Apple today released iPhone OS 3.1, adding Bluetooth Voice Control, and a new feature called Genius for Apps. Utilizing the Genius technology the company debuted in iTunes 8, iPhone OS 3.1 and iTunes 9 will be able to make recommendations based on the apps the user already owns through the Genius for Apps feature, which gets its own listing in the App Store. In addition, iPhone OS 3.1 adds the ability to buy and directly download pre-made ringtones. The new offering will launch with 30,000 ringtones from all four major labels, priced at $1.29 each. Finally, iPhone OS 3.1 adds the ability for iPhone 3GS users to access the Voice Control feature using a Bluetooth headset, the ability to redeem iTunes Gift cards, code, and certificates in the App Store, display iTunes account credits in the App and iTunes Stores, remotely lock an iPhone or iPod touch with a passcode via MobileMe, and a warning when visiting potentially fraudulent websites in Safari. The 3.1 update is free for all iPhone owners, while iPhone OS 3.1.1 is free for all iPod touch owners running OS 3.0, and both available now via the Update feature in iTunes.
Charles Starrett was a senior editor at iLounge. He's been covering the iPod, iPhone, and iPad since their inception. He has written numerous articles and reviews, and his work has been featured in multiple publications.