Apple introduced the upgraded version of mobile OS, iOS 4.3, while launching its iPad 2 at a conference in California.

Apple iOS software development chief Scott Forstall provided glimpses of the new OS which is slated for a release on 11 March this year.

The OS offers faster Safari performance. It also features the new iTunes home sharing which lets users stream files from their Mac or PC to an iPad.

The software has photo apps such as Photo Booth, and supports video-calling app Facetime. It also has a new version of iMovie that allows video editing on iPad 2. The OS is expected to provide enhanced AirPlay features as well.

The OS version also provides the choice to users to use the side switch to lock the screen rotation or mute the audio.

iOS 4.3 will be available for users of iPad,iPhone and iPod touch as a free software. Among the models compatible with the OS are iPad, iPad 2, iPhone 3G and iPhone 4 (GSM).