iPhone 3Gs - Improves on greatness/OS 3.0 makes a dream

Please see also read my reviews of the iPhone 1.0 & 3G

I've owned a cellphone since 1992. I've always had a "top of the line phone" (I've always had AT&T = formerly Cingular = formerly BellSouth Mobility)

In 17 years having cellphones, I've had over 100 (Yes 100+) different models & makes

The iPhone uses GSM - an international standard technology for cellphones. Verizon & Sprint use CDMA (& variants) - this technology is found in very few places widespread outside the USA & Europe.

One minor hardware complaint about the iPhone has been addressed by Apple - the new iPhone 3GS has an oil resistant coating - making it easier to clean and less "smudgeable"

The 3.0 iPhone OS is very stable. The addition of copy & paste, video, & tethering make "jailbreaking" completely unnecessary (Tethering is promised by AT&T in the US later)

I haven't had signal issues w/ many phones, it's always clumsy interfaces.

Every phone I've ever had, no matter how long I've had it - I've had a problem placing a call on hold & answering another call or joining a call into a 3-way. The iPhone interface is so well designed features are clearly labeled - I don't have that problem

I had an HP iPaq 6515 - I hated the keyboard. (Which is similar in design to Palm & Blackberry smartphones w/ physical keyboards) Physical keyboards on cellphones are hard to see, crowded w/ characters & difficult to use w/ my large fingers. iPhone users should try the pogo stylus if they have issues, but give it it time - you will become proficient within a few weeks

The camera on my iPhone 1.0 & 3G was great. The camera on the new iPhone is stunning though. I see myself taking even more pictures. I use the HP iPrint app to print my photos out. The side by side comparison is noticeable from the 1st gen iPhone camera. The viewfinder & capture buttons are crystal clear. It's easy to transfer photos from iPhone to computer for editing

Unlike most smartphones - that have Windows Mobile, the iPhone has an intuitive interface that's easy to understand & navigate. There's no need to read a manual; it's just simple to understand. A Blackberry makes me ask, "where do I go?" & "what do I do?""

The iPhone 3GS has a faster processor (600Mhz vs 433Mhz) & more RAM (256MB vs 128MB). This makes the iPhone 3GS feel significantly snappier.

Because an iPhone uses standard iPod sync & charge cables, accessories are easy to find.

Battery life is very good & improved from the previous generations of iPhones; even when utilizing power draining features like Wifi & Bluetooth.

I can actually use the calculator on an iPhone, unlike on other cell phones where you have to figure out corresponding keys

The Google Maps feature is amazing w/ the ability to use satellite data, the addition of the compass & GPS pinpoints your location w/ amazing accuracy & even better than dedicated GPS devices. The GPS integration w/ LocateMe is awesome

My complaints:

- Edge data network is acceptable & what I have to connect to the most often but I still have to pay for 3G data access = $10 more each month

- FM transmitters don't work well due to interference

- AT&T has limited some features (at least initially)

The new iPhone is definitely worth the upgrade. I now have enough room to back up the important parts of my hard drive to the iPhone, thanks to the 32GB capacity. I have right at 8GB of music & 6GB of pictures, text message, apps, etc - so the 32GB model will come in handy for me

iPhone 3Gs - Improves on greatness / Affordable iPhone

Please also read my reviews of the iPhone 1.0 & 3G.

I've owned a cellphone since 1992. I've always had a "top of the line phone" (I've always had AT&T = formerly Cingular = formerly BellSouth Mobility)

In 17 years having cellphones, I've had over 100 (Yes 100+) different models & makes

The iPhone uses GSM - an international standard technology for cellphones. Verizon & Sprint use CDMA (& variants) - this technology is found in very few places widespread outside the USA & Europe.

One minor hardware complaint about the iPhone has been addressed by Apple - the new iPhone 3GS has an oil resistant coating - making it easier to clean and less "smudgeable"

The 4.0 iPhone OS is very stable. The addition of copy & paste, video, & tethering make "jailbreaking" completely unnecessary

I haven't had signal issues w/ many phones, it's always clumsy interfaces.

Every phone I've ever had, no matter how long I've had it - I've had a problem placing a call on hold & answering another call or joining a call into a 3-way. The iPhone interface is so well designed features are clearly labeled - I don't have that problem

I had an HP iPaq 6515 - I hated the keyboard. (Which is similar in design to Palm & Blackberry smartphones w/ physical keyboards) Physical keyboards on cellphones are hard to see, crowded w/ characters & difficult to use w/ my large fingers. iPhone users should try the pogo stylus if they have issues, but give it it time - you will become proficient within a few weeks

The camera on my iPhone 1.0 & 3G was great. The camera on the new iPhone is stunning though. I see myself taking even more pictures. I use the HP iPrint app to print my photos out. The side by side comparison is noticeable from the 1st gen iPhone camera. The viewfinder & capture buttons are crystal clear. It's easy to transfer photos from iPhone to computer for editing

Unlike most smartphones - that have Windows Mobile, the iPhone has an intuitive interface that's easy to understand & navigate. There's no need to read a manual; it's just simple to understand. A Blackberry makes me ask, "where do I go?" & "what do I do?""

