The Apple iPhone was announced in 2007, creating a firestorm of consumer anticipation. It has gone on to become one of the most popular inventions of the early 21st century; there are currently millions of iPhone users around the world, including people across a complete range of demographics.
iPhone Models
The original iPhone has undergone a pair of facelifts. In June of 2008, the iPhone 3G was released, taking advantage of Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) technology and featuring a 3.6 megabyte High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) protocol.
Then, a year later, the iPhone 3GS appeared. The iPhone 3GS delivered improved overall performance, thanks to the state-of-the-art iPhone OS 3.0 operating system. This version also includes a higher-resolution camera and video recorder/player as well as voice control capability.
The iPhone price has also come down, as the technologies which power it become more affordable to manufacture and use. In addition, some retailers are advertising unlocked iPhones, which allow you to get online using a broader range of networks.
Features and Applications
The iPhone is loaded with features. Apple claims the iPhone is like three devices in one; it serves as a high-performance mobile telephone, a widescreen iPod which supports music, video, television programming and games, and a fast Internet device which can harness both 3G and WiFi technologies to connect you to the Web.
Thousands of iPhone applications are available, which can be downloaded directly onto your phone from Apple's App Store. Users have to pay to license these applications, as many of them are provided by third-party software developers.
However, there is a default set of applications that come with every new iPhone, including full cell phone capability, iPod music and video playback, a Safari Web browser, email access, video recording, photo applications, voice control, messaging functions, maps, a full keyboard, cut, copy and paste features, voice memos, a Web search button, and more.
iPhone Accessories
Among the most popular accessories you can buy, either directly from the manufacturer or from an Apple iPhone wholesaler, include a variety of carrying cases and pouches, stereo ear buds, audio extension cables, a hands-free car kit, card readers, car chargers and neck straps.