Apple iOS 4.3 beta released

The beta test of the latest iteration of Apple's mobile operating system has been released to developers, with many of the tested features revealing Apple's future plans for the iPhone and the iPad.

Among the most exciting news was the inclusion of a Personal Hotspot feature, which allows iPhone owners to use their handset as a personal Wi-Fi hub for other users. This has only before been possible through jail-breaking and “cracking” Apple's software, something that not all users have been willing or able to do.

There are, however, concerns over the cost of the feature (which is mooted to cost £15 a month on top of one's regular contract), and also the future availability of the feature in the UK. Apple had no comments on the speculation.

Also featured are advanced effects for the forward-facing video camera on the iPhone 4, which allows users to create filters in the style of X-rays, thermal imaging, and many others. The update will also include third-party support for the recently released Airplay feature, meaning that those with wireless speakers or monitors can stream their non-Apple content remotely.

Another exciting feature, recently demonstrated on YouTube, is the multi-touch gesture – a more intuitive touch-screen control that allows users to use four or five fingers to pinch-zoom and turn pages, and generally provides a much more natural way of using Apple's technology.

With the beta live for developers, the 4.3 update should be available soon, with several commentators predicting March as the release date.