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iPhone Reports: GeoTagging, 3G On/Off Switch, Availability

Some more reports have surfaced about the 3G version of the iPhone. This round of tidbits tells us that the iPhone will include the ability to geotag photos (which means it will have GPS), users can toggle the 3G radio on and off, and we have some new information on exactly when the iPhone will be available.

Once again, I am offering a round up of some recent 3G and iPhone 2.0 news that has been circulating the blogosphere.

GPS: According to Engadget, screen shots of the iPhone 2.0 beta software shows a "location services" feature. The two different screen grabs seen show GPS ability paired with the iPhone's Google Maps application, as well as the ability to "set location" in the camera application. These features are widely available on many other phones with GPS, including the Nokia N95. But learning with somewhat more certainty that the next version of the iPhone will have GPS is encouraging. I particularly like to be able geotag photos when traveling.

3G Switch: Another screen shot (some think it was faked, others disagree) that has been found in the iPhone 2.0 beta offers users the ability to switch the 3G radio on and off. This is a vital feature. Why? Battery life. Having an active 3G connection drains cell phone batteries much faster than when they are in EDGE-only areas. For example, my N95 battery will last two days in EDGE coverage areas, but if I travel into a 3G region, the battery becomes drained in just one day. Since 3G has such an impact on battery life, this is a nice convenience feature to have and can help prevent people from being stranded with a dead phone.

Availability: Earlier this week, it was widely reported that the iPhone will be announced on June 9 and will be available "immediately". I have since learned from reliable sources that "immediately" means 9 days later. The iPhone will 100%, without-a-doubt be announced during Steve Jobs' WWDC keynote speech on June 9. The 3G iPhone 2.0 will be available for sale in stores on June 18.

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