Apple previews new iPhone app store, 2.0 firmware, and intense new features
You’ve probably heard the big news about the 3G iPhone, right? It was annoucned today at WWDC alongside the iPhone app store and 2.0 firmware… just as expected.
Steve Jobs’ keynote speech was a bit underwhelming this time around — then again, this is the World Wide Developer’s conference. Amidst the fun and engaging talk about code, Mobile Me, and other jibberish, Apple previewed the iPhone apps and the download store.
The store is accessible from anywhere, of course, via a data or Wi-Fi connection, but unfortunately extra-large programs will only download via Wi-Fi or through a computer. Apple will also provide options for companies and organizations to distribute apps specifically to their employees and members. Only those connected to the company intranet will have access to those apps.
Apple also previewed Loopt, which already runs on other phones including handsets from competing companies such as Sprint, Verizon, and T-Mobile. The location-based social network allows friends to see other friends (on a location aware map) when they are nearby. This, of course, means users can share their location information, "status", blog entries, and photos with friends and even AIM buddies. Friends can also recommend places and events for others to visit.
Games such as Super Monkey Ball — video preview available at the Apple site — and Band take advantage of the iPhone’s accelerometer (tilt-sensor) and touch-screen. Super Monkey Ball refers to Sega’s classic Monkey Ball series, and allows users and their iPhone-wielding friends to make music together. Choose an instrument, learn it on the iPhone, and play/record music. Interesting ideas, but will they be fun? There’s only one way to find out.
The iPhone 2.0 firmware makes this all possible, and it’ll come pre-installed on all iPhone 3G handsets. It’ll also become downloadable to previous iPhone (2G) customers sometime in July, allowing previous customers to feel like they’ve also upgraded… in some immaterial way, we guess.
The 2.0 firmware will be very similar to 1.X fimrware we’re all used to nowadays, but it will include key upgrades such as the app store to make the iPhone experience what it should’ve been from the beginning with intense features such as contact search, better email management, and a scientific calculator, dammit! Oh wait, we’re still waiting for a slide-out physical keyboard, Apple…
…but the new iPhone 3G ad makes us want one so bad.
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July 5th, 2008
How the hell do you run this site and not own an iPhone… “waiting for a slide-out keyboard”!!?!?!?!?! Wow. Can’t fathom.
July 15th, 2008
I don’t want a fixed keyboard. That will add to the size.