Apple Preps iPhone 3.1 SoftwareApple Preps iPhone 3.1 Software

Apple's work on the iPhone's operating system continues. Weeks after the release of version 3.0, it has given developers a software development kit for the 3.1 version of the software.

The company just released the 3.0 software to the public two weeks ago, and it brought features such as cut and paste, a push-notification system, and Spotlight search to iPhone and iPod Touch owners. The updated firmware was also preloaded on Apple's iPhone 3GS, which sold over a million units in its debut weekend.

The iPhone SDK 3.1 was delivered to developers Tuesday, and it offers a handful of new features. One of the appealing factors of the iPhone 3GS is its ability to record, edit, and upload videos with its 3.2-megapixel camera. The latest firmware will enable users to trim videos without losing the excess parts, and will give third-party applications access to the video editing software.

Another new aspect of the 3.1 SDK is the ability for the iPhone 3GS to use voice control functionality over Bluetooth. This means users will be able to use various Bluetooth headsets for voice dialing, or to give audible commands to play music. Additionally, developers said the new SDK has various small user interface improvements, and more tactile feedback when moving applications.

The ability to send MMS messages is switched on by default with the 3.1 SDK, but users in the United States still cannot send these messages because AT&T does not support them yet. The second-largest carrier said it will offer this service later this summer at no additional cost to customers with text messaging bundles.

Apple has not said when it expects future versions of its iPhone software to be made available to the public.

The iPhone may be your next full-function computer. information has published an independent analysis of this topic. Download the report here (registration required).