Why I’m Not Getting the iPhone 4 (Yet), Sticking With 3GS
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The release of the iPhone 4 has garnered an excessive amount of media attention, as should any other new product invented by Steve Jobs. Thanks to my semi-addiction to tech gadgets (not to forget being a frequent reader of Gizmodo), the iPhone 4 has certainly gotten my attention as well.
I’ve never been the type to upgrade my phone every year. But, I’ve definitely suffered from a slight lifestyle inflation after obtaining steady income coming out of college. That’s why I’m contemplating whether or not I should upgrade my 3GS for an iPhone 4.
There are probably a bunch of others who are going through the same dilemma. In my case, I know it would be the smarter financial move to hold out on upgrading – if I couldn’t resist it, I may find myself repeating history. So, I broke down the goodies in an iPhone 4 so I could convince myself not to get it, yet.
The most notable new features of the iPhone 4 and my take on them:
- Facetime video calling. Being able to see the person you are speaking to seems like a great technological advancement for a smartphone. But, honestly, I don’t think I’ll be using Facetime religiously (or ever) unless more people I know gets an iPhone 4.
- Retina display. The screen sports such high definition that it’s pixels are undistinguishable to the naked eye. Nothing bad to say – I can always go for more better displays.
- iOS4. Multitasking. Folders. Improved email interface. Customizable looks. Bunch of other stuff. These improvements are lovely but they are now available on the 3GS too. It’s almost like getting a new phone.
- HD video recording. To me, this feature is the upgrade that I find most appealing. Again though, I don’t find myself using this often but it is great to have ready.
- 5-megapixel camera with LED flash. Ever since I bought a DSLR, I guess I’ve become a stickler when it comes to digital photography (even though I’m just an amateur). The upgrades to the camera mean nothing to me. The camera on the iPhone 3GS still satisfies the spontaneous moments that I use it for.
- The new look. Without a doubt, the iPhone 4 is the sexiest phone to ever exist on the face of the earth (for now). While I don’t intend to ever drop my phones, this one seems extremely fragile compared to previous models.
The No-iPhone-4-For-Me Rationale
I feel that the iPhone 4 is simply a prettier version of the 3GS that contains features which I won’t find myself using at all. With iOS4 fully compatible with the 3GS, I’ve practically been offered the same increased productivity and operating experience available on the iPhone 4.
Plus:
- It’ll cost me $399. Currently, I am not eligible for an upgrade since I got my iPhone 3GS last September. According to AT&T, my eligibility starts in April 2011 for the subsidized iPhone 4 pricing. Even if I sold my 16GB 3GS (going for roughly $220-$280 on eBay), I’ll still have to fork over $150 out-of-pocket.
- Apple may have a few bugs to fix. As with many new technologies, there are often bugs that end up affecting consumers despite many months of testing. In the case of the iPhone 4, there have been funky antenna issues that affect reception due to the way you hold the phone.
- There may be upgraded versions to come. Just like how Apple released the iPhone 3GS (up from the 3G), we could see Apple release a better version of the iPhone 4 next summer – which would coincide with the time when I’m eligible for an upgrade.
In my current situation, the right move is to wait it out. The cost-benefit analysis doesn’t justify paying such a hefty price for, what essentially is, a better looking phone. The tech aficionado in me wants to ditch the technicalities and just upgrade now but everything is indicating that I should wait in the sidelines.
(Photo credit: Yutaka Tsutano)
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