TiPb vs. TiPb: Why I AM SO Upgrading to iPhone 3GS
[TiPb vs. TiPb time! In the blue corner we have Jeremy who tells us why he IS SO upgrading to the iPhone 3G S. In the red corner, Chad who tells us why he IS NOT upgrading to the iPhone 3G S. Two writers, one issue. Check them both out and tell us who's side you're on!]
There have been a lot of people out there who are very disappointed with the third generation iPhone -- iPhone 3G S. They're saying that it is pretty much the same phone as the current iPhone 3G, or that the upgrades are not enough to warrant purchasing the new iPhone 3G S. I'm here to say, think again - the upgrades are very significant indeed.
More after the break!
Let me first address one of the biggest -- and for some only -- gripe: "it looks the same as the iPhone 3G". True, the iPhone 3G S has the exact same size as the iPhone 3G but is slightly heavier. Is that really a bad thing?
Sadly we live in a world that has major hang ups on looks and status. Sure Apple could have changed the glossy back to a matte finish. Or perhaps they could have done away with the chrome bezel and raised the phones headset speaker up a bit, etc... Those small changes may have been just big enough to require different accessories like cases and battery packs, rendering previous items useless and causing you to have to go out and spend even more money.
The next thing I've been hearing an awful lot is "there are not enough updates to warrant me upgrading" or "I expected a lot more from Apple". I think that too many people expect Apple to revolutionize the cell phone market every year with an entirely new iPhone. Wake up call -- it's not going to happen! They did it once with the first generation iPhone that revolutionized the market and each year since then they've improved upon it. And the improvements are not irrelevant like some of you may think:
- 3 megapixel camera with capability to record VGA resolution video at 30 FPS
- 7.2 HSDPA (up to twice as fast as 3G)
- Improved battery performance
- Faster processors
- Double the amount of RAM
- Up to double the storage capacity (32GB)
According to Apple, the performance difference between the 3G and the 3G S alone is on average 2x. That is not to be overlooked. It's no different than someone who says a normal DVD is fine for them and see no need for a Blu-Ray player -- that is until they actually watch a Blu-Ray movie and are blown away. That's how I feel current 3G owners who are not going to upgrade will feel once they get their hands on a 3G S. Blown away.
Now don't get me wrong, for a lot of people the iPhone 3G is perfectly fine. And why not, it is a great phone. This is geared more towards the people out there who feel Apple has just put this phone together simply to get a phone out there without making great improvements. You my friends, could not be further from the truth. Looks don't mean everything.
Ok, so that list right there is why I am upgrading and by no means is it a small upgrade in my book. If you're upgrading, tell us why in the comments. And if you're not, tell us why not as well.
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I'm NOT upgrading simply because I am not eligible for an upgrade. Last year, iPhone users were automatically given the subsidized price. It's just wayyy too much money for me.
Not upgrading, cause I still got a year on my contract, i would sureley upgrade if i could.
@Omar, and we completely understand that. The reason for the subsidy last year was simply because the first iPhone did not offer a discount so they gave it to you last year.
I will still make fun of you if you went from 3G to 3G S.
Camera, in my case, I always have to carry a digital camera with me. So getting +1.0 megapixel is well, still crap. I really think no one shouuld be making anything below 5.0 MP at this age.
7.2 HSDPA, LOLOLOLOL with AT&T, give me a break. They can't even fully support 3.0Mbps yet and it has been out for awhile, so thinking you're getting anywhere close to 7.2 is a moronic joke.
Improved battery performance, I actually love this but 3G talk time is still very same or has improved by not much (please do your own research).
Double the amount of ram, this is actually pretty awesome, but I personally am never really in a rush, even with the GPS, I'm willing to go an extra block and turn around if I missed a turn. Still, kudos.
Capacity. I was hoping to see 32G and 64G but I knew it wasn't going to happen so I'm not extremely disappointed but there is still that, I wish factor.
Far as compass goes, my car mirror has one, my radar detector has one so, not really a need.
Oh, bone to pick with the author, do you really think we give rats a$$ about how the phone looks? Most of us customize is anyway to begin with. Not too many people have complained about looks so I don't know why you're pinning that on us. Perhaps you need to think again on why you got the new one.
Probably will not upgrade, since I'm not eligible for the reduced pricing until April. By then, all the buzz will be for the 4th-gen iPhone. Therefore, I'll probably skip a generation and upgrade next summer.
Even if eligible, I may still take a pass. Can't see using the video recording. Current speed good enough for me, since I mostly use Wi-Fi. Voice calling would be awesome, but I don't think I would upgrade for that alone.
