Apple recently announced that some models of the iPhone with an update to the software OS 4 would now run multiple applications at the same time. This means that drivers need no longer worry about interruptions in the navigation program due to an incoming call. Apple together With Research In Motion planned to make smartphones more driver friendly. Steve Jobs, the chief executive of Apple made a demonstration in Cupertino, California where he also made a passing reference to iPod out, a feature for software developers.

The new feature apparently would make the functioning of devices like navigation system and car stereos all the more easier. They would show great compatibility with the iPhone. iPodOut by allowing an in-dash system to copy all the iPhone functions for music playback can give the driver the freedom to switch between songs on their smartphones by using the controls on the steering wheel. However, there was no confirmation of this rumor and according to an Apple spokesman users would have to wait until the summer to get any official information. He did not wish to get into the details of the features of the OS4.

Meanwhile, Research In Motion made it public that they had agreed to buy the Harman International’s QNX Software Systems. This has been considered as the most aggressive step taken by the handset maker for the acquisition of the dashboard. The anxiety among the car makers about this feature would be worth watching and though the demand is quite high among the iPhone users for such an in-dash system, it would be interesting to see if the automakers allow it in the fear of the Apple phones becoming obsolete in coming year or two.