ReadWriteWeb: Since its launch in early April, the iPad has only received minor bugfix updates while the iPhone and iPad touch got a major update with iOS 4 in June. Apple promised to bring the iPad up to par with its smaller brethren in November and all signs point towards the release of iOS 4.2 for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch this week. For the iPad, this update introduces a number of major new features, including multitasking, folders and a unified inbox for your email, as well as support for wireless printing and AirPlay.
9to5 MAC - Among the many changes in iOS 4.2 for iPad, Apple has apparently reduced the amount of power that the iPad’s 30-pin connector can emit from 100mA to 20mA. The good part about this is that your iPad’s battery will probably last longer but the downside is that Apple’s iPad Camera Connection Kit is crippled for many people.
Now that iOS 4.2 is finally available to iPad users, what new features does it bring to the table? Some of them are more than welcome like folders, Find My iPad and the Mail app’s revamp. A few of the other features, including the much lauded multitasking as well as AirPrint leave a little to be desired.
If you’re a regular jailbreaker, you’ll be happy to know that iOS 4.2.1 is jailbroken already and that you can download the IPSW and roll your own install immediately. RedmondPie has a great how-to but it’s pretty simple.