The next iteration of the iPhone's software, version 4.0, is said to be under development and could possibly be released this summer. Already rumors are swirling, with the latest suggesting that the new operating system will support multitasking, which the current iPhone OS does not.
"Apple plans to deliver a multi-tasking manager that leverages interface technology already bundled with its Mac OS X operating system," Apple Insider dished, citing unnamed sources with a "proven track record in predicting Apple's technological advances."
Apple Insider added that, according to its sources, Apple had "developed a "full-on solution" to multitasking on the iPhone OS but offered no specifics on how the technology would optimize resource conservation and battery life -- two of the most critical issues surrounding the matter, alongside security."
No specifics about the iPhone 4.0 software have been leaked, but there has already been plenty of criticism of the current OS to predict the problems likely to be addressed by the new firmware.
The current operating system does in fact support multitasking, but does not allow third-party apps to run in the background. Furthermore, only certain Apple apps (i.e. the Phone, Mail, Safari, iPod, SMS, voice recorder) can continue to run if the user launches another app.
Users can already get around iPhone's security module by "jailbreaking" their iPhone--although they open themselves up to malware and piracy.
From the MacObserver:
Even background services that seem harmless, such as Google's Latitude, can expose users to unapparent security threats if they don't have the security credentials to recognize the potential risks involved with, for example, advertising their location.
In addition, mobile devices have limited RAM and battery life to devote to multitasking, but so far, Apple Insider says, there are "no specifics on how the new iPhone OS technology would optimize resource conservation and battery life."
Eager for more gossip about forthcoming iPhones? Check out this visual guide to iPhone 4G rumors.