Today Apple have released the first beta version of iOS 4.3 for the iOS Developers program. iOS 4.3 update will be available for the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod Touch 4th generation, iPod Touch 3rd generation and iPad.

Developers who have so far installed the beta version are reporting new features in iOS 4.3 including the mobile hotspot feature (just like tethering) that was one of the major features of the Verizon iPhone that was announced yesterday. Though considering worldwide, this feature may be disabled depending on your network / carrier. So we'll have to wait and see if carriers like AT&T will support the feature.

Its also being revealed that iOS 4.3 beta allows users to stream videos from apps to compatible devices via AirPlay. iOS 4.3 will give iPad users back the option to use the side switch as a mute switch or screen rotation lock.

It looks like iOS 4.3 has some cool new gestures built specifically for the iPad. 4 & 5 finger gestures; pinch to the home screen, swipe up to reveal multitasking tray, swipe left/right to switch apps.�Apple seems to have also changed the FaceTime icon as well.

Unfortunately, iOS 4.3 is not available for iPhone 3G and iPod Touch 2nd generation, which indicates that iOS 4.2.1 was the last iOS software update for these devices.

We will keep everyone posted of any further news regarding the new iOS 4.3.

[via GG, MobileCrunch]