3G iPhone getting closer to reality

Arguably the most requested feature for the next version of the iPhone is 3G, or third-generation, networking. 3G promises large speed increases for both uploading and downloading, giving mobile users quick network access even when not on a Wi-Fi hot spot.

When Steve Jobs announced the iPhone in January, he cited power consumption, cost, and the lack of widespread availability of 3G networks in the US. Some suggested that Europe would be more likely to see a 3G version of the phone, since the technology is more prevalent there, but that didn’t materialize either.

According to our buddy Glenn Fleishman over at TidBITS, some of those obstacles may be overcome by a new 3G chip produced by Broadcom, which is among the most power-efficient of its ilk to date. Even if this particular chip is not the one that Apple is looking for, it’s very appearance suggests that within months, this technology will be easily available.

No one really doubts that Apple will make a 3G version of the iPhone at some point. It’s merely a question of when. And, inevitably, that answer is going to get closer and closer to “soon” as time goes on.

Category: Hardware

Posted by Dan Moren on Oct 15 2007, 12:53 PM ET

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