This past week, the hot topic surrounding the Palm Pre was actually linked together with the iPhone. Apple was granted a patent filed over certain technologies used in the iPhone’s hardware and software interface, and just about everyone was trying to figure out what this meant for Palm, and if they would get the Pre to the Market as promised.

Two videos of the Pre’s interface were shown in high definition, the second showing features that were previously unseen. Among the new eye candy was a drag-to-unlock feature, possible syncing with iTunes, and more info about the camera and its technologies.

Some new release dates to add upon the rumor mill were found. The Pre could now launch in almost any month of first half 2009 and have a corresponding rumored release date from January.

On a somber note, Sprint announced that they would be cutting 8,000 jobs to save on staffing costs. Palm may not be the only company relying on the Pre for salvation in today’s tough economy. To be fair, Sprint has had increasing network coverage, rising customer service satisfaction scores, and one of the top handsets (the Samsung Instinct) of 2008. None of these seem to matter though, as Q4 2008 is expected to have “sobering financial results.”