Apple has just released the new firmware 2.1 beta to developers. Firmware 2.1 brings a better GPS integration for 3G devices to allow using it as a real navigation receiver. The GPS feature “Core Location” can now also detect the speed and the direction of your moves. For 2G and 3G users there will be an update included for better integration of push notifications.

Along with this beta Apple shipped the new SDK. But currently this new SDK cannot be used to provide Apps to the AppStore.

We are not aware yet, if this update solves the slowing-down issues of Apps (we reported here).