Does the iPhone 3GS Stand up to the Hype?

• Tweet
• Sharebar

• Tweet

Two years ago, Apple introduced the coolest looking cell phone on the market. Other manufacturers have followed in Apple’s footsteps with touch screens and advanced features, so it’s no surprise that Apple keeps fighting to stay on top. Recently, Apple has attempted to add fuel to their money-making machine with the new iPhone 3GS. The phone has new features, advanced capabilities, and the popular screen that iPhone users know and love.

iPhone 3GS Enhancements

Roll out the video camera. The new iPhone 3GS enhances older models with a video recorder for the phone.  This isn’t enhanced technology as much as it is a catch-up move by Apple to other phone manufacturers who already implemented video capabilities. For avid iPhone users, however, this is an exciting new feature.

The camera on the new 3GS takes amazing images. The phone’s megapixel ratio jumped from one to two, making some of the most brilliantly sharp snapshots.  The problem that Apple doesn’t seem to want to rectify is the iPhone’s lack of a camera flash, so don’t expect great pictures if you use it at night.

Apple promises improved performance with its new phone. The cell phone cuts download time by half with the enhanced data network. Downloading a popular website reduced browsing time from 16 seconds down to 7, which satisfies Internet junkies who need their favorite sites fast.

Watson, Can You Encode Me?

Phones have come a long way since Alexander Graham Bell, but this inventor took the time to test his creation with his assistant. Apple’s new rollout of a full, voice controlled phone still needs a little work. The voice control is capable of handling basic, one-word tasks, but the recognition for more advanced functions doesn’t work as often as one would like.  There is an error rate of approximately 50% when giving voice commands, so frustrations may lead consumers to ditch the voice control for more traditional dialing.  Apple may want to rethink voice control for its iPhone, since this technology hasn’t been perfected for even old, clunky desktop machines.

Never Get Lost Again

If you have a poor sense of direction, then you might appreciate the iPhone 3GS compass. The new compass is a handy feature for those who are traveling and can’t figure out a direction.  The compass interfaces with Google Maps, so it’s an interesting addition for anyone who doesn’t have GPS systems in the car.  However, this technology has some users frustrated since the iPhone is extremely sensitive to interference. Apple’s webpage leaves a disclaimer that the compass is sensitive to magnetic forces in the area, so make sure you aren’t at home next to your computer when trying out the new application.

Overall, the new iPhone 3GS is a must-have if you can afford the $299 for the 32GB model.  Cut your hard drive space in half, and the price drops to $199.  Jumping from the first generation model to the newest technology will strengthen your love for the iPhone.