Two days before the release of the iPad 2, Apple unveiled its next-generation mobile operating system, iOS 4.3
"The world's most advanced mobile operating system keeps getting better. Download the free iOS 4.3 Software Update and get new features that let you do even more with your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. The software update is free. It's easy. And you can download it right now," Apple said on its iOS Web site.
At its iPad 2 press event last week, Apple said iOS 4.3 would drop on March 11. Though there were rumors that the OS would launch on Tuesday afternoon, Apple instead released it earlier today. It is supported on all iPads, the third- and fourth-generation iPod touch, and recent iPhones.
At that event, Apple provided a sneak peek at what's included in iOS 4.3, including enhanced Safari performance, iTunes home sharing, AirPlay improvements, slider switch rotation, and a personal hotspot for the iPhone 4.
The Safari improvements include the Nitro JavaScript engine, meaning iOS will run Java twice as fast, Apple's Scott Forstall said last week. With iTunes home sharing, meanwhile, users can wirelessly stream content over a home Wi-Fi network from the PC to the iPad.
Apple also added updates to AirPlay. If you're sharing photos, for example, you can now use slideshow transitions on the iPad to your Apple TV and vice versa. The slider switch on the side of the tablet, meanwhile, can now be used as a rotation lock or a mute button.
With iOS 4.3, a personal hotspot will let people share their iPhone 4 Internet connection with the iPad. The Verizon iPhone already has a hotpost option, and AT&T confirmed recently that users can purchase a bundled 4GB data and hotspot iPhone 4 package for $45 per month.
At the iPad launch, Apple chief Steve Jobs also said that iMovie for iPad and GarageBand for iPad will be available in the App Store on March 11 for $4.99 each.