I am not upgrading because the new os on the iphone 3g gives me what i wanted. I have no need for a better camera since i rarely take pics or shoot video. A compass is a cool but trivial add on. I have no burning desire to voice control anything. 2X processing power is nice, but its not like my current iphone is slow at doing anything (maybe when more apps come out that utilize the extra power i might notice a performance hit)
cut/copy/paste, MMS, landscape keyboard, global search, and push notification (which i havent seen mentioned anywhere) are all i want for IphoneXmas!!!
@Frank, there are a lot of people who care about how the phone looks actually - check out the forums. As far as your other points you completely avoided the processor and speed. I never mentioned a compass because like you, it only serves one purpose for my needs and that's GPS related.
I will wait for OS 3.0 and see how that goes first. I would upgrade but I'm not willing to pay $699 (because I want the 32GB). I would upgrade only because I want my whole iTunes collection with me (entails getting the 32GB). I think the thing I like about the 3G[s] the most is the voice control. Though I'm still really skeptical that it's a hardware thing.
I'm happy with my 3G and I will probably upgrade next year. Besides, next year's iPhone should be even better!
@Jeremy Sikora
Please refer the this link, there aren't many complaints about the looks,
http://forum.theiphoneblog.com/iphone-forum/172403-disappointed-iphone-3gs.html
It's the one that you posted. Thank you.
Not upgrading because the cost and surly becuase next year ill get the iphone i really wanted and a year flies by so no biggie
@Frank, keep looking - they are there. Trust me. To each their own my friend.
And no, thank you...
Where did they say double the RAM. There is no confirmed upgrade in ram.
I for one, will definitely be uprading since I still have the first generation iPhone, and am eligible for an upgrade next month. The only reason I didn't upgrade last year was because the main improvement was 3g data, and as of now there STILL is no 3g coverage in my area, but the new features of the 3GS are definitely worth it, plus the fact that some 3.0 features like mms won't work on my phone. And sure a front facing camera and video calling would have been nice for some, but nobody I know can make video calls anyway so it doesn't matter to me.
good post.
i like how apple has maintained accessory compatibility by not changing the shape. why render a whole ecosystem of peripherals useless for the sake of fashion?
apple knows the bulk of their customers are going to be sticking with the 3G anyway, due to the nature of the at&t contracts. The 3GS is targeted at people who haven't purchased an iPhone yet, first gen iPhone owners at the end of their original contracts and people with enough techlust to pay the upgrade premium.
teasing people with something they can't buy without breaking their contract would only alienate the existing install base anyway. making the phone look completely different would make people sticking to the 3G for contract reasons feel behind the curve and perhaps look to get off the curve entirely when their contract finally does end.
To me this feels like a sort of hardware dot release . . . a little faster, a little bit more stable, slightly better camera. Really, look at the name of the product "3G S", it really does say it all its a faster 3G. That may also be why they kept the same design.
I won't be upgrading because im sure more significant upgrades will be made at WWDC 2010 and I'm willing to hold out for something that just a slight upgrade to the devices speed and camera.
here's what would make me upgrade:
Things that would be a nice bonus when i upgrade:
Does anyone agree with me? - HARDWARE button to trigger the cameras shutter!! I'm sick of that screen thing.
Last year I got the 3g on release day and paid the full, un-subsidized price of $499. So would that qualify me for an upgrade at the subsidized price this time?
@Vdozier, you should yes. Simply visit AT&T's web site and log into your account and check to make sure.
Indeed, as Truth said, where is the evidence that RAM has doubled? Sure would be nice, but I haven't seen that confirmed - just repeated endlessly as a rumor.
I'm not upgrading because it's waay too much money to upgrade. It would cost me $699 to get one.
Im NOT upgrading i refuse to pay $ 699 and im not elegible any way but if i were i still not up grade i was hoping for a bigger screen for these iphone ill wait for nex year but im disapointed with Apple for the frist time in my life !!!
Jeremy: Thanks for the reply. When I checked it said they are happy to offer me the 3gs for $699.
I won't upgrade because I'm only less than halfway through my contract. I'll update on 2010 when I expect the newer iPhone to be available through different carrier(s).
To the people who are forced to pay $699, can I ask did you buy a iPhone 3G when it first came out? Or are you using another phone from AT&T?
@Moe, I am in the same boat as you. I highly doubt the form factor will remain the same when the next one is released and I hope its released on Verizon because it's obvious AT&T is screwing the pooch because they have zero competition and thus no incentive to roll out MMS, tethering, etc.
