As the official launch of the 3G iPhone is closing in, Apple has released a new beta version of its already famous iPhone SDK.

On its official site Apple noted that this eighth version of iPhone SDK is compatible with the final iPhone OS 2.0 and must be used to build and sign any iPhone OS application to be submitted to the App Store.

Besides the new SDK, Apple has released also a new version of iTunes, iTunes 7.7 and the Mac fan sites reported that in the Read Me file, Apple included a hit about a new, very cool application.

Apparently Apple will offer a new Remote application on AppStore as a free download. Thanks to this application, the new iPhone and the iPod Touch will function as a remote controller for the iTunes.

“Use iTunes 7.7 to sync music, video, and more with iPhone 3G, and download applications from the iTunes Store exclusively designed for iPhone and iPod touch with software version 2.0 or later. Also use the new Remote application for iPhone or iPod touch to control iTunes playback from anywhere in your home -- a free download from the App Store,” it reads the iTunes ReadMe. The both downloads are available on iPhone Developer Site.

If Apple started to accept applications based on this eighth beta, it seems like it is very similar to the final version.

The iPhone SDK was unveiled in March, when Apple also announced the AppStore, a new application that lets users browse, search, purchase and wirelessly download third party applications directly onto their iPhone or iPod Touch.

Practically, every developer can submit their applications to the AppStore; Apple would retain 30 percent of all sales revenues.

Users can download free applications at no charge to either the user or developer, or purchase priced applications with just one click.

Developers such as AOL, Electronic Arts, Epocrates, salesforce.com and Sega have already demonstrated applications using the SDK.