The iPhone 3G's reported data speed problems may have more to do with the network and less with the phone itself, according to two different studies.
The results of Wired's 3G data speed survey indicate that network speed varies depending on where you are. For example, Australia has the worst overall 3G performance, while Germany and The Netherlands are on the other end of the spectrum. Wired also found that, "In some major metropolitan areas that are supposedly 3G-rich, 3G performance can be very slow. For example, zooming in on San Francisco, you'll see that 10 out of 30 participants reported very slow 3G speeds -- barely surpassing EDGE."
Second Test: Same Conclusions
Meanwhile, a scientific test conduced in Sweden shows little difference in the performance between the iPhone 3G, a Sony Ericsson P1 and Nokia N73.
However, it's important to note when considering conclusions from the Swedish group, it only tested the hardware. This leaves the door open for a software/firmware issue. See: Techie Swedes prove iPhone 3G reception is "normal."
Late last week, Apple released a software update for the iPhone 3G, but users still reported 3G issues.
Granted, it's still hard to say for sure what the problem is. More testing may need to be done before we know what the problem is for certain, but for now, frustrated iPhone owners have a better idea of where to direct their anger.