I think many of those who are unhappy aren't so because of the 3GS, but mostly AT&T's , network, customer service and pricing. The phone is great, but is it worth current 3G owners upgrading? Hopefully the planned upgrades by AT&T will answer that question. For new adopters probably it's any easier.
I don't think I'll be upgrading to iPhone 3GS this summer. I don't need a compass because I know where I'm going. I don't need Voice Control because I can control my phone with my finger. I don't need a video camera because my life is too boring and nothing exciting happens. I don't need the 3.0 megapixel camera because...(see why I don't need video). I rarely use my current camera on my iPhone 3G. I do want the OS 3.0 update. I could care less for MMS and tethering. Too much hype for it. I doubt it'll be used much.
Not upgrading! its simply not worth it, when my contract runs out in january then i will upgrade because i will need to renew my contract anyways, Im not in any kind of rush for the iphone 3GS. There is no reason why Voice control won't work on the 3G so i bet in a few weeks some genius will get the iphone 3GS firmware on the iphone 3G so we can have voice control!!
The only reason I'm not upgrading is the price in my country is very high, so my 3G will have to last until next year's new iPhone. Hopefully with even more processing power and ram! hehe
Not upgrading because : - The 3G speed is good enough for me. - The 3 MPx camera is still a very poor camera - The compass is unecessary - The TomTom GPS will work on 3G - The voice control is not really necessary
I will wait for an Iphone with: - multitask background - good camera with optical zoom - front camera - 802.11n - FM receptor/transmissor - Digital Television - Oled screen
@Jeremy: I bought my 3g on release day for the un-subsidized price of $499. Looking back, since I paid full price AT&T should not have extended my contract but maybe they get me on that through activation / upgrade fees.
I love my iphone ... but ATT should give you the friggin' phone... they make it up on fees anyway.... its a crock!
sigh these comments are making me be swayed both ways....some ppl say its the best thing ever while others say its a waste of money...Heres my situation:
My current phone I have as a 'favour' to my sister, she wasnt done her plan but got a new phone/contract, so Im using hers until its over, or until I dont want it anymore, I have had my eye on the iphone but I thought it would be useless cause I have a phone and an ipod touch, but my phone is crap (like really crappy
) and my ipod touch is nomore.
So, heres what Im asking: Do you guys think it would be a good idea for me to purchase the 16Gb 3GS? or not? my sisters contract ends in the fall, so either way I NEED to get a new phone, so sooner would be better than later...(should I wait for next release? and go a few months without a cell? - not sure I can do that)
or should I just buy a new ipod touch and get a regular cell?
any advice would be good! P.S. I live in Canada, so I would be using Rogers
@Jeremy Sikora
Nope, they still make less then a percent of it as I've posted before. Therefore looks weren't a BIG deal although you claimed it was.
Please, just stop. It looks like you're working for Apple now and all you were trying to do is justify yourself, EPIC FAIL.
I've been sitting on the iPhone sidelines until now - and just ordered my "delivered to your door on the 19th" 32GB 3GS from the apple store. I'll also be replacing my wife's BB Curve with the 16GB 3GS after I figure out "best practices" and can teach her to use it, and then will be adding an 8GB for my son's dying razr - all by mid July.
For me, this is now a mature enough product with plenty of apps for everyone. Had I jumped at the 3G initially I wouldn't upgrade now either. But, I've been off contract with AT&T for almost three years and have never used a smartphone. The iPhone is just too compelling for me now. You know why? Autofocus, video (if you have kids, a camcorder everywhere you go makes a tons of sense), copy/paste, spotlight, 32GB, and most importantly APPS out the wazoo for everything I need. And not to mention the whole iPod function, that there is an app for controlling my XBMC machine with it, and on and on and on.
I think apple will add a bunch of new users to its existing base with this version, convert original users to 3GS, and leave existing 3G users happy until next year's release.
People, People, ATT sucks they can't handle 3G so why upgrade when you won't get what you pay for?, I'm going to wait for the LTE version of the phone in 2010 when ATT rollout the LTE network maybe then we get the speed and maybe iChat in the iPhone.
I'm upgrading from a first gen iPhone (which I love) to a 3G S. The improvements make it worth it, finally. I actually prefer the design of the original iPhone to the look of the 3G/3G S, but video, the speed improvement, copy-paste (at last!) tethering (if/when I can ever take advantage of that), etc. all make it worth it.
Also, my first gen phone has a permanent bright pixel, rattles like a wheezing lung on vibrate mode and was dropped into oatmeal. It is time.
!!!M E H!!!
