Apple Releases iPhone Software 2.1

As promised, Apple releases iPhone Software 2.1 today. The update is available through iTunes 8.

iPhone OS 2.1 for iPod touch and iPhone is available through iTunes (installation of iTunes 8 is required).

iPhone Software 2.1 for iPhone – iPhone1,1_2.1_5F136_Restore.ipsw 231MB
iPhone Software 2.1 for iPhone 3G – iPhone1,2_2.1_5F136_Restore.ipsw 237.8MB
iPhone Software 2.1 for iPod touch – iPod1,1_2.1_5F137_Restore.ipsw 239.5MB

Before you upgrade to iPhone Software 2.1, you might want to do the followings:

  • Import all the pictures from the iPhone.
  • Import all the purchased songs, movies, and apps if necessary.
  • Sync your iPhone with your computer using iTunes 8.
  • Let iTunes perform complete back-up of your phone.

If your iPhone is having trouble doing any of the above, it might indicate problems with your current iPhone. Please proceed with caution.

Security Updates included in iPhone Software 2.1 release notes can be found here.

Apple to Release a Torrent of Software Updates

Based on some unconfirmed chatters, Apple is planning to release numbers of software updates in the next few weeks.

  • Mac OS X 10.5.5
    The update to Leopard is getting closer for release. According to sources, Mac OS X 10.5.5 will be released around the time new hardware refresh is announced. How about the Quad-Core Macbook Pro, Apple?
  • iLife ’08
    Maintenance update to the iLife suite is expected to be released in the coming weeks. According to sources, we might see new version of the iLife suite as early as January 2009 or as late as Summer 2009.
  • iWork ’08
    Maintenance update to iWork suite is expected to be released in the coming weeks also. Apple is definitely working on new version of iWork suite. Based on the available informations, the new iWork suite will heavily utilize Mac OS X Core Animation.
  • Apple TV
    Maintenance update to Apple TV will bring compatibilities with iTunes 8 including “Genius” feature.

Remember, that these are unconfirmed informations.

As a reminder, Apple has scheduled iPhone Software 2.1  release date on Friday September 12th, 2008.

QuickTime 7.5.5 and Front Row 2.1.6

Hot off the heels of “Let’s Rock” event and following the release of iTunes 8, Apple releases QuickTime 7.5.5 and Front Row 2.1.6 today.

QuickTime 7.5.5 is available for Mac OS X and Windows XP/Vista.

QuickTime 7.5.5 includes changes that increase reliability, improve application compatibility and enhance security.

This release is recommended for all QuickTime 7 users.

For detailed information on the security content of this update, please visit this website: http://www.info.apple.com/kbnum/n61798.

Front Row 2.1.6 update provides improved iTunes 8.0 compatibility and bug fixes.

Both updates are currently available through Apple Software Updates. Direct link will be posted when made available.

iTunes 8 is Now Available for Download

As promised, iTunes 8 is available for download. Apple has also updated iTunes Terms of Service dated September 04th, 2008.

What’s new in iTunes 8

iTunes 8 includes Genius, which makes playlists from songs in your library that go great together. Genius also includes Genius sidebar, which recommends music from the iTunes Store that you don’t already have.

With iTunes 8, browse your artists and albums visually with the new Grid view; download your favorite TV shows in HD quality from the iTunes Store; sync your media with iPod nano (4th generation), iPod classic (120GB), and iPod touch (2nd generation); and enjoy a stunning new music visualizer.

iTunes 8 and iTunes U are now accessible with VoiceOver on your Mac.

More info to follow.

Links for Apple “Let’s Rock” Live Coverage

UPDATE too:

Watch “Let’s Rock” Keynote stream, QuickTime 7 is required.

“Let’s Rock” Keynote is now available in “Apple Keynote” Podcast. (U.S.A. iTunes Store)

If you already subscribed to the podcast, refresh it and it will start downloading the Keynote.

UPDATE:
Link for the video stream and iTunes will be posted as they become available.

Apple “Let’s Rock” on September 9th, 2008 starts at 10:00AM Pacific Time.

The followings provide live coverage of Apple “Let’s Rock” special event:

More will be added when available.