Apple officially announced the iPhone 2.0 software, which is due to be released this June, but a beta release will become available immediately. The beta version will include besides Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync support and Cisco IPsec VPN for encrypted access to private corporate networks, the highly awaited iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK).

This could be seen as the beginning of a whole new iPhone era, as Apple opens up to developers, allowing them to create all sorts of applications for the smartphone. “We’re excited about creating a vibrant third party developer community with potentially thousands of native applications for iPhone and iPod touch,” said Steve Jobs, Apple CEO.

The iPhone SDK opens up to developers, by offering them the possibility to download the beta version for free and run the iPhone simulator on their Mac. The SDK will offer a series of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and tools, enabling third party developers to create new sets of applications for the iPhone.

“iPhone’s enterprise features combined with its revolutionary Multi-Touch user interface and advanced software architecture provide the best user experience and the most advanced software platform ever for a mobile device,” Jobs said.

Apple also introduced the iPhone Developer Program, which will give developers tools to create the native applications everyone has been waiting and asking for, as well as the App Store, offering wireless possibilities to developers of delivering applications to iPhone and iPod touch users.

At the same time, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers (KPCB) announced yesterday the launch of iFund, a $100 million investment in companies that develop services and applications for Apple’s iPhone and iPod touch.

“A revolutionary new platform is a rare and prized opportunity for entrepreneurs, and that’s exactly what Apple has created with iPhone and iPod touch,” said John Doerr, partner at KPCB. “We think several significant new companies will emerge as this new platform evolves, and the iFund will empower them to realize their full potential.”