iPhone 3GS
The iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS are available in Ireland and the UK. They can be bought from a Vodafone, 3 or O2 retail outlet or the Carphone Warehouse store. You can purchase a handset online from the Irish Apple Store.
About the iPhone:
The iPhone has three primary modules: phone, iPod and internet device. The iPhone connects through iTunes (on a Mac or PC), and will sync contacts, calendars, music, photos and videos. Users must sign up for contract with the chosen carrier, for example AT&T in the US and O2 in Ireland and the UK. However the monthly price plans include data, so the user can browse the web without worrying about their bill.
Applications built into the iPhone include a calendar, Google Maps, a full version of the Safari web browser, SMS messaging, YouTube, e-mail and photos applications. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi and selects a Wi-Fi network (when available) in preference to the 3G mobile signal.
The original iPhone model connected to the EDGE wireless data network, which is slower than 3G. However the second generation iPhone 3G, introduced in July 2008, came with 3G connection. The newest version, iPhone 4 also has 3G, but comes with a faster processor inside, and speeds up the functions on the phone.
Data is input using its touch sensitive screen, rather than plastic keys which are the norm on smart mobile phones. This has its advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, the phone looks much better than a Nokia or other mobile brands, Apple have built in a smart auto-correct feature if you tap the wrong virtual key, and for some apps, you can use the keyboard in landscape as well as portrait mode. On the negatives, the iPhone's lack of tactile keys means you may not be sure where you are touching. The iPhone is not as wide as a Blackberry and so using thumbs only may not be as easy for the seasoned user.
The App store application on the iPhone gives users access to over 250,000 applications.