There's a big difference between the first gen iPhone and the iPhone 3G. Apple is moving forward with firmware updates much quicker this time around. In fact, the 3G 2.1 firmware is already being offered to developers for beta testing.

Initial talk is showing that the main focus of the updates will revolve around the GPS. Specifically, Core Location features are being added that track your direction of movement and rate of speed. It's not turn-by-turn yet, but it looks to be well on its way. 

No word yet on whether or not 2.1 will address the accelerometer issues, app crashes or random reboots, but it definitely seems like Apple is focused on expanding what's currently inside the iPhone 3G to its fullest capacity. 

[via The Boy Genius Report]