Apple has released an eighth version of the iPhone SDK, inadvertently revealing plans to introduce remote control software for the iPhone and iPod touch in the process. In related news, China Mobile confirms talks between it and Apple are now focused on the detail, making it possible Apple could launch in China this year. “iPhone SDK Beta 8 is compatible with the final iPhone OS 2.0 release and must be used to build and sign any iPhone OS application to be submitted to the App Store. As a reminder, you must be a member of the iPhone Developer Program to submit apps,” Apple explains in release notes around the software. The eighth beta version of the iPhone SDK includes Xcode IDE, iPhone Simulator with Open GL ES support, Interface Builder, Instruments, frameworks and samples, compilers, and Shark analysis tool. The software also requires use of the pre-release iTunes 7,7. iTunes 7.7 will be the version of iTunes required to underpin iPhone Software 2.0 – and Apple plans to make the media library remote controllable by any iPhone or iPod touch user. “Use iTunes 7.7 to sync music, video, and more with iPhone 3G, and download applications from the iTunes Store exclusively designed for iPhone and iPod touch with software version 2.0 or later. Also use the new Remote application for iPhone or iPod touch to control iTunes playback from anywhere in your home — a free download from the App Store,” Apple explains. Finally, Apple seems set to introduce the iPhone in China, where China Mobile spokeswoman Rainie Lei said: “Apple is no longer insisting on a revenue-sharing policy, so the biggest hurdle for China Mobile to bring in the iPhone has been cleared, but there are practical issues still to be resolved.”
