iPhone OS 3.0 ? Installation and Overview

Learn what?s new in the much-hyped new iPhone firmware update, and how to download it for yourself.

Apple’s new (and much-hyped) operating system update is already bundled inside the iPhone 3G S, but existing iPhone owners can now download iPhone OS 3.0 right from iTunes – though be patient, as Apple’s servers are currently experiencing traffic jams.

In case you’re unfamiliar with what’s new, more than 100 features have been added to iPhone OS 3.0, most notably: The ability to copy/cut and paste text between programs (the process is quite intuitive); landscape typing in email and notes (widening the "soft" keyboard, making it easier to type on); support for MMS (to send photos and videos to other cell phones); voice memos (which you can then email or sync to a PC); search capabilities that span across the entire iPhone (slide your finger left from the main menu to access); and the option to download TV shows and movies (rent or buy) on the iPhone itself.

We also tested the "Find My iPhone" feature through Apple’s MobileMe service, which not only lets you remotely wipe clean a lost or stolen iPhone to prevent someone accessing personal information and files, but also helps you locate the iPhone using mapping software on a PC. What’s more, you can send a message that will appear on the screen (e.g. "Call 212-555-1212 if found") or play an audible sound to help you locate one that’s gone missing in your home, even if your phone is set to silent.

To download the new iPhone OS 3.0, simply connect your iPhone to your PC or Mac, launch iTunes and click "Check for Update."