Expanding the Library

Expanding the Library

By Douglas MacMillan and Joel Schectman

Even before the introduction of the new iPhone software, users of Apple's (AAPL) smart phone had access to a library of more than 50,000 applications.

Now they've got even more choices. On June 17, Apple released a software upgrade for the devices that includes such capabilities as " in-app purchases") and "push" technology that delivers content from the Web without requiring the user to visit a site or open an application. Developers can also make use of "new navigation tools" and features that let iPhones sense each other via "Bluetooth".

While most developers are just beginning to tinker with these possibilities, a new crop of apps that take advantage of the features is already available. In this BusinessWeek slide show, we introduce you to 17 exciting new apps for iPhone 3.0 – and 3 you can expect to see soon.