Apple introduces iPhoto, updates iMovie and Garageband, iWorks apps

Along with a new version of iOS, Apple on Wednesday introduced iPhoto for iOS – the first version of the popular photo cataloging and editing software designed to work on the iPhone and iPad.

Available for $4.99 from the App Store starting today, iPhoto for iOS lets you compare photos, flag shots, adjust color, exposure and contrast, and enhance images using effects. You can share the shots you’re happy with using services like Facebook, Flickr and Twitter. You can also send images to a nearby Apple TV using Airplay or use Apple’s iCloud service to publish photo journals online.

iMovie has been updated with a new Theater view that lets you preview your movie and choose from one of nine templates like Fair Tale, Superhero and Romance. The new Jam Session feature in GarageBand lets you invite friends (up to three) to connect wirelessly to your iPad so you can jam together. Jam Session synchronizes tempo, key and chords, automatically collecting everyone’s tracks together. Other new features of GarageBand include Smart Strings, a new touch instrument that lets you simulate the playing of a string orchestra, and a Note Editor. Both upgrades are free for existing users.

Apple has also updated the iWorks apps for iOS to version 1.6 – Pages, Keynote and Numbers. The new updates take advantage of the Retina display of the new iPad with new 3D charts, support for landscape orientation in Pages for iPhone and iPod touch, and new builds and transitions in Keynote including Iris, Shimmer, Wipe, Flame, Swing and Fade Through Color.