I have similar experience with the 2G SD card (when it was first introduced) to use with the Nokia 3250 or so.
The Phone says it WILL support 2G. Unfortunately there wasn't 2G SD available when I bought the phone. When the 2G SD is available, can't wait to get one, plug it in ... @#$%^&*.... the whole phone messed up.
Luckily, still got 2 days before warranty expires ... rush down to Nokia. They said they will update the firmware for me. Waited for 2 hours. Wa la ... everything done and the phone works fine until now.
I like the P1i too. My wife just bought one today.... only 2 left at the store (Hong Goods).