth and/or one over USB. The iPad, meanwhile, will now be able to toggle its switch between mute or orientation lock.

The new firmware will go live on March 11th, the same day as the iPad 2 launch. Devices made prior to the iPhone 3GS are incompatible, and all iPhone owners must be using a GSM model. Verizon iPhones already have hotspot support.

by MacNN Staff