Let’s face it: Apple’s iPhone isn’t just a legend but a phenomenon. I’ve said it myself. It has plenty to offer mobile users, and at the same time omits certain basic requirements. 3G iPhone has now launched and all of us are hoping it will address some of these shortcomings. I can’t give you a review of the handset right away, but I can try to make things simpler by giving a concise idea of what’s in store for those who are chewing their nails in anticipation.
The handset no longer has a flat rear panel; it tapers towards the ends. The screen remains the same with its Multi-Touch interactivity, smooth accelerometer, and single Menu key. The charging/USB port has undergone a slight alteration, so if you’re already using an iPhone you’re going to have to junk your old dock and get a new one. The 2MP camera is still where it was; there are no other changes.
What’s In and What’s Still Out
One of the first things that pops into my head when anyone asks me about new features is GPS with A-GPS support. Now, we all know that the iPhone comes with Google Maps preloaded, but an integrated GPS unit should make things really look up. Sadly, according to David Pogue’s review of the iPhone 3G’s GPS capabilities, the handset falls short in this regard. Watch David’s video review below.
It uses Skyhook (also incorporated into Eye-Fi memory cards) that fixes your position by combining Wi-Fi hotspots with cell tower triangulation, so you’ll be able to know where you are even indoors – provided you’re in an area that’s been mapped by Skyhook and has Wi-Fi.
The 3G iPhone doesn’t come with voice navigation like a GPS unit or the 6110 Navigator and other Nokia GPS handsets; it shows you where you are in the form of a small blue dot and will track you as you’re moving around. The reason is the small size of the antenna. Another plus is the GeoTagging feature incorporated in the new Google Maps.
It sounds familiar, right? Doesn’t Google Maps already do all this? Doesn’t it also tell you where you are, even indoors, without Wi-Fi? Why, of course it does!
