Apple iPhone: Top 5 criticisms
We've shared the iPhone's top 5 features (what, only 5?) so it seems only fair to address some of the criticisms levelled at the iPhone.
1. Lockdown
Despite running a version of OS X, Steve Jobs has told the press that the iPhone will be a closed platform. It was exciting when we thought we could put all our OS X software goodies on the device, but apparently that isn't going to happen. "Cingular doesn't want to see their West Coast network go down because some application messed up," he told Newsweek.
Despite this, there are sure to be sanctioned third-party applications available in due course, and I'm sure there'll be some hacks, too.
2. No 3G
This is a killer for many people, particularly outside the US. Whilst a second generation of iPhone could feature 3G, omitting it from the start may make it unattractive to anyone wanting high-speed Net access on the move. Wi-fi isn't everywhere and we're more accustomed to widespread 3G in the UK and Europe. Though Steve mentioned the elusive 3G in his keynote, it's not a feature yet, and with an apparent exclusive tie-in to Cingular (in the States) until at least 2009, things could move very slowly on this one.
3. Poor camera spec
A 2 megapixel camera, even on a mobile phone, is pretty paltry these days. It's an easy one to upgrade in future models, but it still seems a little stingy. It's a spec already whipped by cheaper phones from most other manufacturers. With the iPhone touted as an all-in-one device, the camera needs to improve.
4. Battery life
The iPhone's battery life is something that has to improve if users are to enjoy all of its features on the move without being forced to recharge it 2 or 3 times a day. 5 hours talk/video time is pretty pathetic, added to the fact that these batteries look like they're 'locked in' (a la iPod) - so carrying round a spare and swapping it out isn't a possibility.
5. Price
Yes it's a premium Apple product, but the price is going to deter even some of the most ardent Apple fans, letalone the average consumer. Unlocked versions, if they ever materialise, could cost even more. And what about the replacement cost? Presumably the iPhone, as it comes on contract, is already subsidised? A price cut will really help sales.
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