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iPhone OS 3.2 rumors: an iPad camera, video calling and more
1) The next version of the iPad is getting a camera. This is the least immediately helpful possibility, but it also sounds completely likely. A lot of tech pundits assumed the first-gen iPad would include a camera, so I'd bet on seeing it next time around.
2) Multitasking is coming to the iPhone sooner rather than later. Although a video call and another task at once might be a lot to ask on the small screen - and not that useful, either - we can at least hope that the next software update brings the ability to run third-party apps in the background. The iPad already has wicked multitasking potential, with the introduction of new popover windows that don't take up the entire screen.
Another useful new feature rumored for 3.2 is the ability to download and locally store files using Safari, and open them in other apps. The lack of access to the iPhone's filesystem is one of the biggest reasons that fans of more open mobile operating systems scoff at Apple, and, although this wouldn't totally shut down that line of criticism, it would be a step in the right direction. File uploading is also reportedly included in the update.
Check out the Engadget post for more info, including possible SMS support on the iPad and some slightly more far-fetched rumors about a stylus and a handwriting keyboard.
Comments
13
Subscribe to commentsSlappyJan 31st 2010 2:22PM
So, we're excited about putting a camera on the back of the iPad so it has to be held up with both hands to be of any use.
I don't see how that is going to be at all comfortable.
SuzieFeb 2nd 2010 12:52AM
I'm hoping the next iPhone has at least 1 of these.
Which would you like to see?
A front lens.
Two lens... front and back.
A switch that flips a tiny mirror than faces the lens front or back.
A pivoting lens that rotates 180 for front/back/middle.
The last idea has all kinds of possibilities:
Take pictures/video just by setting the iphone into any stand, or even laying flat on a desk... with the lens pivoted up towards your face.
(No need to try to hold your camera steady... and arms length... during a 30 mins video-chat.)
SteapsJan 31st 2010 3:35PM
No, the camera will be front-facing for video conferencing, and _only_ on the 3G model of the iPad. And no, I cannot prove this as of now, but you'll see :).
MollyJan 31st 2010 3:47PM
Multitasking AND the possibility to download and store files locally ... totally awesome!!!
EvenioJan 31st 2010 4:08PM
"Multitasking AND the possibility to download and store files locally ... finally adequate!!!"
Fixed your spelling. Don't mention it. :)
DollyFeb 2nd 2010 12:52AM
There are several small, free apps that let you download (or even wireless copy files from your PC) to your iPhone.
Been available for years now.
MarkBJan 31st 2010 4:41PM
Who says the camera would have to be integrated? Make an iSight that clicks into the port on the iPad and you're good to go!
JayenkaiJan 31st 2010 4:53PM
It can already play music, and do something else at the same time..
Just because Video Conferencing might also let you "Do something else" doesn't necessarily make this true multitasking.
wegotspammedJan 31st 2010 7:55PM
WOW
Apple finally gets multitasking and file storage like my Blackberry and the last 5 or 6 models before it.
sitrucFeb 1st 2010 2:43AM
The engadget apple filter isn't working. Huh? This isn't engadget?
Scott EzellFeb 2nd 2010 8:22AM
Sooner rather than later? I think we've passed sooner...this is the later. Does iPhone qualify as a smartphone without multitasking? Seems that all the others have it.
JamesFeb 11th 2010 10:28AM
Does anybody else think its possible that the 1st gen will have a camera but that they just didnt announce it due to lack of programming to run it? Apple doesn't showcase partial products or features, they may be waiting for that "new programmer" to create some sleek program which they'll show off sometime between now and launch. I believe that thats why they pushed the 3G release date out so far as to have time to build such a program. Possibly just the 3G will have camera support making it a more attractive buy.
vanetojFeb 22nd 2010 11:48PM
ok, multitasking while videocalling has been done by nokia already!!two cameras has been done for a few years now too- why is the iphone so behind always???and why is the ipad behind again?? i am so sick of this holding back politics of apple where every stupid small detail is the next generation and they blow it out of proportion when it has been around already! put two cams on the ipad so we could use it as a camera too if we wanted too and a high quality front camera for videocalling. greedy apple greedy