New iPhone Leaves Techies and Designers Unsure

Technology experts, designers and the average consumer have long anticipated the arrival of the newest installation to the iPhone family, number four. iPhone 4 has made impressive improvements to previous iPhone models while at the same time experiencing several design shortcomings. Below are a few examples of both for you to decide for yourself whether the iPhone 4 is a flop or a success.

It is evident that Apple wanted to make a splash with their new smart phone, as it boasts improvements to the operating system, camera, battery, memory and display. One of the most impressive improvements is a feature called Face Time, which allows for video chatting between two iPhone 4 users. Whether away on business, at the office or across the world, Apple has taken our ability to stay connected to the next level. Unfortunately for iPhone 4 users, this feature is only available when both participants are connected to Wi-Fi, making it very limiting. There are rumors that AT&T, the exclusive cellular provider of iPhone, will open their 3G network up for use with Face Time, but until this happens, users will have to find free wireless internet access if they hope to video chat with friends.

Another change made to the smart phone involves new body styling and material. Previous iPhones were backed with metal that scratched and dented easily. The 4 is totally manufactured in hard glass, like the screens of the previous editions and Apple believes that this glass body will resist damage more easily than metal or alloy. Unfortunately, many technology experts and designers believe this phone has serious potential to shatter if dropped on hard surfaces and warn users to purchase phone cases for protection. The 4 also boasts a larger battery that provides a longer life for the phone, and more memory for applications, photos and pictures. Even the operating system got a boost, now allowing for multitasking capabilities which was lacking from the previous iPhones.

One of the greatest concerns of the new smart phone involves its poor reception, which renowned magazine Consumer Report believes is caused by poor antennae placement. After testing the phone, the magazine cites the reception problem is caused when hands or fingers cover the ill placed wireless antennae located on the lower left side of the phone. Even as users are complaining of dropped calls and lost internet connections, Apple has yet to successfully address the issue.

So with strides in video chatting, operating systems, battery life and memory and shortfalls in reception and design features, Apple users are not sure whether they love or hate their newest smart phones.