iOS 4.3 officially announced

iOS 4.3 has been made official as of today. At the iPad 2 media event, Apple introduced the latest version of the operating system that will be available for download when the iPad 2 is released. Here is a quick rundown of what’s coming in iOS 4.3:

Improvements to the Safari web browser – JavaScript performance has been improved with the Nitro JavaScript Engine.

iTunes home sharing – you can now access all your content available on your desktop through WiFi. Stream your entire iTunes library without the need to transfer media to your device.

Improvements to AirPlay – easier to use, slideshow options for sharing photos and apps and websites can even make use of the AirPlay function.

Preference for iPad switch – you can now choose to use the switch on your iPad to mute the device or use it to lock its orientation.

Personal hotspot (for the iPhone 4 only) – turn your iPhone 4 into a mobile hotspot that you can use to share your internet connection with people around you.

FaceTime – of course we all knew this was coming to the iPad 2 – video call over WiFi with other iPad 2, iPhone 4 and Mac users.

iOS 4.3 will be released on March 11 2011, for all the current iOS devices – 3rd and 4th generation iPod Touch, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, and the iPad.