The new iPod models announced last week are now available at retail Apple Stores, while preorders are arriving on doorsteps across the country. And for current iPhone and iPod users, Apple has released iOS 4.1—now available via iTunes.

The update brings several new feature additions, including a high-dynamic range photo option for the iPhone 4, support for TV show rentals, the ability to send 720p video uploads to YouTube and MobileMe, support for AVRCP-compatible accessories, FaceTime calling directly from favorites, and support for FaceTime calls from front-camera-equipped iPod touches.

iOS 4.1 also brings the launch of Apple's centralized gaming social network, Game Center. With Game Center support, you can add friends, challenge them to head-to-head matches, get matched up with new players based on skill level, view high scores and achievements, and discover new games to play. Despite some concerns during the beta period, Game Center is supported on second-gen iPod touches and later, as well as the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4.

The update also includes a number of bug fixes, including a fix for iPhone 4 proximity sensor issues, Nike+iPod, and Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, it addresses widespread issues with slow performance of iOS 4 on the iPhone 3G, which recent limited testing by Lifehacker (using the iOS 4.1 GM release) demonstrated.

To update to iOS 4.1, you'll need to plug your 3G or later iPhone or second-gen or later iPod touch to a computer running iTunes, and click on "Check for Update." Apple's servers are apparently getting hammered, as some colleagues in the Orbiting HQ are getting an error message. 

Keep checking back for our look at the new iPods as well as an in-depth look at some of the new features of iOS 4.1.

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