Jun
iPhone 3G…meh…iPhone 2.0 Software…rockin’!
Two evenings ago I had time to watch the WWDC Keynote presentation. During the presentation, Steve Jobs introduced the new iPhone 3G. A new hardware version of the current iPhone. The new hardware specs include 3G connectivity (for a 2-3 times speed increase over the current Edge network) and built in GPS. They also claim to have bumped up the battery life a bit. Most of you know I am generally very excited when Apple releases a new product, but even dropping the price to $199 (subsidized and requires a 2-year contract), I am not ready replace my current iPhone. Why? I’m glad you asked. You did ask…right?
First of all, AT&T wants to charge more for 3G connectivity. I am not ready to give AT&T any more of my money so I can be more patient while I wait for my e-mail to download. As for the built in GPS? Well, we already own a TomTom which we really like, so having another GPS would be a redundant technology for our car. So the realist in me says, “Let’s wait until next year when they might update the camera a bit, lower the 3G connectivity price, up the memory to 32Mb and offer a bit larger screen.” I also feel that since I spent $600 for the phone last year, that I need to get more value from my purchase. Yep, just not ready to make that plunge yet.
Click to learn More about the iPhone 3G
The good news for first generation owners not ready to upgrade is that current iPhone users will be able to upgrade to the latest iPhone software (Version 2.0) for free! That upgrade includes enough features to keep me busy while I hold off for another year (downloadable apps and MobileMe). And let’s face it, the original silver back is so much cooler than the new black or white (ugh). I’ve almost convinced myself that the current incarnation of the phone will become a cult hit, as did the iPod Mini, and if I ever do decided to upgrade, there will be numerous eBay folks out there who will be happy to purchase my first generation iPhone.
Now, I’m not saying that the new iPhone is a dud. No…not at all. If you are going to buy a phone, this is the time to do it. The price is right and you are going to get a wonderful tool that will change how you stay in touch with folks. And if you buy now, you’ll be more high tech than yours truly. That is unless Nikki decides she wants my old phone! 
