Thanks So much! I was getting so infuriated with that damn "hidden word" tip I wanted to throw the phone at the wall at times. I don't know why LG hasn't updated the version of Swype included with the phone. At least there is finally a workaround.
as far as I've read around, LG hasn't updated squat for the VM optimus. The sprint version has had several firmware updates, though.
I tried removing the stock swype in froyo and downloading the beta, but it refused to install. Just as well, I like gingerbread better anyway.
too bad about the word choice window not being optional in swype beta 3, I sure don't like being unable to turn it off. other than that, I haven't noticed much difference in the beta versions.
I'm about to roll back to the 2.x beta I downloaded last, from my nandroid backup, to get rid of the extra screen-blocking popup for word choice.
the beta 3 still pops up the hidden word tip at me, as well. ugh.