At a preview event this morning, Apple detailed the iPhone 3.0 software update, coming Summer, 2009. A beta version for developers is available today, and iPhone subscribers will be able to get it free, likely in June. iPod touch upgrades will cost of $9.95.

The two-hour presentation was packed full of features for developers and consumers. Highlights included the long-missing cut-copy-paste tool, Bluetooth audio support, and a search function that burrows through Apple's main apps, including Mail.

Developers, developers, developers
The presentation covered many details for developers, with Apple stating that coders would have access to 1,000 new APIs (application programming interfaces). Think of these as Lego blocks that contain their own functionality; developers can more easily assemble these tools into complete apps instead of writing everything from scratch. The result will be great, new software that was previously impossible.

Apple explained the functionality behind a handful of these new modules. A peer-to-peer API lets two Bluetooth devices automatically discover each other and share content, such as in a networked game. (Forget having to join the same Wi-Fi network first, as is the current, typical technique.) Developers can now access mapping tools in their own software, including the framework to provide turn-by-turn directions. Streaming audio and video tools automatically scale content quality depending on your bandwidth. A voice-chat API instantly adds audio communications to software, especially great for games. Developers can also access the iTunes library stored on the device, using that music or data in software.

The APIs also enable hardware access, with Apple opening up even more options.  A proximity sensor API, for example, lets software directly use the ear sensor. And hardware developers will be able to communicate with their own iPhone software directly through the dock or Bluetooth. This connection could result in nearly anything attaching to an iPhone; LifeScan demonstrated a glucose monitor that interacts with iPhone software.

Bluetooth gets another update, finally supporting stereo headsets (A2DP). However, Apple wouldn't explain if a bluetooth keyboard or other device will be able to connect.

The customer is always right
Apple also showcased many of the customer features. Copy-and-paste works by holding a finger on a word and dragging the highlighted area. Mail, Notes, and SMS messages add a landscape mode for a bigger keyboard. Notes can sync to your Mac through iTunes. MMS picture messages finally work--with the 3G iPhone only. Calendar features also improve, adding CalDAV and .ics subscriptions. Shake-to-shuffle from the iPod nano moves to the iPhone and touch.

Apple is finally readying the push notifications rollout promised last year. As previously announced, if a program isn't running, the developer can send Apple a notification that gets pushed to your device. For example, if you've subscribed to an ESPN alert, you'll automatically be notified of an important score with a message, sound effect, or hovering number on the ESPN app.

The iPhone hardware and software will continue to support tethering on a technical level. This method bridges the mobile 3G or Edge Internet connection to a laptop, enabling online access through the phone carrier. While Apple is working with carriers to offer this service, no specific release plans were outlined.

Everything comes with a price
In addition to the customer and developer features, Apple will be introducing new payment options for apps. Developers will continue to keep 70% of the sales money, but they'll be able to sell items on a recurring basis, like a magazine subscription. Developers will also be able to sell optional, add-on content--like new levels for a game or individual e-reader books--after the initial purchase. Those transactions will only apply to paid apps; a free app won't later be able to add charges later.

We're excited for the new iPhone features as much as new App Store software. Now we just need an app that counts the days until release.