A new rumor claims Apple plans to release the next major update for the iPhone and iPad, iOS 4.3, on Monday, Feb. 14.

MacStories.net reported on Friday that Apple plans to release iOS 4.3, bringing AirPlay functionality to third-party applications and the new Personal Hotspot Wi-Fi tethering feature, in 10 days. Apple usually releases its iOS updates around 10 a.m. Pacific, 1 p.m. Eastern.

In the past, the website correctly predicted that Mac OS X 10.7 Lion would adopt various features and user interface elements from iOS, which powers the iPad and iPhone. But last November, the site also incorrectly reported that Apple would release iOS 4.3 in December with recurring application subscriptions.

Apple has seeded the first beta version of iOS 4.3 to developers. The iOS 4.3 beta is available in versions for iPad, iPhone 4 and 3GS, and third- and fourth-generation iPod touch, as well as a separate download for the new Apple TV.

the new version now allows developers to stream video to compatible devices via AirPlay. In addtion, Configuration settings for personal hotspot functionality are indeed present in the iOS 4.3 beta, allowing up to five Wi-Fi devices to share the iPhone’s cellular data connection.

One of the most interesting new features found in the developer release of iOS 4.3 is the introduction of four and five finger gestures for the iPad.

This beta release contains a preview of new Multi-Touch gestures for iPad. You can use four or five fingers to pinch to the Home Screen; swipe up to reveal the multitasking bar; and swipe left or right between apps. We are providing this preview before releasing them to the public to understand how these gestures work with your apps.