Despite technical setbacks that temporarily stopped or slowed sales in some countries, Apple still sold a million of its new iPhone 3G combination iPod and smartphone over the weekend. The iPhone 3G went on sale in 21 countries on July 11, and will be available in about 70 by the end of the year.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs commented "iPhone 3G had a stunning opening weekend. It took 74 days to sell the first one million original iPhones, so the new iPhone 3G is clearly off to a great start around the world."

Hopeful buyers began lining up to get their hands on the iPhone 3G hours, and in some cases days, in advance. Most stores opened their doors at 8AM local time, and as more locations began selling the iPhone 3G, AT&T's account and activation system began to fail, leaving many markets hobbled and unable to sell or activate phones.

Once the systems were back up and running again, sales continued through the weekend.

iPhone 3G, the successor to the original iPhone, includes 3G wireless data connectivity, a built-in GPS, 2 megapixel digital camera, Wi-Fi, iPhone Software 2.0, support for Microsoft Exchange, access to the App Store, and more.

Interest in the iPhone 3G seems to be high, and if customers remain pleased with Apple's latest offering, it could be set to eat away at even more of the BlackBerry and Treo market share.