Will the older iphones get 3G with the next update?

No there is no 3G chip in the current iPhones; the chip that accesses the EDGE network is said to be “2.5G”, but the 3G (HSPA) chips are significantly greater bandwidth and resource hogs (including battery life).

well, since it doesn’t have the chip, it can’t get the function, easy as pie

No. The big update in June involves software. Moving up to 3G would require different hardware. You’re stuck with 2nd generation internet connection speeds.

To be fair though. Is there really anything to be gained by having a 3G iPhone. We are really talking about two features here, video calling and faster internet. I for one wouldn’t really ever use video calling to any degree, and to be honest I’m actually happy enough with the EDGE connection I have when out and about. At home then I have WIFI.

I just can’t get myself excited about 3G.

Not to mention 3G is not available everywhere. I know it isn’t available here in Western MD.