iOS 4.3 – Detailed

Yesterday, alongside the introduction of iPad 2, Apple showcased iOS 4.3—the software behind its latest hardware innovation. Building off existing abilities of iOS, 4.3 perfects several established features and introduces just as many new ones. Though designed specifically around iPad 2, the update is compatible with many existing iOS devices as well. The full list of compatible devices is as follows:

• iPhone 3Gs
• iPhone 4 GSM Model (AT&T)
• iPod touch 3rd generation
• iPod touch 4th generation
• iPad
• iPad 2

Here is a detailed look at some of the refinements and new features of iOS 4.3:

AirPlay Enhancements

Apple’s revolutionary AirPlay technology gets even better in iOS 4.3. Previously allowing you to stream music, movies, and photos from your compatible device to Apple TV, AirPlay will now stream video from the Photos app. This feature was highly requested post launch of iOS 4.2 last year, and enables users to shoot home video and instantly share it via Apple TV. Additionally, Apple has allowed AirPlay-enabled apps and websites to stream to Apple TV.

Safari Performance Boost

Apple has implemented a new Nitro JavaScript engine into iOS 4.3. This nets users a speed boost up to two times faster than iOS 4.2. While pages will load faster in general, Apple claims sites with numerous interactive features—obviously no Flash—will appear significantly faster.

iTunes Home Sharing

With iOS 4.3, Apple has expanded iTunes Home Sharing to iOS devices. This means users will be able to stream the entirety of their iTunes libraries from their Mac or PC to their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. In addition to music, users can stream movies, TV shows, and podcasts directly to their device.

iPad Side Switch

Traditionally, Apple doesn’t make very many mistakes. However, when the company introduced iOS 4.2 for iPad last year, many users were upset that the update permanently altered functionality of the side switch on their iPads. Sensing a slight misstep, Apple has listened to user feedback and remedied the issue in iOS 4.3. iPad owners will now be able to choose whether they prefer the switch function as a mute switch, or a screen orientation lock through the Setting menu.

Personal Hotspot for iPhone 4

Though it was introduced alongside the launch of the Verizon iPhone 4 last month, iOS 4.3 introduces Personal Hotspot for iPhone 4 to all users of the device, and yes…AT&T has confirmed they are on board. For an additional $20 per month, iPhone 4 owners with AT&T’s higher tiered Data Pro plan will receive 2 additional gigabytes for Personal Hotspot usage. The handset’s 3G connection can be shared with up to five devices at once over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB. Though only three connections can take place via Wi-Fi, two additional devices can be added over Bluetooth and USB.

The release of iOS 4.3 will accompany the launch of iPad 2 next Friday March 11th. The update will be pre-installed on all versions of iPad 2, and available as a free download for users with older compatible devices. If you own one of the aforementioned devices, you can download the update on the 11th by connecting it to iTunes. As always we recommend you perform a full backup of your device prior to updating.