Apple's iOS 4.1 software update out now

Apple has released its iOS 4.1 software update, the latest operating system for its iPhone and iPod Touch ranges.

The operating system was previewed by Steve Jobs at an Apple event last week that also saw the firm refresh its iPod product line and join the social networking fray.

Now live on the iTunes store and across a range of Apple handheld devices, the iOS 4.1 update offers a range of bug fixes, as well as improvements to multi-tasking. However, in the case of this latter feature, only the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G are applicable.

Other new features include a gaming app, and the aforementioned social networking tool Ping, which lets users share music recommendations with others.

However, there could also be business benefits with the latest update. For example, firms that use digital media as a way to communicate with customers or staff can use the handset to record and upload HD videos or, for more static promotional activities, take high dynamic range photographs.

The operating system has also had a security update. Apple said in its support information that an issue with FaceTime had been resolved along with a range of other bug fixes, some of which would have allowed remote code execution.

Sophos security expert Graham Cluley said that the iOS 4.1 update was critical and urged Apple handheld users to update as soon as possible.

“Vulnerabilities which are reportedly patched by iOS 4.1 include flaws that could allow hackers to run malicious code on your device by sending you a maliciously-crafted GIF or TIFF image file, or visiting a boobytrapped web site. These are techniques which are frequently used by malware authors on other operating systems,” he noted in his blog.

Although Apple proudly announced the new features promised by the update, Cluley pointed out that the firm was less keen on discussing the security issues. “Inevitably these haven't been advertised or mentioned as extensively as the flashy new bells-and-whistles," he noted.