Alongside the third generation iPad and a new Apple TV, Apple showcased a number of apps that took advantage of the improved hardware of the new iPad. One of them was iPhoto for iOS, which brings advanced photo editing capabilities to the iPad, using touch based gestures.

Some noteworthy features:

• You can double tap an image, and iPhoto selects similar images in your library, which you can then compare side by side.
• Multi-touch editing: You can manipulate image properties using your fingers, by dragging up, down, left or right. The app detects blue skies, greenery and skin tones, which can then be modified easily. It also has the ability to “straighten” an image using automatic horizon detection.

• Brushes: Using brushes, you can use your fingers to paint adjustments to an image. To increase precision with which you apply adjustments, you can use the edge detection tool. Apple says, “It works wonders on wrinkles.”
• A photo can be “beamed” between two devices, over the air, to collaborate and share your creations instantly. And, of course, you can use AirPlay to show off your creations on a big screen via an Apple TV.
• Photo Journals: This is a feature where iPhoto automatically arranges your images in a “great-looking” layout, that you can later customize by rearranging, adding captions, maps, dates etc. using touch and drag gestures.
• You could upload your photos to Facebook (yes, Facebook!), iCloud, Twitter, Flickr, email and other similar services.
• Using AirPrint, you can also wirelessly print your images.

The app (iTunes link) is available for $4.99 as a universal binary on the App Store. It weighs in at 106MB and is compatiable with the iPhone 4, iPhone 4S and the iPad 2. It requires iOS 5.1, which means that if you want to install the app, you’ll first have to upgrade your device to the latest firmware.

Have you tried out the iPhoto app?

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