Improved Safari performance, podcast support, and more.
November 21, 2008 - The highly anticipated 2.2 update for iPhone and iPod Touch launched late Thursday night, bringing a wealth of major additions and bug fixes to users. The update is a meaty 250 MB and contains the following new features and updates.
Safari
With the 2.2 update, Apple set out to improve the "stability and performance" of the Safari web browser. In addition, the interface itself has seen a quick redesign so that the URL and search boxes appear on the same line, clearing up some of the clutter. The http:// preface of the current URL has also been hidden.
Podcast
One of the most sought after addition users have been eagerly waiting to be included in a update, the ability to download podcasts directly to their iPhone with connecting to a computer that was running iTunes, was finally included with last night's package. Functionally similar to purchasing music, except of course that all podcasts are free, the new podcast support sends all downloaded content to your podcast list in the iPod app on the iPhone, finally creating a streamlined method for obtaining some of the best free content the web has to offer.
Maps
Overall, the Maps app appears to have received the largest upgrade, such as support for Goggle Street View, the cool Google function that enables you to see real photos of various locations that also contain map data. An orange icon alerts users if a Map search location has the Street View option. Simply tap the orange icon and you are immediately taken to panoramic views of the area. Keep in mind though that Street View only works in landscape orientation with your phone.
Additional features added that were previously only available on the Goggle's map website include additional transportation directions. When in Directions mode you'll now find three options at the top of the screen to choose from: driving directions, transit directions, and walking directions. Tap any of the buttons to see all your available methods of getting to where you need to go.
Other New Stuff
On top of software improvements, 2.2 also brings changes to the iPhone's telephone functionality. Apple claims that the update should bring a dramatic decrease in "call set-up failures", which are the times when you attempted to call someone and get a "Call Failed" message, which personally I've experience way more than I would like, so this is definitely a welcomed addition.
Time saving in app navigation has seen a small boost, as now the home button will return you to your first page of apps regardless of what page your on. It's a very minor addition, but again adds to overall iPhone efficiency. Perfect typists can also now choose to turn off the auto-correct function so that you can be in full control of your sentences.
Wrapping up 2.2 are some very small Easter eggs, including being asked to rate a app upon deletion, the ability to view multiple screen shots for apps in the App Store, and also the opportunity to view previews of screen shots in iPhoto, which originally appeared as just blank images until they were imported.
Haven't grabbed the 2.2 update yet? Just plug in your iPhone/Touch into your iTunes preferred computer and click the "Check for Updates" button, and enjoy the new features.
Source : www.ign.com
