Apple could follow Microsoft in allowing tablet users to run two applications side-by-side in the next version of its OS
Apple is reportedly planning to include split-screen multitasking in its forthcoming iOS 8 operating system, as well as high-definition audio playback.
The split-screen multitasking rumour comes from Apple blog 9to5Mac,
which cites 'sources with knowledge of the enhancement in development'.
This would allow iPad users to run and interact with two iPad applications
side-by-side, much as Microsoft's
Surface line of tablets allows users to “snap” applications next to each
other on the screen.
It could also allow apps to interact more easily, according to the sources.
For example, a user may be able to drag content, such as text, video, or
images, from one app to another.
Split-screen multitasking is particularly popular feature among business
users, who often need to handle multiple tasks at the same time. The feature
has been requested by iPad fans for several years.
Meanwhile, a report by Japanese blog Mac
Otakara suggests that Apple will enable high-quality audio files
to be played on iOS 8 devices.
Currently, iOS 7's stock Music app cannot play high quality 24-bit audio files that contain a sampling frequency beyond 48 kHz, and even third-party apps that are capable of playing such files are limited to onboard playback at a 16-bit rate.
Apple is also said to be preparing an upgraded Lightning cable to accommodate high-definition playback on Made For iPhone (MFi) audio accessories, and a new version of its in-ear headphones to accommodate high-quality audio playback.
The company's rumoured interest in HD audio is particularly interesting given the speculation that Apple plans to acquire headphone-maker Beats Electronics for $3.2bn (£1.9bn).
Beats controls 27 per cent of the $1.8 billion headphone market and 57 per cent of the market for “premium” versions, despite its products selling for hundreds of pounds each.
It also runs a paid-for subscription service similar called Beats Music. Acquiring Beats Music would give Apple, which runs the iTunes Radio service, extra firepower in its fight with rivals Spotify and Pandora.
Yesterday it was reported that Beats co-founders Jimmy Iovine and Dr Dre could take executive roles at Apple, following the acquisition.
It is thought that this, together with details about the forthcoming iOS 8 and OS X 10.10 operating systems, will be announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers' Conference on June 2.
Currently, iOS 7's stock Music app cannot play high quality 24-bit audio files that contain a sampling frequency beyond 48 kHz, and even third-party apps that are capable of playing such files are limited to onboard playback at a 16-bit rate.
Apple is also said to be preparing an upgraded Lightning cable to accommodate high-definition playback on Made For iPhone (MFi) audio accessories, and a new version of its in-ear headphones to accommodate high-quality audio playback.
The company's rumoured interest in HD audio is particularly interesting given the speculation that Apple plans to acquire headphone-maker Beats Electronics for $3.2bn (£1.9bn).
Beats controls 27 per cent of the $1.8 billion headphone market and 57 per cent of the market for “premium” versions, despite its products selling for hundreds of pounds each.
It also runs a paid-for subscription service similar called Beats Music. Acquiring Beats Music would give Apple, which runs the iTunes Radio service, extra firepower in its fight with rivals Spotify and Pandora.
Yesterday it was reported that Beats co-founders Jimmy Iovine and Dr Dre could take executive roles at Apple, following the acquisition.
It is thought that this, together with details about the forthcoming iOS 8 and OS X 10.10 operating systems, will be announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers' Conference on June 2.
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