Whats this?

Apple’s release of the iphone 4 was really no surprise. An employee of Apple lost the prototype, which engadget got, which made it’s way all over the internet, so really, Steve Jobs wasn’t amused. “some of you have already seen this”, said he at the Keynote speech.

So, the iphone 4. It’s got a substantial array of improvements over the 3GS, such as a higher resolution display, 5 megapixel camera, GPS, video calling, a new OS and supposedly better reception. But is it REALLY capable as compared with other smart phones such as the upcoming Nokia N8/N9 or the new HTC’s that will feature Windows Mobile 7? Most if not all those features of the iphone 4 were available on the Nokia N95 3 years ago…

Multi-tasking?

The multitasking capabilites of the iphone 4 are limited, very many websites and authors have reported this. i’m yet to hold a physical unit but in my opinion, i think Apple could have done a better job in that area. Perhaps their piecemeal approach of adding features with each update will address this. The iphone is a serious competitor to the corporate Symbian and Blackberry devices. It’s used in very many organizations. Perhaps its the segment in which it’s being marketed could be the reason. In my opinion Even a Symbian 8 device circa 2005 can multi-task better! I wish they could have allowed totally free multitasking in the device, this would have easily kept the device ahead of the competition…

And the camera?

5 Megapixels. The N95 and the LG KG910 pioneered this resolution. 5 megapixel unit is becoming standard now, just the way many of the older Nokias (and some new ones as well) used reliable 2 megapixel units. For the average consumer 5 megapixels is fine. The 720p recording should be more than enough for regular consumers both business and personal levels. For further future proofing though, Apple should have fixed an 8 mega pixel unit. I mean, look at the beast Nokia’s about to release, the N8 has a whole 12 megapixel unit!

Nokia N8

I suppose they didn’t want to alter the image of the iphone into heavy imaging device. Some lower end Samsung units offer basic 8 megapixel units. I will assume they had their reasons.

That screen!

A high resolution 960×640 LED screen is fantastic! If you’re an avid Internet user (most iphone users are) and you love streaming videos or watching movies stored, then this screen is just perfect! i’m fascinated about how they achieved this technology. HTC should be up to something as well….

It has Multi touch capabilities, sort of like a macbook’s touch pad. Pinch and swipe. Gaming should be quite fun on this device.

Music

16 or 32gb. Really, The N97 has 32gb but the audio quality cannot match the premium sound produced by the iphone 4. Audiophiles will be VERY happy with the quality produced by it.

Worth getting then?

The iphone commands a very interesting image. Business companion or media device, and being a brand of Apple expect the highest quality in terms of build standards. Glass, metal and ceramics. Artsy or corporate, even regular consumers should be very pleased.

I look forward to this device landing here in Kenya. If Orange Kenya are smart they will offer decent bundles that caters for the whole market, and not a select few as seen with the iphone 3g.

Batian