@Frank, thanks for the link, I just found 6 replies in that link alone of people complaining about the look! Thanks again!
Will be getting one this time round, never had one before as I didn't beleive the 3g incarnation was good enough (too much missing). Most of these things have now been addressed which now make it a very desirable handset over here in Blighty.
Especially as O2 have MMS, tethering and HDSPA already up and running at launch.
I've always had the 'latest' top of the range handsets with all the gadgets and the 3g did not live up to my expectations, the 3g S looks to be a good choice now.
3MP may not be huge but it's not always that bigger is better! Software also helps to make the picture, my 5MP Blokia takes worse pictures than an old stand alone 3MP Fuji and my 10MP Panny doesn't make the prints exceptionally spectacular when printed on 6 x 4. For standard prints 3MP is fine, 5 would be better but 3 is adequate.
So, yes, I'll be camping outside the O2 store on the 18th!
I paid full price for my 3G 16GB ($499) back in July 2008 because they said I was eligible for an upgrade until October 2008. Now AT&T's site says I can not upgrade until October 2009.............Confused????
I'm paying "reduced" full retail $499 to go from a 3G to a 3Gs 32GB. I will ebay my old phone to recoup about half that. The speed improvement really really matters to me. It's like upgrading from a Pentium 4 to a Quad Core. I heavily use my phone for both business and fun, and I will certainly benefit from the increased speed, and enjoy all the other features too. My current 3G is a little laggy, and the snappiness of the new version will be a very welcome improvement.
Having paid $499 for the original iPhone 2G, I’m glad that I will be able to upgrade to the 3.0 OS and keep the original $20 AT&T data plan. Both the 3G and the 3GS are nice but are not enough for me to upgrade after paying full price on the original. The faster speeds are relative. I will wait, yet again, to see what the next version of iPhone hardware will have to offer.
Allthough, if AT&T were to lower the cost of the data plan and have some kind of trade-in program for those who didn't take advantage of the 3G discount for 2G owners, I would reconsider.
I wonder how many other users out there are thinking about not upgrading just yet and keeping their original 2G like me.
Any thoughts on the 16 vs 32 choice? Are current 16Gb users running short on space. Will the new video capture make a big difference here?
@Zahra
It's up to you. See if anyone that you know in your area has had good experience with their 3G iPhone. If their experience is good, I say go ahead and get the new one. If not, I'd wait and see what they have next year.
I say if you don't have a 3G already, go for it. Otherwise, it's not worth the upgrade to me, but again... that's just me.
I'm upgrading. I'll be getting the 16GB for $400. The iPhone 3G is a little too slow for me. I'm hoping I'll like the extra speed. And while only 3MP camera. It's not about megapixels. 3 is fine for my photagraphy. It's about it being a better camera with auto focus. And I really always wanted video recording from day 1. Now I'll finally have it.
All of the hardware improvements answer most of my complaints about iPhone 3G that aren't addressed in software.
I usually upgrade my phones about once a year anyway (and pay early upgrade fees every other time) and this is really par for the course with me.
@Steam, it's really up to you and your own needs. If you love having all of your music/videos with you - then go with a 32GB. If you don't have a lot of media go with the 16GB.
I'm not upgrading I'll wait till next year to upgrade. I think apple doesn't want to put all their hard work in this device because it's with AT&T I think next year with a different carrier they will go all out. And then we will see matte finish and glwing apple logos.
Not getting one because I'm not up for renewal. I got my iPhone 3G in August. AT&T says I can upgrade January 18th, 2010. I will most likely hold off until the 4th gen iPhone.
As someone mentioned above, I'm hoping someone figures out how to enable the 3GS only features on the 3G.
Not.
•3 megapixel camera with capability to record VGA resolution video at 30 FPS No need for it - I can record at 15 fps now and rarely will •7.2 HSDPA (up to twice as fast as 3G) No network support yet and this doesn't require new hardware, should be supported in the 3.0 firmware •Improved battery performance No need - All indications are that this is a firmware fix not hardware - the published comparison is against a pre-production 3G unit from last year! •Faster processors -nice to have not have to have •Double the amount of RAM -as above, and also not verified as per previous posts •Up to double the storage capacity (32GB) I'll just get this next summer at the $199 price when I'll be fully eligible for a discounted upgrade along with all of next year's goodies...
The price cut by Apple is a big marketing gimmick which annoys everyone. They need not do that. ATT prices at $700 and in UK O2 prices the 16 gig 3GS one at £440. Looks like $99 price is only for Paul and Steve. I am a Apple fan, still this puts me off
@Jeremy Sikora
Yes, 6 posts divided by 95 posts is? 0.06.
