First iOS 4.2 beta brings iPad support, AirPrint and AirPlay (updated 2x)

Apple has released the first beta of iOS 4.2 to developers. The update is most notable for iPad users who have been craving iOS 4.0 features like multitasking, folders and better email.

Here's what we know about iOS 4.2b1, so far:

• Build 8c5091e
• Available for the iPad, iPhone 4/3GS/3, iPod touch 4/3/2 (although AirPrint won't work on the second-generation iPod touch)
• Turns the iPad's screen lock into a mute switch. The rotation lock is now in the multitasking widget (tip: CNet's Josh Lowensohn)
• There's a new brightness slider control in the bottom left of the multitasking widget
• You can now add up to 20 items to a folder (up from 12 on the iPhone/iPod touch)
• Calendar can now import .ics files directly as a way to add events
• MobileMe email is not pushed to the device

The most exciting iOS 4.2 features pound for pound are AirPrint and AirPlay.

AirPrint automatically finds printers on local networks and allows you to print wirelessly over Wi-Fi without installing software. (HP’s forthcoming ePrint printers will be the first to support direct printing from iOS.)

According to Engadget you need the right configuration to get them working:

• AirPrint requires a compatible printer or sharing a printer with 10.6.5 running on your system. You'll see the dialog in Safari, Mail, and a handful of other native apps.
• AirPlay will pop up as a dialog box when your device discovers an AirPort Express or Apple TV on your WiFi network and allows you to stream your content directly to it.

One note of caution, you need to download and install Xcode 3.2.5 and iOS SDK 4.2 beta (which require 10.6) before installing 4.2 or you'll get a (10) error when you try to restore from the .ispw file.

Any other observations on iOS 4.2?