As the Apple fans wait to snap up anything that the company produces, it is worth taking another look at the set of features promised for the new iPhone software and probable hardware versions.
For instance, the software update finally gives the iPhone cut and paste – a basic function that users have been clamouring for since its launch two years ago. The new hardware will have a better camera but still only 3.2 megapixels, not nearly as powerful as many other phones which already have 5 megapixels. Apple will be touting iPhone’s video capabilities, a feature that has been offered by dozens of other phones for ages.
In other words, for all its revolutionary touchscreen technology, beautiful looks and iconic status, the iPhone has had glaring faults. And, many contend, it is just not that good at the basic stuff – like making phone calls and, especially for the business market, sending and receiving emails. In fact, if all you are after is a mobile phone that makes calls and gives you push email, then don’t buy an iPhone, it is too expensive.
That’s why the best selling smartphone in the US in the first quarter of this year has been RIM’s BlackBerry Curve series (83xx), according to research from the NPD Group. It is a great phone and has been selling like hot cakes, thanks to a buy-one-get-one-free offer from phone operator Verizon Wireless.
Where Apple has the undoubted lead is in its App Store. More than 1 billion pieces of software have been downloaded by customers from the range of 35,000 applications in less than a year. Some of the apps plug some of the holes in the iPhone’s line-up of features, some take the user into a whole new world of mobile gaming, shopping and silliness. Want an app that turns your phone into a virtual lighter that you can hold up during slow songs at concerts? There’s an app for that.
The bonus attractions offered by Apple’s App Store will be the main differentiator for the iPhone’s popularity in the near future, which is why all Apple’s rivals, including RIM and Nokia have launched their own versions. The lack of an app store may be the Palm Pre’s achilles heel as it tries to live up to its billing as the first proper iPhone killer.