Like I have stated before, less than a percent. That must be a big deal.
Thank you for proving me right again.
Those who do cannot listen (in this care read carefully), cannot write.
Thanks Jeremy, This will be my first iPhone/iPod, so I've never had the option of carrying media with me. I guess I'd better take stock on my home computer to see what on there is travel worthy.
Not a significant speed increase!?!? So if Intel came out and said they have a new CPU that is 2 - 3 times faster you would pass? Also the camera although only 1MP higher has auto focus. A 10MP camera without focus is about as useless as a .3MP camera without focus. Face it guys, the phone is an improvement. The compass is also critical for nav systems. GPS only knows your direction when your moving. Most likely TomTom requested Apple add the compass.
For me the most notable is the CPU speed and the auto focus camera. I don't carry around a backpack full of geekware so I don't have a real digicam or video cam on hand at all times. My 2.5year old son doesn't schedule his candid moments with me so I have to settle for the fussy cam (3G) sometimes.
I'ts not that i'm dissapointed, but my contracts not quite up yet. When it is ready for an upgrade i think i'll wait for next years release, rather than being stuck with only a slightly better one for another 18 months. I think next years release will yeald a better model with the likes of oled screens and even more memory.
I do like the new features, but for the ones temporeoly stuck in contracts we're not missing much. This is were Iphone 2g owners upgrade and Iphone 3g owners stick it out for 3-6 months at the end of there contracts next year to get the 4th gen iphone. I've had mine about twelve months, i use a juice pack air to cover battery life, so that to me leaves little else. A faster iphone at the moment just doesn't scream upgrade.
Although the compass might come in handy when i'm drunk and lost...LOL
I'm not upgrading becuase I do not feel there are enough benefits that fit my lifestyle.
Why I am NOT upgrading: * 3 megapixel camera with capability to record VGA resolution video at 30 FPS: Nice add on but still nothing great on a cellphone. Jailbreak and you can get video recording. * 7.2 HSDPA (up to twice as fast as 3G): Bar far the best addition but AT&T has not provisioned the entire network yet so this is useless in some areas. * Improved battery performance: First off I'm waiting for the review on battery life before I make any judgments. I'll stick with my Mophie juicepack air. * Faster processors: Yea we have heard its faster by 2x but where are the processor specs? Why hasn't Apple released this information yet? * Double the amount of RAM: Same comment, how much RAM does it have? * Up to double the storage capacity (32GB): I have 3GB left on my 16GB, do I really need 32GB?
Also, Nike +, Compass big deal. I will wait until next years iPhone as one year in technology will bring a whole new lineup of needs and wants (OLED?)
@Frank - go back to school...that's 6%, not 1%.
Typo on my part
@Frank, that was in the link you provided only... nice effort though. Feel free to browse the forums yourself to find a more, they are there sir. Also keep in mind, it's just not in the forums. Have a nice day!
Sure, a typo saying the same thing more than once...
@Steam, not a problem. Enjoy the phone!
@Jeremey Sikora
Please site your sources. Where did it say double the Ram? Makes you wonder why that fact was missing from their bullet points. Maybe they really don't have any memory upgrades at all. And the 2X faster device speed, yeah I call that marketing Bullshit.
@uwsteve
What is the point in getting a 3GS when you live in an area with no 3g. Actually what is the point in getting an Iphone at all if you don't have 3g coverage. That is the point of the device: to take advantage of highspeed mobile broadband in order to drive features like Safari, GPS, Streaming video and music, and email.
What you're doing is akin to buying a $2000 HDTV to watch basic cable. It makes no sense.
@Frank: Don't worry, we've all made that typ0.0 before.
I upgraded from 16GB Black 3G to 16GB Black 3Gs. I still had a year left on my ATT agreement, so i only got a 100 off the price with a new 2 year contract, making it $399 for the new phone +tax. Then within 2 minutes i sold my 3G on ebay for $450. No brainer to me. Why not upgrade? It's like trading it evenly with an extra year added to my contract. I even made about 20 bucks.
hey...i dont live in america...where i live, my carrier only requires 1 year contract, but the price is much more expensive than america. I have never had an iphone and i would like to know if i should get the Iphone 3GS or wait for next year and see what apple releases please reply..thanks
Just got back from the AT&T store are preordered my black 32gb. I couldn't be more excited. I love the iPhone 3g. I do wish they would have changed the back because I'm not really a big fan of it, but to think that this phone is going to be that much faster and I can now have a video camera just blows me away. It truly is every device I could need all rapped into one. Simply amazing.
yeah I am going to move to the 32GB 3Gs from 16GB 3G. wasn't an easy choice, but I made it. At least Apple didn't make us wait in line this year...
