Apple has started approving apps for its forthcoming iOS 4.2 platform version, suggesting that the upgrade is on track to be released to consumers this month. First announced by Apple in September, version 4.2 is deemed significant as it will mean that all three of Apple’s iOS-based devices – the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch – can now run on the same version of the platform, simplifying things for developers working across all three products. According to a PC World report, developers are currently only able to submit app updates designed for the currently shipping versions of iOS – 4.1 for iPhone and iPod touch, but only 3.2 for iPad.

It is therefore iPad users that will see the most changes when upgrading to the new software. New features on an upgraded tablet will include multitasking capabilities (up to seven tasks), the ability to create and organise folders, and support for Apple’s AirPlay (multimedia sharing) and AirPrint (wireless printing) services.

However, from an apps point-of-view, the biggest development could be iPad’s support for Apple’s Game Center. The service – which is already available on Apple’s 4.1-compatible devices – is to be reconfigured to support gaming on the iPad’s larger screen. Softpedia reports that one such iPad Game Center app – the Big Bad Sudoku Book – is already available via Apple’s App Store and will be available to download to the tablet as soon as owners upgrade to 4.2.