Apple Releases Slightly Mysterious System Software Update for the iPhone, iPod touch

Apple, Inc. has released a firmware update for the iPhone and iPod touch, and while this definitely takes care of a few bugs, it might also pave the way for one of the most significant changes yet to these devices.

Apple iPhone (see larger image)

The release notes for the 1.1.4 firmware are a model of vagueness, saying nothing more specific that this update includes "bug fixes".

Big Changes Behind the Scenes?

The timing of this release has caused rampant speculation that this firmware update lays the groundwork for Apple's upcoming system that will allow users to buy and install native third-party applications on its handheld and smartphone.

Last fall, Steve Jobs committed to releasing a Software Development Kit (SDK) will permit the creation of native programs for the iPhone and iPod touch.

"Let me just say it: We want native third party applications on the iPhone, and we plan to have an SDK in developers' hands in February," Steve Jobs wrote on Apple's web site.

February is almost over, and there's no SDK yet, but even if Apple misses its self-imposed deadline, it probably won't do so by very much. This has caused many people to think that the latest firmware update is somehow paving the way for third-party applications.

Getting the Updates

The easiest way to upgrade an iPhone or iPod touch is to connect the device to a Mac or PC running Apple's iTunes software.

Every firmware upgrade includes all previous changes to the system software.

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