Current firmware let you fast forward through audio files w/ virtual button

I know it didn't allow you to fast forward/rewind using the virtual buttons with earlier firmware. I do that all the time on my 5.5G iPod to skip through commercials.

I think with earlier firmware that functionality worked on video, but for some reason NOT audio.

Also, if the Touch turns off, or you switch programs or something, does it "remember" what you were playing last when you go back to the audio player program? Or would I get stuck drilling through menus every single time I do something else or it switches off?