The iPhone 3GS has a faster processor (600Mhz vs 433Mhz) & more RAM (256MB vs 128MB). This makes the iPhone 3GS feel significantly snappier.

Because an iPhone uses standard iPod sync & charge cables - accessories are easy to find.

Battery life is very good & improved from the previous generations of iPhones; even when utilizing power draining features like Wifi & Bluetooth.

I can actually use the calculator on an iPhone, unlike on other cell phones where you have to figure out corresponding keys

The Google Maps feature is amazing w/ the ability to use satellite data, the addition of the compass & GPS pinpoints your location w/ amazing accuracy & even better than dedicated GPS devices. The GPS integration w/ LocateMe is awesome

My complaints:

- Edge data network is acceptable & what I connect to the most often, but I still have to pay for 3G data access = $10 more each month
- FM transmitters don't work well due to interference

The new iPhone is definitely worth the upgrade. I now have enough room to back up the important parts of my hard drive to the iPhone, thanks to the 32GB capacity. I have right at 8GB of music & 6GB of pictures, text message, apps, etc - so the 32GB model will come in handy for me

Modest improvements--still lacking in areas

I've owned all iterations of the iPhone--and this is by far the one I was most impressed with. The switch from the 3g-->3gS puts the previous 1st-->3g jump to shame.

The 3gS variants are almost identical to the previous 3G iPhones. The major changes are NOT cosmetic in nature. The CPU has been improved from 412mhz to 600mhz, the ram has been doubled, a new graphics chip has been installed (providing OpenGL support), a new camera, and an internal compass has been built in (see more). Sadly, there is STILL no 3rd party routing software available--google maps is sufficient though.


Thoughts: 3G vs. 3G S

1. The battery life for both is rather similar. SLIGHT improvement in the 3G S.
2. The LCD digitizer (touchscreen) is practically the same with both editions--3G seems brighter.
3. Dimensions and case sizes are nearly identical--3G S is a bit thinner. The engravings on the back are different, but you're getting the same pretty case from the 3G.
4. Unaided GPS (without AT&T tower assistance) is just about as weak in both models... but the 3G S sports an internal compass, allowing for amazing accuracy and directional navigation while hiking and "street-walking". Hands down, the best new addition to the 3G S.
5. The new CPU and graphics chip combine for SIGNIFICANTLY decreased loading times when partaking in both graphically intensive gaming, and everyday activities (web browser loading). In games, this contributes to increased frame rates which are highly noticeable.
6. The internal camera has been boosted from a paltry 2mp to an adequate 3mp. It's not spectacular, but it's in line with current offerings. It features autofocus, which is a very nice addition. FINALLY, users have built-in video recording capability without going to extreme lengths.


What is disturbing about this model:

1. Do NOT let it overheat. Make sure you keep it charged in a cool location with sufficient airflow. This means DON'T put it on fabric. Don't overcharge, and be sure to inspect (check for overheating) regularly. The first time it overheats (it will be HOT to the touch), the battery output will GREATLY diminish (1/2 to 1/3 capacity), and should be changed through Apple.
2. There is NO apple-supplied application for checking and resetting the iPhone battery. This is provided for MacBooks, but not the iPod line
3. As with all iPhone models, buy a case--a Zagg InvisibleShield to protect it from scratches and the odd bump/bruise--or a silicone case--I highly recommend a screen protector. iPhones are FRAGILE (see below).
4. Internal components are flush with the case, and simple dents will cause components/features to fail.
5. DO NOT attempt to open ANY iPhone model for repair if you do not have experience--the cases/trim are prone to dents/bends, and you are likely to scratch/damage internal components if you attempt to replace the digitizer or battery yourself (the most common repairs). It is better to take them directly to Apple stores for repair.
6. Based on who you talk to, Apple will ONLY honor the 1 year manufacturer warranty if the iPhone is linked to an AT&T contract. If you have Jailbroken/Unlocked your iPhone, reset it to factory firmware and specifications before attempting to deal with Apple Repair.
7. No external HD capacity detected--camera only.
8. You have to deal with iTunes to activate and sync music.
9. Still no front-based camera for video-conferencing... very important to business users.

Hope this helped

Modest improvements--still lacking in areas

I've owned all iterations of the iPhone--and this is by far the one I was most impressed with. The switch from the 3g-->3gS puts the previous 1st-->3g jump to shame.

The 3gS variants are almost identical to the previous 3G iPhones. The major changes are NOT cosmetic in nature. The CPU has been improved from 412mhz to 600mhz, the ram has been doubled, a new graphics chip has been installed (providing OpenGL support), a new camera, and an internal compass has been built in (see more). Sadly, there is STILL no 3rd party routing software available--google maps is sufficient though.


