Apple has begun testing the finished version of the next major update to iOS, ahead of a public release probably within the next couple of weeks.
App developers have received the “Golden Master” version of iOS 4.2, which indicates that work on new features and interface enhancements is complete. Subsequent tweaks will be limited to bug fixes with Apple comfortably on schedule to meet its stated November release date.
iOS 4.2 will unify the software running on all of Apple’s mobile devices. While the iPhone and iPod touch already run iOS 4.1, iPad users are stuck with an older iteration so they will get multitasking and app folders for the first time.
Multitasking means that the iPad gets a new app-switching bar similar to the iPhone’s, with iPod controls and an orientation lock. The physical orientation lock becomes a mute button, a change that hasn’t been particularly well received.
“What’s weird about this change is that I don’t think anyone is happy about it,” notes Daring Fireball blogger John Gruber. “It seems like Apple is standardizing for the sake of standardizing, not for improved usability. The iPhone and iPod Touch are, for many people, audio devices. But the iPad is a reading/viewing device for most of us.”
New features for all devices include AirPlay wireless streaming from iOS devices to suitably-equipped receivers from Apple — AirPort Express and the new Apple TV — and from licensed third parties. And for the first time, iOS devices will be able to print over-the-air, though only to a limited selection of printers.
The gold master also confirms the implementation of iPhone tethering, allowing the iPad to share the phone’s internet connection via Bluetooth, provided the phone tariff permits it.
