Apple announced that the iOS 4.2 was available for download for iPhone, iPad Touch and/or iPod Touch users on November 22, 2010. The iOS 4.2, often regarded as the most advanced mobile operating system in the world, will incorporate over a hundred new features from previous versions such as the iOS 4.0 and the iOS 4.1. These features will include Unified Inbox, Game Center and Multitasking among many others.
According to Steve Jobs, the iOS 4.2 will transform the iPad into a completely new gadget just in time for the holiday season. He stated that the iOS 4.2 will elevate the iPad to a whole new level and as such, the bar has been raised considerably higher for other tablets to compete with the iPad. This would make very few tablets, if any, worthy rivals of the new and improved iPad.
People who use the iPad would be able to switch between apps instantaneously and the apps themselves can run for long periods of time while preserving the battery life of the iPad, which is already well-known for having a long life. “Folders” allows for drag-and-drop options of various apps, so that users can organize their apps with ease. Also, Mail comes with a Unified Inbox, threaded message view and fast inbox switching for easier message accessibility and viewing.
Gamers can now challenge friends or be automatically matched with new opponents with Game Center. Everything from their scores to their achievements can be showcased and games played by friends can be easily accessed as well.
Music, Photos and Videos can be streamed wirelessly from the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch to Apple TV using AirPlay. This feature can be combined with AirPort Express to wirelessly stream to any powered or stereo speakers, or to AirPlay speakers that will be available in stores soon.
AirPrint is a Wi-Fi print architecture that eliminates the need for printer drivers, thus making printing easier. HP Photosmart, HP LaserJet Pro and HP Officejet are a few printers that will be compatible with AirPrint, and as such users with an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch can print photos or documents with just a tap.
Users can now locate their phones without having to subscribe to MobileMe, as the Find My iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch feature is free to use. They would only have to download the Find My iPhone app from the App Store to find missing devices. Not only that, the device can also be locked remotely and all data from the device can be erased to assure security of information in case the device is lost.
Other features of the iOS 4.2 include TV episode renting capability on the iPad using the iTunes app. Also, specific words and phrases can be easily found and highlighted in Safari; businesses can access higher levels of security with enhanced enterprise support; improved enterprise integration; and support for 25 additional languages.
The Multi-Touch user interface lets users connect with their in a revolutionary new way. And with a weight of 1.5 pounds, the iPad can easily be carried everywhere. Everything from business, news, and travel can be downloaded to the iPad and to date more than seven billion apps have been downloaded from the App Store.
By synchronizing their iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch with iTunes 10.1, users can download the iOS 4.2 update. The new release is compatible with a variety of Apple devices, such as the iPad, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, the 2G and 3G generation iPod Touch and the new 4G iPod Touch.
With such tremendous leaps in technological achievement, it is no wonder that Apple a primal innovative force that is reshaping and redefining the future of computing.