OpenClip Is No More

Remember OpenClip? It was supposed to be an open framework for implementing copy and paste functionality to the iPhone. If Apple wanted to implement copy and paste they would have done so already or they will do it soon, OpenClip was a notable effort to work around the limitation or the forgetfulness of Apple.

OpenClip used a loophole that made it possible for apps to peek into each others home folders, thereby creating a temporary area for copy and paste data. The only problem is that the 2.1 firmware will no longer allow apps to do that.

Apps that use OpenClip will no longer be able to copy and paste between applications. However, applications can still utilize a persistent way to store data inside the application, meaning that copy and paste within the app will still work fine. And on top of that, apps that utilize only one form (either copy or paste) can disable interface elements when Apple axes OpenClip.

Goodbye great idea, we barely knew thee. I hope that Apple finally opens their eyes to the need for some sort of copy and paste on the iPhone/touch.

Frank's the editor in chief of tech.nocr.at. He can be found surfing the internet and playing with gadgets. Follow him on twitter @franklinhares