The iPhone 3G has landed

The technology industry has once again been swamped by hype this week as the world awaited the launch of the next-generation iPhone.

The iPhone 3G will, as the name suggests, support 3G networks, meaning that using the device to surf the web when you're not within reach of a Wi-Fi hotspot should be much faster.

The original iPhones support EDGE networks, which are slower than 3G networks, and Apple claims that iPhone 3G will be twice as fast for surfing on the move.

Originally, Apple resisted putting a 3G chipset into the iPhone as it said it would be too power-hungry, and would drain the battery too quickly(iPhone batteries can't be removed). It should be interesting to see how successfully Apple has overcome this problem.

Though the new model is called the iPhone 3G, it isn't simply just a case of 3G capabilities being added – there are other changes as well.

The iPhone 3G will also have satnav capabilities – a GPS (global positioning system) chip has been included so you can now get very accurate information about where you are.

The original iPhone has a similar facility, introduced in a firmware update, though this used data from nearby mobile masts to give you an approximate location. With the GPS chip, you'll know to within a couple of metres exactly where you are.

The iPhone 3G also looks different to the original – the brushed silver back has been replaced by black casing.

There is also better support for third-party applications, with the new iTunes App Store offering some 500 add-ons for the iPhone. There is also support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, which should appeal to business users.

Network operator O2 has contingency plans for the expected high levels of demand.

"We'll be working with Apple to continually replenish our supplies throughout the summer," Ronan Dunne, O2's UK chief executive said.

However, the week didn't start well for O2 when the number of people trying to get on its website to pre-order the phone on Monday crashed the online store.

All the iPhone 3Gs had been pre-ordered within seven hours, according to O2, so if you weren't on the ball on Monday then don't expect to get your hands on one before August.

www.o2.co.uk
www.apple.com/uk/iphone