CF Apple Computer

Although Apple, Inc. is going to finally allow developers to release approved applications for the iPhone and iPod touch , according to an unconfirmed report the rules for this will be very stringent. After many months of trying to prevent users from installing third-party applications on its smartphone and handheld, the Mac maker is relenting.

And although the details on how this is going to work won’t be revealed until March 6, iLounge claims it has been given a preview by several unnamed sources. If these sources are correct, then the rules are going to be in line with some of the most pessimistic predictions: Apple is going to insist on approving all applications before they can be released, and require that they be sold only through the iTunes Store. There are advantages and disadvantages to such a system.

It will mean that users will be able to completely trust that any application they purchase through iTunes will be high quality and won’t cause problems for their device. On the negative side, the need for Apple to Prue-test all software is likely to greatly cut down on the number of applications available.

Accessory Drivers In addition, Apple is supposedly going to prevent developers from writing software drivers that make use of the Dock Connector, which essentially closes the door on many third-party accessories, such as keyboards. What role Bluetooth might play in this in unknown. So far, Apple has reduced the functionality of this short-range networking standard to only headsets.