Thoughts: 3G vs. 3G S

1. The battery life for both is rather similar. SLIGHT improvement in the 3G S.
2. The LCD digitizer (touchscreen) is practically the same with both editions--3G seems brighter.
3. Dimensions and case sizes are nearly identical--3G S is a bit thinner. The engravings on the back are different, but you're getting the same pretty case from the 3G.
4. Unaided GPS (without AT&T tower assistance) is just about as weak in both models... but the 3G S sports an internal compass, allowing for amazing accuracy and directional navigation while hiking and "street-walking". Hands down, the best new addition to the 3G S.
5. The new CPU and graphics chip combine for SIGNIFICANTLY decreased loading times when partaking in both graphically intensive gaming, and everyday activities (web browser loading). In games, this contributes to increased frame rates which are highly noticeable.
6. The internal camera has been boosted from a paltry 2mp to an adequate 3mp. It's not spectacular, but it's in line with current offerings. It features autofocus, which is a very nice addition. FINALLY, users have built-in video recording capability without going to extreme lengths.


What is disturbing about this model:

1. Do NOT let it overheat. Make sure you keep it charged in a cool location with sufficient airflow. This means DON'T put it on fabric. Don't overcharge, and be sure to inspect (check for overheating) regularly. The first time it overheats (it will be HOT to the touch), the battery output will GREATLY diminish (1/2 to 1/3 capacity), and should be changed through Apple.
2. There is NO apple-supplied application for checking and resetting the iPhone battery. This is provided for MacBooks, but not the iPod line
3. As with all iPhone models, buy a case--a Zagg InvisibleShield to protect it from scratches and the odd bump/bruise--or a silicone case--I highly recommend a screen protector. iPhones are FRAGILE (see below).
4. Internal components are flush with the case, and simple dents will cause components/features to fail.
5. DO NOT attempt to open ANY iPhone model for repair if you do not have experience--the cases/trim are prone to dents/bends, and you are likely to scratch/damage internal components if you attempt to replace the digitizer or battery yourself (the most common repairs). It is better to take them directly to Apple stores for repair.
6. Based on who you talk to, Apple will ONLY honor the 1 year manufacturer warranty if the iPhone is linked to an AT&T contract. If you have Jailbroken/Unlocked your iPhone, reset it to factory firmware and specifications before attempting to deal with Apple Repair.
7. No external HD capacity detected--camera only.
8. You have to deal with iTunes to activate and sync music.
9. Still no front-based camera for video-conferencing... very important to business users.

Hope this helped

Modest improvements--still lacking in areas

I've owned all iterations of the iPhone--and this is by far the one I was most impressed with. The switch from the 3g-->3gS puts the previous 1st-->3g jump to shame.

The 3gS variants are almost identical to the previous 3G iPhones. The major changes are NOT cosmetic in nature. The CPU has been improved from 412mhz to 600mhz, the ram has been doubled, a new graphics chip has been installed (providing OpenGL support), a new camera, and an internal compass has been built in (see more). Sadly, there is STILL no 3rd party routing software available--google maps is sufficient though.


Thoughts: 3G vs. 3G S

1. The battery life for both is rather similar. SLIGHT improvement in the 3G S.
2. The LCD digitizer (touchscreen) is practically the same with both editions--3G seems brighter.
3. Dimensions and case sizes are nearly identical--3G S is a bit thinner. The engravings on the back are different, but you're getting the same pretty case from the 3G.
4. Unaided GPS (without AT&T tower assistance) is just about as weak in both models... but the 3G S sports an internal compass, allowing for amazing accuracy and directional navigation while hiking and "street-walking". Hands down, the best new addition to the 3G S.
5. The new CPU and graphics chip combine for SIGNIFICANTLY decreased loading times when partaking in both graphically intensive gaming, and everyday activities (web browser loading). In games, this contributes to increased frame rates which are highly noticeable.
6. The internal camera has been boosted from a paltry 2mp to an adequate 3mp. It's not spectacular, but it's in line with current offerings. It features autofocus, which is a very nice addition. FINALLY, users have built-in video recording capability without going to extreme lengths.


What is disturbing about this model:

1. Do NOT let it overheat. Make sure you keep it charged in a cool location with sufficient airflow. This means DON'T put it on fabric. Don't overcharge, and be sure to inspect (check for overheating) regularly. The first time it overheats (it will be HOT to the touch), the battery output will GREATLY diminish (1/2 to 1/3 capacity), and should be changed through Apple.
2. There is NO apple-supplied application for checking and resetting the iPhone battery. This is provided for MacBooks, but not the iPod line
3. As with all iPhone models, buy a case--a Zagg InvisibleShield to protect it from scratches and the odd bump/bruise--or a silicone case--I highly recommend a screen protector. iPhones are FRAGILE (see below).
4. Internal components are flush with the case, and simple dents will cause components/features to fail.
5. DO NOT attempt to open ANY iPhone model for repair if you do not have experience--the cases/trim are prone to dents/bends, and you are likely to scratch/damage internal components if you attempt to replace the digitizer or battery yourself (the most common repairs). It is better to take them directly to Apple stores for repair.
6. Based on who you talk to, Apple will ONLY honor the 1 year manufacturer warranty if the iPhone is linked to an AT&T contract. If you have Jailbroken/Unlocked your iPhone, reset it to factory firmware and specifications before attempting to deal with Apple Repair.
7. No external HD capacity detected--camera only.
8. You have to deal with iTunes to activate and sync music.
9. Still no front-based camera for video-conferencing... very important to business users.

Hope this helped