I sold my 3G iphone and bought a 8GB N95. Why ? 5mp camera (with flash), with ability to shoot video. Background applications. Turn by Turn navigation from Tom tom and Garmin. 3.5G on the ATT network (definitely faster than the current 3G iphone) physical keyboard.
There is no way that I would uprade to this sad excuse of an upgrade. Let;s wait a year and see what Apple have to offer, or see where the Palm Pre is after a few software updates.
From WWDC keynote...
http://theappleblog.com/2009/06/08/iphone-3g-s-a-breakdown-of-whats-new/
RAM increased from 128MB to 256MB. This is nice, as many apps were memory-constrained. Should be less crashing now.
I wouldn't be surprised at all if memory did get doubled. The current iPhone has what a 400Mhz CPU and the new one was said to have a 700Mhz CPU. That isn't double the speed so they had to gain speed somewhere else. If they doubled the RAM then they wouldn't have to swap to the slow flash memory as much which would have a massive effect on speed. But this is all speculation based on rumors. We will have to wait for the facts I guess.
I think I'll hold off upgrading until the next iPhone, which I assume will be next summer. I would like to take advantage of the new features, they all sound great - but not quite great enough for the cost. I really can't justify buying a new phone year... Every two years? That I can get behind.
I think what I will do since I can upgrade once per year is buy the $99 Iphone 3g and sell my old Iphone 3g unlocked for $400.
$300 profit.
This is a HUGE update for all of us with iPhone Original!!!
Because AT&T boosted the plans for iPhone 3G when it was introduced, those of us with multiple iPhone Originals on family plans payed less over the two year life of our contract than iPhone 3G Customers, despite having shelled out $600 on launch day. I've loved my phone for the last two years but now that my contract is up at the end of this month I am soooo ready to upgrade!!!
Off topic but...
what i don't get is if you guys in America have AT&T wrattling on about there being to much usage on the 3g coverage, stopping tethering and such. Does a twice as fast Iphone even hit the mark. Don't get me wrong, i am dug in with the Iphone but i'm with O2 so everythings cool this side. But of what i read on here, AT&T only seem to persecute the Iphone owners. Whats the point in upgrading from 3g to 3gs without dedcent coverage, or with the coverage, your supplier putting restrictions on how you use it. Like i said, just wondering
I've have a first generation iPhone for almost 2 years and (like zsumoz) have always loved it, but am intrigued by some of the new features and functionality rolling out with the 3GS.
My concern: When the 3G came out I didn't feel the new features were enough to convince me to upgrade...I thought every other iPhone would be good enough for me. I have PERFECT reception/coverage with my old phone and have heard that the 3G network wasn't all it was cracked up to be, and that coverage suffered with the 3G.
I'm considering purchasing the 3GS, but am concerned about what I might be losing in the deal. Is this valid, or am I crazy? HELP!
4Gb - probably not enough space since it was removed from the line-up pretty quickly.
8Gb - Must be enough for some people since it's being carried forward. Perhaps this is the crowd that doesn't use it as an iPod replacement and uses mostly network resources.
16Gb - Top of the line up until a few days ago (for apple anyway). I haven't heard of too many "I ran out of space" complaints.
32Gb - Assuming the phone will only be in use for 2years (3 max), is this a waste of an extra $100? That's my only question right now. Of course this depends on individual usage, but $100 could help subsidize the 4g purchase in a couple of years... Thoughts?
After 8 years with AT&T/Cingular and still having them tell me that they won't give me a discount, I'm going to skip it based on price. They won't come down from $600... so I won't buy it.
Blu-ray didn't blow me away. I guess if you were sitting really close to a really large TV it would make a difference....
IF I WAS ELIGIBLE FOR UPGRADE PRICE - I would STILL NOT UPGRADE.
Why: Because I don't want to be locked into this phone even at upgrade prices for two years (3 in Canada).
Apple can not release minimal upgrades like this (and yes Jeremy, they are MINIMAL), and expect to be in the lead for long.
So in a year, Palm or Android will assume the leadership position - OR - (more likely) Apple will step up to the plate with something vastly more compelling.
These new features in the 3Gs are not worth the initial price Plus the ETF next year when a more compelling upgrade comes along.
So far we have seen nothing but feature creep, about what you expect from any smart phone, faster, bigger. Incremental changes at best. Nothing truly New and useful for the general user.
