iOS 4.2 to Release Today

Apple has announced the imminent release of iOS 4.2 for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch. The update, which has been long awaited by iPad users, brings owners of the device over 100 new features. While the update will be simultaneously released for iPhone and iPod touch, it will undoubtably have the biggest impact on the iPad. Multitasking, folders, unified inbox, Game Center, AirPlay, and AirPrint are only a few of the new features making their debut on the platform.

The extent of AirPrint functionality featured in the release is currently unknown. It has been rumored that Apple, at the last minute, may have removed some network/shared printer support. As AirPrint is one of the more revolutionary features of the release, expect a full write up once the software update becomes publicly available. Apple’s official description is as follows:

AirPrint—Print mail, photos, web pages, and more directly to a printer on a wireless network with an AirPrint-enabled printer.

The update also brings full AirPlay support to Apple’s family of iOS devices. Previously only available through iTunes, iOS 4.2 will allow users with compatible devices to wirelessly stream videos, music, and photos to the new Apple TV. AirPort Express owners will also be able to utilize the new feature to stream music from their iOS devices to a set of remote speakers. While we have yet to test the full gamut of AirPlay’s capabilities, the prospect of instantly–not to mention wirelessly–sharing photo and video content with an Apple TV from a mobile device is amazing.

The third all-new feature of iOS 4.2 is a free version of Find My iPhone/iPad/iPod touch. Previously a MobileMe exclusive, Apple has included the device tracking application for free within the update. Though this inclusion will certainly be appreciated by users should their devices go missing, there is a catch. At this time it appears the Find My “Device” functionality is limited to the iPhone 4, iPad, and 4th gen. iPod touch. iPhone 3G, 3GS, and 2nd/3rd gen. iPod touch owners will not be able to use this feature–or at least not in the same way as those with current generation hardware. Sure to elicit some controversy from users, the omission of this feature from older hardware seems like a clear message from Apple to upgrade.

Whether or not your device supports all of the new features of iOS 4.2, it is a promising upgrade and an especially momentous occasion for iPad users. The update will be available through iTunes later this afternoon. For more information on iOS 4.2 click here

UPDATE – 1:00 PM EST: iOS 4.2 is now available. Users can obtain the software update by connecting a compatible device to iTunes and following the prompts to update. If you do not receive an automatic prompt, simply select “Update” from the device’s main screen within iTunes.

Compatible Devices

• iPhone 3G
• iPhone 3GS
• iPhone 4

• iPod touch 2nd gen.
• iPod touch 3rd gen.
• iPod touch 4th gen.

• iPad