Stop Press: iPhone DOES Raise Bar For Mobiles
Well, the first reports are in. While it’s not perfect, the initial conclusions are that the iPhone does raise the bar for mobile handsets. As I said the day that the first iPhone was announced, it looked like it might be a game changer. Of course, it’s not perfect. The lack of true third-pary applications support is a massive problem - there are some amazing Java ME and native applications being released for mobiles these days; and the iPhone can’t be part of that revolution. However, if you want the “Internet in your pocket”, and you currently use an iPod for audio and video, then the iPhone could well be the phone for you.
Anyway, here’s the first independent hands on review, from the Wall Street Journal’s Walt Mossberg. The most important thing he says is that the iPhone virtual keyboard works as well as any keypad on any mobile device. You just need to get used to it.
You can also read Walt’s review in the WSJ.
Asam Bashir wrote:
Yep, there’s a new video on apple.com,
http://www.apple.com/iphone/usingiphone/keyboard.html
I don’t think scratches will be an issue either, apart from a tougher glass plate, I’ve just noticed an otherwise hidden but emerging market. I’ve come across come sellers in ebay who will sell you any OEM part for most popular phone. They’re not cheap tacky covers but original equipment, and for prices that are actually cheaper then most phone cases/covers. For example, I found original cases and keyboard for a few pounds for my old T68 and T610. Apart from the circuit boards they are effectually brand new, it’s like transplanting an engine from an old car to a brand new body. I’m sure this is popular in the third-world where they’re more aware of these things, but as main stream consumers become aware you can buy these things in places like ebay, I’m sure they’ll sell a huge amount. Why does anyone need a case for any phone, if it gets scratched you just buy a brand new case.
In the same way, I’m sure an OEM replacement chasis will be available for the iPhone.
Think it’s still an market that’s a long way from reaching it’s potential. If everyone buys at least one replacement chassis for an average phone being use for 2 years, that’s at least a $5 x 3 billion market opportunity.
Posted 27 Jun 2007 at 10:23 pm ¶