The iPhone 4 is stylish, offers video calling and several other interesting new applications. Debuting iPhone s new iOS 4 software, the phone is a huge improvement over the iPhone 3G and 3GS. The phone has many new features that go beyond marketing gimmicks. They will provide real benefits to users.
Design
The iPhone 4 is an elegant device, with glass covering on both sides that Apple claims resists scratches and smudges. While the back glass covering means that careful handling is necessary, the exterior design of the phone is a major improvement over the previous model. It is slimmer, measuring 9.3mm in thickness and weighs almost the same as the 3G.
Another new design feature is a border/covering of stainless steel that also functions as an antenna. The idea is to improve the quality of calls as well as WiFi reception.
Display
iPhone 4 s display is a standout feature with a resolution that is much better than previous phones and the highest on any phone available in the market. It has a 960 by 640 pixel 'Retina Display', which gives a pixel density exceeding what the human eye is capable of processing. Needless to say, the image quality is top-class, with excellent clarity and sharpness.
Battery
Another improvement is with respect to the battery life of the iPhone. Talk time is seven hours with 3G browsing at six hours and WiFi at ten. The improved battery life can be attributed to the A4 chip s impressive power management.
Camera
There s good news in this department with the iPhone 4 featuring a 5 megapixel camera (an improvement of 2 megapixels from 3G), 5x zoom and LED flash. It also has a new front facing camera, which will facilitate video calls. There are improvements in video recording too, with a tap-to-focus feature, like the one introduced in the iPhone 3GS photo camera. You can shoot up to thirty frames each second.
Software and Applications
The iPhone 4 comes with Apple s new iOS 4 operating system. It offers better multi-tasking and application folders can now be featured on the home screen. It also comes with an integrated inbox for all your emails. But surprisingly, 64GB storage option has not been offered. Some of the new and improved applications of the phone are:
Gyroscope - iPhone 4 comes with a gyroscope with a six-axis motion control, accelerometer, yaw, pitch and roll. This is an unexpected feature, but it s unique and many people will find it fun.
FaceTime - This is a video calling feature with both portrait and landscape modes. Your caller can see you through the front camera and also what you are looking at using the rear camera.
iBooks - You can now read ebooks, a feature that was launched on the iPad, on your iPhone as well. You can also browse and buy books from the iBooks store.
iMovie - iPhone 4 s iMovie application allows you to edit videos, trim, attach clips and create your own movies. You can also send video attachments to e-mails and sites such as YouTube.
Conclusion
The iPhone 4 is a major improvement over the 3G and 3G S versions and all its new features are welcome additions. The design is sleek, and improvements in camera and battery life add to its value. The only disappointment is that a 64GB storage option has not been offered (we really wouldn't be surprised if the iPhone 4 64GB is launched in less than a years time).
