WebOS 1.2 comes with improved calendar syncing, email, paid apps…
Palm has released WebOS 1.2, an updated version of its smartphone operating system. This update makes the Palm Pre more enterprise-friendly now.
In WebOS 1.2, the calendar has been significantly improved. It includes tweaks that make scheduling much more easier. Foe instance, if a calendar not includes phone number, all the user has to do it tap on it and it will be dialed. If it includes an address, directions can be obtained via Google Maps.
Mobile messaging has also been improved. Now the email application always enforces security policies when trying to connect to Microsoft Exchange accounts. Users with multiple Exchange accounts can use all the accounts at the same time. This makes it much more easier to receive corporate email. In addition, users will also be able to search through emails.
WebOS 1.2 also features improved in-car Bluetooth. Users can now transfer contacts to Lexus and Toyota car kits with ease. Users will be prompted if they want to connect the smartphone to a previously paired car kit. Additionally, users can now connect to a computer even if the device name is blank.
WebOS 1.2 doesn’t have iTunes compatibility, an indication that Palm has finally washed its hand clean off Apple’s iTunes. Earlier, Palm has spoofed its vendor ID to make iTunes think it was an iPod. Apple found this out and blocked Palm using software updates. Palm then made attempts to restore this functionality using over-the-air updates. Now, it seems that Palm has decided to leave iTunes out.
One of the major features of the latest release is the support for paid applications. Users can now enter their credit card information into their Palm profile and will be billed accordingly when they download software application in the App Catalog. Paid apps are expected to be available within the next few weeks.
The Palm Pre now matches Apple’s iPhone in terms of mobile multimedia. The latest updates enables users to download songs from Amazon.com.
Existing Pre users will receive a notification about the update over the next few days. They will then be able to download the firmware update.