So I upgraded to the new 2.0.1 firmware in the hope that it would fix the random crashes, particularly of Safari (which is the bug that hits me the most). I must say that the new firmware, if anything, is a backward step. The phone now rarely loads a new page when I hit a link (just gives me a random "server stopped responding" message, or crashes out to the springboard).

More worryingly, Apple have obviously tried to tweak the radio software (not the baseband) such that the 3G signal is now being reported as somewhat higher than before. In real terms this is a disaster- where previously the phone would "choose" non-3G because of a weak 3G signal, it now tries desparately to lock onto 3G signals which simply are not good enough to make calls or recieve data. The result for me is that I often see 1 bar of 3G signal (where previously in the same area the phone would switch to non-3G), but I can't actually receive any data, and calls regularly drop (I am not finding the during-call 3G to non-3G switchover to be exactly reliable in keeping the call going).

So, I am thoroughly annoyed with this firmware, and not impressed by Apple's attempt to make it "appear" that the 3G radio is more sensitive than it really is in order to be useable.

Ho hum, fingers crossed for next firmware etc etc as usual. Anyone else experiencing these problems- particularly with calls and data on 3G?

If your 3G signal is that bad, maybe you should just shut it off.

I agree that it now locks on to weak 3g signals. Now people I call when I have a 1 bar 3g signal seem to break up. But on the other hand they have improved the speed that it switches from 3g to edge and the hand off between 3g towers does not drop the call on my ride home from work. So this did fix some things, but still needs a little work. Maybe in the 2.1 it will resolve the weak signal locking?

Originally Posted by DrFun

I agree that it now locks on to weak 3g signals. Now people I call when I have a 1 bar 3g signal seem to break up. But on the other hand they have improved the speed that it switches from 3g to edge and the hand off between 3g towers does not drop the call on my ride home from work. So this did fix some things, but still needs a little work. Maybe in the 2.1 it will resolve the weak signal locking?

Let's hope so- seems like you've had more luck with me on the hand off. It is a bit of shame that Apple didn't have this wrapped on release, as other manufacturers have managed it for a few years now, with generally better reception to boot.

Wonder what the timelines are for 2.1?

@Van Wildonher: Switching off the 3G is not an option for me... (a) it renders the phone kind of pointless over the 2G version (which I also have), (b) 3G signals, when they're there provide better voice quality for me and (c) Some areas in the UK have 3G but no 2G coverage...

The problems your talking about are more to do with your carrier that the iPhone. Maybe you should give them a call or check out some local threads for service disruptions in your area.

how are your apps loading with the 2.0.1? My phone still lags when i try opening up contacts or settings (about 2-3 seconds delay sometimes). Is this just how the phone is? I've jailbroken mine, maybe thats why....

I have iPhone 3g with ATT in chicago and I cant even use it, the service is terrible. I have to turn off 3g and then I have full bars. I guess I have a 3g thats wants to be like my unlocked 2g on tmobile. I am going to cancel my service with ATT.

what about the ist gen iphones they are 2G but what about the users who are using a 3G sim ? did apple make any changes to firmwares as well ?