While others were busy trying to keep up with Appleâs iPhone, the company was busy developing new features that make iPhone more stylish, powerful and easier to use. The result is iPhone 4: the biggest upgrade since iPhone 3G. With the launch of iPhone 4, Apple demonstrates an unbeatable presence in the smartphone market. The phone is exclusively available with AT&T in the US, and with other mobile networks in the world. Before you go and buy this newer, shinier gadget, you should know what it offers and what not.
Features:
Well, to say that the iPhone 4 is packed with features would be an understatement. Instead, it is stuffed with them. The iPhone 4 offers enhanced performance, new display and upgraded design. The new iPhone’s design is different from the original 3G and 3GS. Apple used Aluminosilicate glass which make iPhone 4 more scratch resistant and long lasting than the previous generation. The entire phone is circled by a stainless steel border, and acts as part of the antenna for 3G and WiFi.
The new iPhone 4 is the showcase handset for Appleâs newest operating system, iOS 4. The biggest new feature is, selective multitasking. It allows users to switch among applications, go back and forth to organize the tasks perfectly without consuming too many resources and battery power. Multitasking feature is accessible by tapping the âHomeâ button twice.
The phone’s USP is its 940×640 retina display which is 4 times the resolution of the previous iPhone’s. Phone uses an IPS screen with a contrast ratio of 800:1, same as the iPad. Another highlight of the phone is its feature that you canât notice any pixels in the display. The display has an oleophobic layer that makes the phone easier to clean.
The iPhone 4 genuinely represents the pinnacle of Apple design, phone is 4.5 inches tall and 2.3 inches wide. While the height is same as that of iPhone 3GS, this new version is thinner by 25 percent. The 3.5 mm headset jack and power key sit at the top. The microphone, 30 pin connector and speaker are located at the iPhone 4âs bottom end.
New features like a front VGA camera, new LED flash with the rear camera, noise cancelling microphone, new split volume buttons and micro SIM standard are welcome additions as they showcase new functionality. However, the biggest feature of the new iPhone 4 is its video calling, thanks to its front VGA camera. Apple calls this feature FaceTime, and it works iPhone 4 to i Phone 4 via WiFi. Apple claims, FaceTime will be accessible on 3G networks in the future.
The âHomeâ button is in the same place as before. There is also the option for âHomeâ screen customization. The new iPhone will also support Video Editing software ‘iMovie’, which edits even 720p high definition video. iBooks will also be available for the new iOS 4. Apple claims that 325 pixel per inch display of iPhone 4 will make the books comfortably readable.
High points:
1. The super fast iOS 4 combined with sleek design makes iPhone 4 the most sought after smartphone in the market.
2. The longevity of the battery is a striking feature, Apple claims that battery once charged gives 7 hours of talk time on 3G and 14 hours on 2G.
3. The iOS 4 is capable to run all the apps developed by Apple or independent developers.
4. The phone has got an aesthetic appeal which is the characteristic of all the Apple products.
Low points:
1. Glass is shiny and beautiful, but there are a couple of concerns. Glass attracts smudges and scratches though Apple CEO, Steve Jobs, has given the assurance that this wonât be a problem. But the durability factor is a concern when you carry your priceless iPhone 4 in your pocket with coins and keys.
2. With the new Micro SIM card slot, the user will not be able to use a standard SIM in the phone. Though this is done to make space for a larger size battery. Unfortunately, you still cannot remove the battery from your iPhone.
3. Problems have been noted with voice reception in the previous iPhones. This was largely blamed on the connectivity provided by AT&T. This time again with the launch of iPhone 4, Apple doesnât promise any improvement in Wi Fi reception and call quality, though the matter needs to be properly addressed.
4. There are complaints with the multitasking operation stating that iOS 4 doesnât do real multitasking. For instance, you canât simultaneously run an application in the background while working on another.
Price:
The iPhone 4 is available in black or white and will cost $199 and $299 for 16GB and 32GB. The phone is available with and without contract. AT&T and Verizon both offers range of plans starting from $39. Without contract, iPhone 4 will cost $599 and $699. In conclusion, if you are not anxious about other smartphones available in the market ,then you should definitely go and sign the two year contract with AT&T and be a proud owner of the iPhone 4.
