iOS 4.0: Full Details
**iPhone OS 4.0: A Comprehensive Overview**
In this article, we provide a detailed breakdown of iPhone OS 4.0 based on the transcript from Duncan’s video. The event was held just minutes before the recording, and he shares his excitement about the new features and some disappointing news regarding compatibility.
### Multitasking
One of the most anticipated features is multitasking, which works in various ways depending on the app. For example, Pandora streams audio without running the full app, while GPS apps can continue navigating in the background. Duncan emphasizes that not all apps will support full multitasking but highlights the inclusion of a dot indicator for active apps.
### Fast App Switching
Fast app switching complements multitasking by allowing users to save their progress in games and return quickly to where they left off. While it doesn't fully multitask, it's particularly useful for memory-intensive tasks like gaming.
### iBooks on iPhone & iPod Touch
iBooks has arrived on the iPhone and iPod Touch, offering a similar experience to its iPad counterpart. Although not groundbreaking, it’s a welcome addition for users who prefer reading on their mobile devices.
### Folders on Home Screen
A surprising feature is the introduction of folders on the home screen. By dragging apps onto each other, users can create folders with thumbnails of contained apps. This organizational tool is well-implemented and useful for those accustomed to jailbroken phones.
### Custom Wallpaper
Another notable update is the ability to change the home screen wallpaper, a feature previously associated with jailbreaking. While it doesn’t match the customization of Winterboard, it’s still a nice touch.
### Mail App Improvements
The mail app has been redesigned with a unified inbox, supporting multiple accounts and enhanced Exchange features. Although Duncan finds it visually similar, he acknowledges its utility for users with numerous email accounts.
### Game Center: iPhone's Xbox Live
Game Center introduces multiplayer capabilities, allowing users to join lobbies and earn achievements. This feature is compared to Xbox Live, promising to revolutionize gaming on iOS devices once developers adopt it.
### Bluetooth Support
iPhone OS 4.0 supports Bluetooth for keyboard connectivity, similar to the iPad experience. However, only newer devices like iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch third generation are compatible.
### iAd: Innovative Advertising
iAd allows ads to function as apps, offering features like video playback and app downloads. Demonstrated examples include Toy Story movie trailers and theater listings, showcasing its potential despite being an advertisement.
### Compatibility Limitations
A significant downside is the lack of support for older devices like iPhone 3G and first-generation iPod Touch. These users can update to OS 4.0 but will miss out on key features like multitasking. Similarly, the original iPhone and iPhone 2G are no longer supported.
### iPad Updates
While the event focused on iPhone and iPod Touch, Duncan mentions that iPhone OS 4.0 will come to the iPad this fall. However, specific details remain unclear.
### Developer Previews & Release Date
Developer previews were released around the time of the event, with a public rollout planned for summer. Duncan expresses excitement about testing and using the new features, despite personal disappointment over his own device’s incompatibility.
In conclusion, iPhone OS 4.0 offers significant advancements while highlighting some limitations. The combination of multitasking, folders, and iAd makes it an exciting update for supported devices. While older devices are left behind, the future holds promise with updates for the iPad.