Changes to the new Apple iPhone with 3G

Phone | Thursday 18th Sept 2008

Of course, the big change with Apple's iPhone is an upgrade to 3G. Actually, Apple have added HSDPA (3.5G) which is an even faster form of internet access. The added benefit of 3G is that you are now free to roam in areas with no GSM (Japan) network.

Elsewhere Apple have added GPS, which is another huge feather in the cap for this new device. GPS (Global Positioning System) is a much more accurate form of pinpointing a person's location and enables the iPhone to act as a satellite-navigation system (in-car or on foot). The only disappointment is that GPS on the iPhone for the moment only works with Google maps and as such has no voice support.

New built-in apps include an eBay application, which can keep track of auctions and bids. Sega's Super Monkey Ball game has been included through which characters are controlled by tilting and moving the iPhone. There is also a useful scientific calculator.

Through its software upgrade to 2.0, the more technical among you will be glad to hear that the new iPhone supports Microsoft Exchange. This enables you to synchronize your outlook emails, contacts and calendar entries over the air. Microsoft Office documents can be viewed, but disappointingly, not edited.

Cosmetically, a plastic casing replaces the metal one. Corners are more rounded, giving the new iPhone a sleeker look even though it is no thinner than the old model. The headphone port is no longer recessed and as such can be used with any 3.5mm plugs.

For some of you, the most important change will be the new pricing structure. The iPhone 3G is available to buy from Apple, O2 or Carphone Warehouse at much more favourable rates than the old model. You can buy it on a monthly contract from as little as £30 a month for the 8GB model. The iPhone 3G is available for free on a £45 a month contract. There is likely to be a pay-as-you-go option that Apple have not yet announced.