iTunes code points to Nike+, FM support for iPhone
updated 04:15 pm EDT, Wed June 3, 2009
iPhone FM tuner and Nike
The recent iTunes 8.2 update allegedly includes code strings that point to several iPhone features, including Nike+ Sport Kit and FM radio support, that may arrive with next-generation devices, according to AppleInsider. The radio capabilities would allow users to tag songs to be purchased from iTunes. The Nike+ support is also new to the iPhone, although the receiver has already been built into the second-generation iPod touch.
Although several rumors suggest the upcoming iPhone will offer an integrated FM tuner, the company also referenced expanded support for third-party accessories with the iPhone 3.0 software. The OS will be able to communicate directly with accessories, potentially adjusting the FM tuner on a separate transmitter or gathering Radio Data System (RDS) information.
The Nike+ Sport Kit support could indicate Apple is working toward allowing background processes, as the app would need to log data even through a phone call. The company may not be planning to extend the capabilities to the majority of developers, however.
The iTunes 8.2 code strings also include references to the new Voice Memos application that is expected with OS 3.0, along with provisions for using the free space on the internal memory as general storage. The iPhone could also support direct video downloads, instead of requiring the content to be synced from a computer.
It remains unknown if the unannounced capabilities will be offered in the upcoming iPhone and OS 3.0. The company is expected to launch a new device at the WWDC conference, although several analysts suggest a special event may be held later in the month to coincide with Steve Jobs' return.
Mac Enthusiast
Joined: Sep 2000
background proccesses
"The Nike Sport Kit support could indicate Apple is working toward allowing background processes, as the app would need to log data even through a phone call. The company may not be planning to extend the capabilities to the majority of developers, however."
Hmmm, poor analysis IMHO. One, Nike software is already on the iPod Touch which means it works on Mobile OS X as is. Two we all already know Apple has apps that run in the background. It's only third parties that are blocked.