Apple is already in the works with firmware 2.1, adding fully functional directional GPS and push notification.

To the doubtful that thought the iPhone 3G’s GPS capabilities were subpar and would never prevail among its competitors, doubt no more. The lucky few with access to beta 2.1 reveal that Core Location can now recognize the basic direction of an iPhone, as well as its velocity. The GPS will have the necessary components to properly emulate turn-by-turn directions.

AppleInsider has also confirmed that Apple is working to implement background push notification so that third-party programs receive data without interrupting another process. This will save processing power and make sure that the app receiving the notification won’t interrupt apps that depend on constant access to the Internet.

More information on 2.1 should flood the web real soon.