How many Apple plans were shot down by the Carriers? (No, we will not support iChat, or Skype, No you can not game across 3G, No you can't watch high quality video on 3G). Did Apple decide, late in the game to just hold these cool features back till a faster network exists?
Or is Apple holding back the good stuff till they get their OWN processor designed with the industry purchases they recently made so as to keep costs down?
Or perhaps, (as I half suspect) Apple's creative geniuses are running on fumes. They have shot their best shot and are running up against the limits of their creativity even before exhausting the platform.
If Jeremy is as impressed with these minimal changes as he seems to say, more power to him. Its his money.
I've got my money betting on something better in the future. I'm skipping the 3Gs.
@Steam
This website below is about as credible as Karl Rove and Rush Limbaugh.
http://theappleblog.com/2009/06/08/iphone-3g-s-a-breakdown-of-whats-new/
Apple has not released any information on RAM.
I think the device still has 128MB ram, and I say this because what would be the reason for the bump. Apple hasn't come up with a true multitasking UI for the Iphone.
So I believe you'll have 128MB of Ram, A faster processor to close and open your one app at a time "2X faster", and push notifications.
If I was not already a "happy" at&t customer, I would JUMP at the chance to get the iPhone 3Gs.
BUT...
I AM a customer, and I HAVE to buy a new iPhone 3Gs at the $599 / $699 cost (unless u all know something that I don't at the moment).
Having said that, let's review the additions and see if it is worth the cost.
3 megapixel camera with capability to record VGA resolution video at 30 FPS - Ok, i'll give you that one.
7.2 HSDPA (up to twice as fast as 3G) - That is if the 3G network works consistently. and with faster speeds comes more bottleneck. So, I am (as they say), "hurrying up and waiting"
Improved battery performance - I already have my Mophie battery pack, so this is a non-issue
Faster processors - I'll give you that
Double the amount of RAM - well, since I can't multitask, who cares?? Well, hehe I do jailbreak and multitask, so I'll give you that one for me, not for the general public.
Up to double the storage capacity (32GB) - Again, Who cares???? for the BIG files, like music and videos, I stream my music with Simplify, I watch my vidoes via ORB, I wtch TV via SlingPlayer (on 3G I might add, since I am jailbroken). Picures I use Box.net or DarkSlide. So who needs storage??? Just for Apps. I don't use more than 8 Gig for Apps.
So having said that, Apple is asking $599 - $699 for a faster processor and camera. Of and you forgot the Digital Compass (BIG Deal). Now from my prespective, it is NOT worth it to upgrade.
P.S. There are apps in the appstore to do Voice Commands. If you are jailbroken, you can do Video recording.
So even those apps are a non-starter.
I'll gladly upgrade to 3.0 (for free) AFTER we can jailbrake that version.
Thanks for listening.
Mike
Is there any where that confirms the amount of increased RAM and new processor speed? I don't even know what the processor speed of the iPhone 3G was.
I'm not really interested in the iPhone 3Gs but by July when things calm down and if it really is proven to be much faster and handle bigger games better then I may just look for one on ebay or something.
No rush now though, 3.0 OS will keep me plenty happy until things settle out.
if i could get the discounted rate I probably would, all I really want is video, I'll jailbreak for that, I'm happy it looks the same, doesn't make the iphone 3g seem outdated, no one will be able to tell the difference
I'm upgrading regardless. It might not be on the 19th but I'm getting the new phone. I did sort of care about looks as well. I expected them to have a device that differentiated it self from the previous model as they did the the 2G and 3G.
The main reason why I'm upgrading is mainly
32GB of space - I HAVE to have atleast 30. I went from a 3/4th filled iPod Video 30GB to a 16GB iPhone last october --- devastating. However, I needed to get away from my Blackjack II ( worst phone ever created )
Faster Overall ! - That is really important because I've always felt that the phone transitioned slowly. I hope the accelerometer is faster as well.
Compass - IDK about you but I use the Maps frequently and for the times when i AM lost a compass will come in handy. This is a feature I have heavily requested from Apple to implement into the iPhone.
Camera - The 2.0mp i have now isn't THAT bad but the new 3.2 camera is better in the end. Also video recording.
In conclusion, I'm def getting this phone no matter what. I'm also getting a stereo bluetooth headset as well.
"Sadly we live in a world that has major hang ups on looks and status. Sure Apple could have changed the glossy back to a matte finish. Or perhaps they could have done away with the chrome bezel and raised the phones headset speaker up a bit, etc… "
EXACTLY !!! That's exactly what I thought ! I was also disappointed but realized this after wards. Sony did what apple didn't in this situation with the PSPgo.
