iPhone Firmware

Apple has launched the first beta version of iOS 4.1 to developers along with the updated SDK, which means it won't be long until the firmware is released to the general public. Several changes and improvements are included in the new version of iOS 4, although reports have indicated the operating system does not correct antenna reception issues.

The calculation method for displaying bars of cellular signal strength has been revised, and the bar graphics themselves are enlarged. Apple previously announced that the formula they used to convert signal strength to bars was misleading, tacking on extra bars in areas of weak reception. iPhone modem firmware is updated from 01.59.00 to 02.07.01 in the new operating system.

iPhone 3GS and 3G owners are expecting the iPhone OS 4 release from Apple today. Renamed iOS 4, the new firmware adds 100 new features including multitasking, folders and more. Apple watchers are predicting that the company will make the update available on its servers by 10 am Pacific time (1 pm EDT).

Demand is sure to be high as millions of devices, including the iPod Touch, are eligible to receive the operating system upgrade for free. Users will certainly flood Apple's servers with requests, much like the iPhone 4 pre-order swamped AT&T and Apple. iOS 4 requires iTunes 9.2.