Jobs unveils iPhone OS4

Apple unveiled next-generation software for its popular iPhone on April 8, which gives users the ability to run multiple programs at once and to quickly move between them.
"We weren't the first to this party but we're going to be the best," Apple chief executive Steve Jobs said of the multi-tasking feature in version 4.0 of the hot-selling smartphone's new operating system.
In addition to the much-called-for multi-tasking function, Jobs said iPhone OS 4.0 -- which will be available as a software update for iPhone and iPod Touch users this summer -- includes over 100 new features.
Among them is an iBooks reader that will allow users to download electronic books online and transfer them between their iPhones and iPads, the touchscreen tablet computer which went on sale in the United States last week.
A new iPhone Game Center includes a matchmaking feature that will hook users up with similarly skilled partners for multi-player games.
Other new features include the ability to create playlists on the phone, a 5X digital zoom for the camera and folders to organize and access applications.
Improved mail functionality lets users funnel incoming mail from multiple e-mail accounts into a single inbox.
The new operating system also features a spell check function and will allow users to buy applications and gift them directly through their iPhones.
Among seven "tent pole" innovations introduced by Jobs was iAd, a mobile advertising system that is built into the phone.
The iAd system will allow developers and ad agencies to build advertising directly into their applications, compete with the emotional impact of television ads and earn money beyond selling their applications, Jobs said.