iPhone updates include GPS feature

Apple announced an update to the iPhone's mapping service that will let you find where you are on a map. Similar to GPS (global positioning system) services, the feature does not use satellite data but triangulates your position relative to nearby Wi-Fi hotspots and mobile telephone masts. The feature will aid navigation as you will be able to pinpoint you current location and quickly get directions to wherever you want to go, provided that you are in a Wi-Fi hotspot or area where there is EDGE coverage. The mobile telephone masts and Wi-Fi hotspots have been mapped by Google, which provides the application to Apple. Other features added to the iPhone include the ability to send text messages to multiple recipients. You can also now move the icons on the start screen, create your own icons and actually have mulitple start screens, making navigation quicker. "iPhone doesn’t stand still—we’re making it better and better all the time," said Steve Jobs, Apple’s chief executive. "We’ve delighted millions of users with this revolutionary and magical product and it’s great to share these improvements with them." The updates for the iPhone are free - but iPod Touch users haven't been so fortunate, with software updates for the touchscreen iPod coming with a £13 charge. www.apple.com/iphone

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