Allow programs to be pushed to background while still running. Usable for applications like IM, Continous geouploading and more

I agree with the basis for not allowing ALL apps to be runable in background (look at Windoze mobile's horrid performance if you want a reason), but I do believe SOME apps HAVE to run in background (IM for one example) and the user should be able to choose that as a setting option.
A much needed feature please add in asap
TES
Would be a nice idea, especially for something such as GPS tracking and messaging. Even my old Sony gives you the option to leave an application running in the background!
For sure do this one!
Why offer a 21st century OS if you're back in the 80s with multi-tasking
This is no longer a phone, it is a computer.... it is obvious.
Yes please!
The operating system allowes programs to run in the background - so should the phone. It would be easy to have a setting to allow certain applications to run in the background or a magic key combination inside an app, like doubleclick the home button to push as a background service.