iPhone SDK Released

As we mentioned before, Apple decided to announce its iPhone software roadmap on Thursday. Now the beta version of the iPhone SDK has been released, it dramatically expands what business users and consumers can do with their iPhone and iPod Touch.

The SDK only work on Macs now. Developers will have to electronically sign their applications to participate in the program, and these applications will be available through the App Store.

Apple has licensed Microsoft’s ActiveSync protocol, which will allow the iPhone users to use corporate e-mails, contacts, and calendar information quickly and safely. Cisco’s IPSec VPN for secure connections and the 802.1x security standard for improved Wi-Fi security will be introduced in the upcoming software release.

Apple will now be able to pitch the iPhone against the BlackBerry, the leading smartphone in North America, by emphasizing the new business features.