Apple has today released the first beta of iOS 4.3 to registered developers. The iOS 4.3 beta is available for iPod touch (3rd and 4th gen), iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPad, for the first time iPhone 3G devices are excluded from the update. Apple is also offering a version of iOS 4.3 for the new Apple TV so developers can test AirPlay functionality from their apps.
Included in the beta is the new Personal Hotspot functionality that appeared with the unveiling of the Verizon iPhone earlier this week. Although at this stage it is unknown whether carriers will be able to choose whether they allow access to the feature.
World of Apple will offer a more detailed look at iOS 4.3 in the coming hours but for now the new features of the update include:
- 4 or 5 finger multi-touch gestures on iPad
- Option on the iPad to use the hardware switch as orientation lock or mute switch.
- Personal Hotspot is enabled, allowing access to a personal Wi-Fi network from up to 5 devices.
- AirPlay streaming from third party apps.
- iAds for the iPad