iPhone/iPod touch 3.1 Software Released

ByMike Moffit

On Wednesday, Apple released the new iPhone 3.1 software for the iPhone and iPod touch. This offers a number of updates along with a handful of new features. Notable new features include:

Genius Recommendations for Apps – Get recommendations for apps you might like based on apps you’ve already downloaded.

Genius Mixes – Have iTunes automatically create mixes based on what’s already in your library. You don’t even have to choose a sample song.

Download Ringtones Wirelessly – Choose from thousands of iPhone ringtones on the iTunes Store and buy them with a tap.

Organize Apps in iTunes – Use iTunes on your computer to drag apps onto virtual Home screens, then sync them to your iPhone.

Meanwhile, there is a substantial list of software enhancements:

  • Remotely lock iPhone with a passcode via MobileMe – this feature is very cool!
  • Improved syncing for music, movies, TV shows, podcasts, and photos
  • iTunes U content organization
  • Redeem iTunes Gift Cards, codes, and certificates in the App Store
  • Display available iTunes account credits in the App Store and iTunes Store
  • Save video from Mail and MMS into Camera Roll
  • Option to “Save as new clip” when trimming a video on iPhone 3GS
  • Better iPhone 3G Wi-Fi performance when Bluetooth is turned on
  • Use Voice Control on iPhone 3GS with Bluetooth headsets
  • Paste phone numbers into the keypad
  • Option to use Home button to turn on accessibility features on iPhone 3GS
  • Warn when visiting fraudulent websites in Safari (anti-phishing)
  • Improved Exchange calendar syncing and invitation handling
  • Fixes issue that cause some app icons to display incorrectly

You can read more and download the new software by connecting your iPhone to iTunes and browsing to the iTunes Store, and clicking “Check for Update” in the iPhone Summary pane. If you have an iPod touch, the 3.1 software will cost $4.95. Click here to download this.

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