Recently Apple announced the next generation operating system for the iPhone (3.0) along with the Software Development Kit (SDK) for developers.According to Apple the new OS has a set of over 1,000 new API's allowing software developers many more choices than previously. API's are special software features that allow software programmers special access to hardware functionality.
The new iPhone SDK for iPhone OS 3.0 beta provides a wide range of new technologies to enhance the functionality of the current iPhone and iPod touch applications.
The new APIs also provide support for applications to communicate with hardware accessories attached to iPhone or iPod touch for the first time.
Here is an overview of the new features according to Apple:
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In App Purchase
Allow users to purchase content or services from your application using the Store Kit framework. This new framework handles the financial aspects of the transaction, processes payment with the iTunes Store, and provides your application with information about the purchase.
Peer to Peer Connectivity
Add multi-player capabilities to your games using the peer to peer network connectivity and in game voice communication features of Game Kit. This powerful new framework allows any application, not just games, to communicate between devices using Bluetooth-no pairing required.
Apple Push Notification service
The Apple Push Notification service provides a way to alert your users of new information, even when your application isn't running. Send text notifications, trigger audible alerts, or add a numbered badge to your application icon.
Maps
You can now embed maps within your applications using the new Map Kit framework. Map Kit works with the Google Mobile Maps Service and features panning and zooming, custom annotations, current location and geocoding.
Accessories
Using the new External Accessory framework, your application can now communicate with "Made for iPod" hardware accessories attached to iPhone or iPod touch through either the 30-pin dock connector or wirelessly using Bluetooth.
iPod Library Access
Access music, podcasts, or audio books in a user's iPod library directly from your application using the updated Media Player framework. You can play, repeat and shuffle songs or whole playlists, or create sequences of songs using custom searches.
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