iOS 4.3 Brings Back iPad Hardware Rotation Lock, Other Changes on the Way

It wasn’t that long ago that I was ranting about Apple converting the iPad’s hardware rotation lock slider switch into a Mute switch.

Looks like Apple heard the iPad user community crying foul, and people who have played with iOS 4.3 Beta 1 for the iPad are reporting that Apple has made it possible for users to chose, via a preference, what behavior the hardware slider switch will perform.

Multi-Touch Support, Hardware Changes

 In addition to getting our beloved hardware rotation lock switch back, Apple is also tossing in support for new multi-touch commands that will allow you to access things like the multi-tasking bar.

Rumors are also going around on the Internet because BRG.com is reporting that one of the reasons why multi-touch support is coming to iOS devices is because Apple is rumored to be taking away the Home button located at the bottom center of the each and every iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch released to date.

iOS 4.3 Device Compatibility

Oh, and about previously released iDevices: iOS 4.3 drops support for the iPhone 3G and second generation iPod touch, leaving them stranded at iOS 4.2.1.  The first generation iPhone, the iPhone 2G, and the first generation iPod touch max out their software upgrades at iOS 3.1.3.

[Via MacStories.net…]