This is a brief comparison of 3.0 vs the 2.x firmware.  2.x made the iPhone and iPod a legitimate device for people who didn't care for an overhyped media player.  3.0 turns the iPhone into a totally new device.  Why?  If the iPhone kept you connected to the world, it does so even better now.  For example, Textfree is a legitimate SMS replacement, now that you are notified at the instant you get an email.  New IMs are shown to you, wherever you are .  And the search and landscape features finally provide adequate flexibility to a virtual keyboard that Steve Jobs claimed was made to be changeable when he announced the iPhone 2 years ago.  I've had an iPhone or iPod touch since their release (an iPhone first, then an iPod touch) and I must say that I am impressed with all of the developments.  The devices have gone from a new gadget to show off to friends to a portable, innovate device that can do almost anything you want it to.

What will the next version of the iPod touch include?  The current rumors point to an update much like the iPhone 3G S was to the iPhone 3G: "under the hood" changes.  The 3.0 software corrected many of the iPod's and iPhone's shortcomings.  Therefore, it is a pretty safe bet to expect speed boosts on the iPod touch 3G.  EXCEPTION: Many sources have pointed to an iPod touch 3G camera with video capabilities.  That may very well be the case, as earlier this year it was reported that Apple purchased millions of small cameras of a lower resolution than what ended up being used in the 3G S.  So could we get a camera in the next iPod touch?  It's a very real possibility.  Apple usually refreshed their iPod line in September, so if you're looking to get an iPod, definitely wait.