iPhone 3G: Our Review

As we already mentioned it, the iPhone 3G will not be available in France before July 17th, so we got our sample from Belgium where the law forces Mobistar to offer it as a subscription-free device. We decided to queue with other consumers in front of an APR, Macline, and due to shortage only the "White" 16 GB model was available.

We then tested the 3G model with the first generation iPhone:


Once activated, both model worked flawlessly with both SFR and Orange SIM cards. Having an SIM unlocked iPhone makes it possible to choose you carrier, as well as using pre-paid SIM card when you are visiting other countries for business or holidays; avoiding roaming costs.
Hereafter is the iPhone first generation on the right, while the new 3G model is on the left.


When looking at them on the display side, both models look almost identical, the main difference is located on the backside. The first generation iPhone features an aluminum-type case which is more than appealing, while the 3G looks a bit "cheap" with its white or black plastic back case, the only advantage is to be less sensitive to finger prints.
The new 3G model also feature a more rounded back side, making the iPhone easier to hold in hands, however, it makes it although less stable when having it lying horizontally on a table and entering text with the virtual keyboard. Depending how you type the iPhone can move or even rock...
We then conducted couple of simple tests, especially to evaluate the new functions:
- 3G: as we already posted about it, it really changes the experience of web browsing and emailing with the iPhone, so far the signal strength is good enough (3G: 150 KB/s vs. EDGE: 15.5 KB/s tested data transfer speed)
- GPS: we could only test it in Paris where the geolocalization feature available with the iPhone first generation was already working perfectly thanks to Wi-Fi hotspots. As the iPhone does not include integrated maps, you will have to download them, and better while you still have access to an ADSL connection. The iPhone 3G starts to positioning process with Wi-Fi hotspots when available, then get satellite data, and your location appears as a flashing dot on the map, evolving in real time while you are moving.
- The iPhone 3G supports all headset without the need of an adaptor.
- One can get a call while using the data network, something impossible with the first model (due to EDGE limited bandwidth).
Last but not least, the key question for many owners of the first generation iPhone: Is it worth dropping the first generation iPhone to the new 3G model?
Honestly, 90 % of the new features and functions are directly inherited from the firmware 2.0, which is available on both models. The question should then be only restricted to the true needs of the new technical features (see above): true GPS and 3G. If you do not use them regularly, or were not desperately missing them with the first generation iPhone, then no need to buy the new model. Of course, if as many of us you were waiting for the iPhone update, which will bring GPS and 3G supports, then do not wait any longer, and run to get one. For practical reason, it would also be nice for customers to get iPhone as SIM unlocked to let them choose their carriers...