Apple iPhone gets new features as iOS 4.1 update released

Apple social networking, HD video uploads and a raft of bug fixes to boot

iOS 4.1 - the first major update to the Apple mobile operating system - has gone live, bringing new features and various bug fixes and security updates to the smartphone platform.

Feature updates in iOS 4.1 include Game Center, Apple's social gaming network, and support for TV show rentals via iTunes. Ping, Apple's social music network, is also incorporated into the release.

For a look at the update in action, see: Photos: Apple iPhone update iOS 4.1 tested.

The update also introduces HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography to the platform. HDR is an imaging technique that increases the amount of detail in the darkest and lightest areas of a photograph - an attempt to mimic the way the human eye see its environment.

Apple demoing Game Center during a press event
(Photo credit: James Martin/CNET)

iPhone 4 users with iOS 4.1 will also be able to upload HD videos over wi-fi to YouTube and MobileMe from their device.

Other new functionality in iOS 4 includes FaceTime videocalling directly from Favourites, and support for Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP)-supported accessories, including next and previous track control.

Bug fixes include improvements to Bluetooth performance, and tweaks to the iPhone 4's proximity sensor. Security issues patched include vulnerabilities with FaceTime, and TIFF and GIF image handling, and various holes in Apple's WebKit browser.

iPhone 4, iPhone 3G S and iPhone 3G users can download the iOS 4.1 providing they have installed the latest version of iTunes, however, not all new features work with all iPhone models. iPod Touch owners with a second generation or newer Touch can also get iOS 4.1.