iPhone 3G: Cheaper, Faster, Business Friendlier

The Apple iPhone 3G hits the streets bright and early Friday morning (July 11th) here in the U.S., as well as Canada, Mexico, UK, Japan and a host of other countries worldwide.

iPhone aficionados are revved-up and itching to be the first to snap up the new 3G. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, that’s not really news.

So what’s the big deal about this new smartphone?

Just like the original Apple iPhone you can surf the Internet, check your email, get directions to places you want to go, download music, watch videos… and you can do it all while you’re talking on the phone.

What else has this thing got…?

Along with the previously available built-in iPod, SMS text messaging, camera, calendar and calculator, new features include GPS, third-party software apps, a slightly different look and a new color (white).

Apple’s company site says this about apps…

“No matter what you’re interested in—gaming, chatting, social networking, traveling, news, sports, finance, or business—there are bound to be iPhone applications made especially for it. And since developers are always creating new applications, there’s always more for you to discover. And more that your iPhone can do.”

Of course you can also get the usual array of accessories like a Blue Tooth headset, phone dock (extra) and USB power adapter, as well as a variety of iPhone applications and games.

Sounds impressive so far…

Making the new iPhone even more enticing is its price — the 3G will cost you half what the original Apple iPhone did – at least that’s the picture at first glance.

Caveat Emptor – let the buyer beware…

…Dig a little deeper and you’ll discover the new AT&T service plan will cost you $70 a month compared to $60. If you want text messaging, you’ll have to fork over an additional $5 for 200 messages — $15 for 1500 messages. You’ll also be required to sign a new 2-year contract.

The additional monthly cost adds up to $240 a year — $360 with text messaging. That pretty much devours any savings for the phone.

If you’re an existing customer under a service contract less than 18 months old, AT&T will reward your patronage by slamming you with a $200 early upgrade fee.

Lots of added costs and fees, so you need to read the fine print.

Some 3G iPhone limitations include:

• weaker battery life
• no instant message function
• lack of ability to save files
• no copy and paste function

Despite these annoying shortcomings, there’s plenty to love.

For one, it’s faster. 3G technology means fast access to the web.

You’ll find superb sound quality in the new Apple iPhone 3G — better than most other cellphones.

The G iPhone is smaller and lighter albeit a tiny bit thicker than its bro.

Third-party software applications is a really big deal. No hacking necessary. There are some cool third-party apps available to bridge the gap between what Apple left out and the functionality you want. You don’t have to upgrade to the new 3G to benefit from them, either. Apple apps are available to all iPhone users.

Bottom line — the Apple iPhone 3G is sweet! It’s sleek and sexy, it’s faster, a lot more business friendly, and sure to be a massive hit worldwide. As I post to this blog, no doubt raving fans eager to grab this new generation smartphone are already lined-up to be the first takers the second it goes on sale.

So, is the Apple 3G worth it? I say yes, especially if you love the Apple brand and want the latest and what some consider to be the greatest. Of course, all that coolness comes at a price, so be prepared.

Before you jump into your car to claim yours, be sure you have a valid driver’s license or some form of photo ID, your social security number, a credit card, and your AT&T wireless account and pin number with you.

Check Apple’s website for a complete list of requirements.

Lastly, because of all the hype and high anticipation, there’s a good chance your local dealer will be sold out before you get there, so save yourself a trip — check first. Even if you can’t get your new iPhone the day it hits the street, I doubt Apple will make you wait long, so check back frequently.

---

Upcoming iPhone Articles:

• iPhone Applications – What’s Hot
• iPhone Blue Tooth Headset Reviews
• iPhone vs Samsung Instinct