Key iPhone 3G Features
The new iPhone has quite a long list of new features but IMHO, here are the more siginificant ones.
Support for 3G
This is a big winning factor, given that 3G networks are getting better and faster. The iPhone 3G supports three 3G bands (850, 1900, 2100) as well as both UMTS and HSDPA networks.
Assuming the data speed is as good as Steve Job says, you can get much better surfing experience using the new iPhone 3G.
Design change
The iPhone 3G is slightly thicker than the first version except for the edges, which are thinner. However, you are not likely to notice the slight change except for the tapered edges.
The headphone jack is now flushed so that should please many current owners who find the recessed headphone jack in the first version a bit annoying.
There will be 2 color for the 16GB model (black and white) but the 8GB model comes in black only. Hey, if there is demand, maybe there will be a white one too.
Map and GPS
Unlike the original iPhone, the new 3G version will use Assisted GPS supplemented by satellites. You get live tracking so you can check your progress as you drive or walk.
The maps on iPhone lets you switch between map view, satellite view, and a hybrid view of both. (sort of like Google Map on iPhone). For those who love going on the off-beaten track, this feature is a big helper! In addition, the 3G phone also support photo geotagging.
MS Exchange Active Sync support
Business executives will love this one. The iPhone 3G will offer support for Microsoft Exchange Server. This means busy corporate executives can access their emails, contacts and calendar, etc at a touch of a button.
Longer Battery life and talk time
The iPhone 3G promises :
- 5 hours of 3G talk time
- 10 hours of 2G talk time,
- 5 hours of 3G Internet time
- 6 hours of Wi-Fi Internet time
- 7 hours of video playback
- 24 hours of audio playback
- 12.5 days standby time.
International language supports
Up to 16 languages are supported by the new iPhone. This include a graffiti-style application for entering characters in Asian languages. Big plus for those who do not use standard alphabets, such as people from China, Korea and Japan.
Price point
Price have dropped drastically. This is good news for new buyers but I’m not sure how the owners of the first version will feel.
$199 for the 8GB model
$299 for the 16GB version
Price are in US dollars and you have to enter a 2-year contract with AT&T. This is the reason why the price is so much lower than the first version. AT& T is subsidising the cost. Btw, AT&T no longer has to pay Apple any revenue from each iPhone 3G sale (which was the case for the first iPhone).
This model will likely apply to international market as well (i.e. enter a contract with a local telco).
As the iPhone popularity grows, more third party developers will be rolling out new applications for the iPhone by the truckloads. Expect more enhancements and new features in the upcoming months.
