Is it possible for Apple to add 3G support with a software update?

gt1948

gt1948

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Jan 30, 2007
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Not being a techi....would 3G be a hardware upgrade or a software?

Maybe it's already built in and just a software upgrade is all thats needed? Similar to the new Airport Extreme "n"

If so then the new AT&T video that was announced yesterday would be possible....:p:p
 
JnC

JnC

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Hardware. And it would require a recertification with the FCC.
 
JnC

JnC

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ebrunn said:
Not on this version
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In regards to the iPhone, yes it would. 3G has a completely different radio, different antenna, and different frequencies than EDGE.

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Hmmm. At least it does for everyone else. Cingular/ATT's deployment is over existing 1900/850 bands. So nix my comment about different frequencies.

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear likely that you can use a Cingular/ATT 3G data service elsewhere in the world :( Unless they also introduce a quad band antenna for the data side.

UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA (3G) frequency bands deployment

2100 (downlink) / 1900 (uplink) for Europe and Asia (usually referred simply as W-CDMA 2100)
1900 / 850 (independently, for both the uplink and downlink) for America (e.g. Cingular Wireless)
2100 (downlink) / 1700 (uplink) for America (e.g. T-Mobile)
800 for Japan, Australia
 
JnC

JnC

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ColsTiger said:
ebrunn was just saying that you wouldn't ever get 3G on this version.
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Gotcha. Sorry ebrunn. I'm treacherous and cranky.

The strange thing is... Cingular's spectrum. At least from the frequency and antenna aspects, they might be able to share that between EDGE and 3G. Most of the engineering might be in place. Still officially requires a blessing from the FCC, but... the transition might be very simple.

I'm gonna flip-flop on this one. Now I think it may be like what gt1498 proposed. 3G may already be in the chipset. It's conceivable Apple only had it certified for EDGE. When the time comes, they apply for a new certification for the 3G side.... and no mad dash of angry iPhone customers eager to dump their old phones to buy new. I'm not saying that scenario is likely, but possible. And as gt1498 pointed out, Apple has played their cards close to the vest with hidden upgrades before. We'll have to wait and see as the 3G network matures.
 
S

Shere Khaan

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Jun 26, 2007
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Being an Aussie I have a very long time to wait for this phone (sucks to be us).

I have a question though on 3G, is 3G in the US considered the 2100Mhz band? If this is the case what does Edge run at? I'm trying to work out what provider is going to be best suited for Apple for when they do come to Australia.

Thanks
 
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