Apple released a free updated version of its iPad operating system on Monday morning that will introduce a slew of new features, including some that are already on the iPhone and iPod Touch.
The update, called iOS 4.2, was expected before year-end after Steven P. Jobs, Apple's chief executive, announced the new features at an Apple product event earlier in the year.
For people who own the latest version of the iPhone and iPod Touch, some of the iPad updates will look familiar. The software gives the iPad the ability to create folders for applications on the device's home screen for categorizing applications. There are currently more than 40,000 apps available for the iPad.
Multitasking will also be introduced to the iPad, making it possible to run one app-like playing music-while running another program.
Another feature that is included in the new update is a product called AirPrint that offers the ability to print files wirelessly to a small number of printers that support this feature. Apple has said that initially Hewlett Packard will offer a series of AirPrint-capable printers, but other brands are expected next year.
AirPrint is intended to be very simple to use: once the device has been paired with a printer, users can simple press a on-screen print button and print photos, PDFs or e-mails, wirelessly without having to download and install confusing drivers.
It is unclear how many iPad owners will use the AirPrint feature as one of the benefits of tablets is the ability to read documents that would normally be printed on the go.
For Apple fans who own the latest Apple TV, the new iOS supports a feature called AirPlay which will enable a person to wirelessly stream content on the iPad to a television set.
The feature, can send high-quality photos, video or music to the Apple TV using a Wi-Fi connection.
Apple is also adding new features and document support to its suite of word processing products, which include Pages, Numbers and Keynote. All of the latest features and updates will be available for iPads through the iTunes store.
The iPad has been extremely successful since its launch earlier in the year. According to Apple's latest financial report, the company has sold over 7.5 million devices since it went on sale in April. Apple is expected to continue its high sales numbers during the holiday season as shoppers purchase iPads as gifts.