The next thing I’ve been hearing an awful lot is “there are not enough updates to warrant me upgrading” or “I expected a lot more from Apple”. I think that too many people expect Apple to revolutionize the cell phone market every year with an entirely new iPhone. Wake up call — it’s not going to happen!
Another great point. I also felt this way entirely.
Personally the iPhone is a complete POS when it comes to being an iPod. The slid bar (even with the improved scrubbing that 3.0 adds) sucks for moving around long tracks while trying to drive. The click wheel is far superior. I can do many functions on the iPod without even looking at the screen. I don't plan on giving up my iPod any time soon. So for me 8GB is plenty.
I can definitely vouch for the the author. A lot of it has to do about looks and I'm a manager for AT&T. That's all I hear. Someone that wasn't very bright about 30 minutes ago said, "It's the same thing, but better." What he meant was he doesn't care about the performance as much as the looks. Ask most reps in the store, they will say that they hear that a lot. A lot of users wanted: Thinner, different colors or even a slide out keyboard.
In response to the author... those points above is the main reason I am getting the iPhone. Improved 3MP camera + video, faster everything including: browsing and application load times.
Oh you forgot one improvement on the 3GS. The packaging is reduced 23%. So when you buy the new phone you will add 100 years to our planet and help Apple make more money from the reduced packaging costs and reduced freight costs on that slow boat from China. And you can brag to all your friends that the new iPhone is green Yippee.
@ sting7k
Apple is just like Nintendo they don't want to go on show full specs because it will show how overpriced and still outdated their hardware is.
As a matter of fact the OS is looking really outdated and frankly childish. Time for a new UI Apple. And can we please get a REAL DOCK. The little preforated Chrome crap is useless. Make it do something. Turn it into a sliding lauching, damn...
im not upgrading because the new features do not justify the cost to me. the camera i could care less about, they could make it a 10mp camera it wouldn't matter, the most important part of the camera is the lens. and if they ever put a decent lens in a cell phone i sure wouldn't want that phone ! its faster sure thats nice, but mine is fast enough for my needs. longer battery life is nice to, but i get by just fine on the current one. as far as the network speed boost at&t is so slow at deploying any upgrades by the time it reaches me we will be 4 phones beyond this one !
The 3GS adds OpenGL support. So games should improve but I could care less about games. Many people do though.
For those that are upgrading from 3g to 3GS, will we have to replace any SIM card or anything? Any thoughts?
I'm now addicted to multi-tasking with Backgrounder. If the new device can be jailbroken, or if Apple permits multi-tasking, I'm upgrading. If not, I think I'm better off with my jailbroken 3G.
@mike...I am sure they will be able to jailbreak...eventually
@Mike
multitasking is huge, is was a major disappointment that the did not address that.
@Duvi:
Big surprise, there, Duvi.
You are paying HOW MUCH for that upgrade?
As soon as I heard 2x faster I was sold. The HSPA 7.2 network sold me as well. Also I am sure Apple is going to come with some bigger updates down the line that the iPhone 3g simply will not be able to handle (ie Video Recording). Maybe we will get some kind of multi tasking later on with the 3Gs because it seems like it can handle it.
I agree with the bullet list except for the following: 7.2 HSDPA (up to twice as fast as 3G) If you live in the US this isn't really a selling point as at&t isn't ready for this yet and even when they say they are most people probably won't even get close to breaking 1.5mbps
Improved battery performance Except for the thing people use the most, 3G, thanks Apple
Double the amount of RAM This is probably true, but until someone does a tear down or Apple lets us know what's in it we just don't know yet.
Wow, u guys r RICH!
U'll spend $600 - $700 for a small reward (speed and camera).
Do you guys really think your iPhone 3G is that slow as to upgrade? I mean, I run Simplify in the background and maybe surf the net or use the map. I don't think it is unbearably slow. And that is u r multitasking. If not it should be even faster.
Now, If I could upgrade for the upgrade price and restart my contract again (meaning 1 year longer to tough it out with at&t), THAT I might consider.
at&t did that last year with upgrading from 2G to 3G. Anyone think they will do that again this year?
@Icebike, if it matters - I'm paying $499 but... sold my current 3G to a T-Mobile user for $400.
Comaring the difference in speed of the internet so nothing like comaring dvd to blu-ray. Two different technologies that provide a different picture. Not related to speed. A better comparison would be DSL Lite to DSL extreme.
@ Duvi
When you get your 3GS it will browse at the same speed as your 3g now.