iOS 5.1 increases OTA download limit; Apple adds free trials for subscriptions

The iPad took center stage during Apple's event today, but it's not the only improvement Apple rolled out on Wednesday. For those who haven't launched Software Update yet, here are some highlights from the new Apple offerings:

• The iOS 5.1 update, which we discussed earlier today, includes two additional features we didn't see listed in Apple's release notes. After installing, iOS will allow downloads from the iTunes Store (including apps and music) up to 50MB over 3G/4G networks. That limit is up from the previous 20MB cap, ostensibly to allow more apps with Retina graphics or perhaps 1080p video to download over-the-air.

  Some AT&T users who upgrade to iOS 5.1 will find an added "bonus" as well. Users connected to AT&T's HSPA+ network on an iPhone 4S will see a "4G" icon appear in the upper left hand corner. This allows AT&T to further differentiate itself from competitors Verizon and Sprint, though true "4G" really only applies to LTE devices.

• As mentioned in our coverage from earlier today, the iTunes 10.6 update adds the ability to play 1080p HD movies and TV shows from the iTunes Store. This release includes multiple improvements for iTunes Match, including improved song matching and album artwork downloading and display. The update also addresses an issue where songs may skip when playing via iCloud.

• When trying to update to iBooks Author 1.1 (which makes Retina display compatible iBooks, by the way) users will be asked to approve a new iTunes Terms of Service agreement. Within this agreement lies a bit of apparent news:

  "Certain paid In App Subscriptions may offer a free trial period prior to
  charging your Account. If you decide you do not want to purchase the In
  App Subscription, turn off auto-renewal in your Account settings during
  the free trial period."

  It seems that Apple will now allow publishers to offer free trial subscriptions on iOS via in app purchase.

• Finally, iPhoto and GarageBand updates for Mac OS X add compatibility with the iOS versions announced today. iPhoto 9.2.2 allows photos to be deleted from Photo Stream. And, GarageBand 6.0.5 adds updated compatibility with iOS-generated projects. The update also fixes a playback issue with the GarageBand Lesson preview videos and corrects issues with some software instruments triggering incorrectly or becoming stuck notes.