iPhone OS 3.1 adds new features and functionality

One of the first surprises out of today's Apple event, other than Steve Jobs appearing on stage again (!!!), was the announcement that iPhone OS 3.1 and iPod touch OS 3.1.1 were available. We're still waiting for the download to complete, so this won't be a hands-on review, but we do want you to know what the new features of 3.1 are:

• Improved syncing for music, movies, TV shows, podcasts, and photos

• iTunes U content organization

• Redeem iTunes Gift Cards, codes, and certificates in the App Store

• Display available iTunes account credits in the App Store and iTunes Store

• Save video from Mail and MMS into Camera Roll

• Option to Save as new clip when trimming a video on iPhone 3GS

• Better iPhone 3G Wi-Fi performance when Bluetooth is turned on

• Remotely lock iPhone with passcode via MobileMe

• Use Voice COntrol on iPhone 3GS with Bluetooth headsets

• Paste phone numbers into the keypad

• Option to use Home button to turn on accessibility features on iPhone 3GS

• Warn when visiting fraudulent websites in Safari (anti-phishing)

• Improved Exchange calendar syncing and invitation handling

• Fixes issue that cause some app icons to display incorrectly

There's now also a App Store Genius function, which will recommend Apps based on your purchase history. The Genius of Apple also extends to iTunes, which will now create up to 12 playlists for you based on what's in your library. You can now purchase and download ringtones from your iPhone, and organize apps in iTunes.

Apple's security info page will be listing the security content of the OS updates shortly. The new versions include 10 security fixes, including patches for SMS vulnerabilities, Exchange passcode lock workarounds, and Unicode character spoofing flaws.

We'll have a hands-on review later!