The iPhone 3G: What you need to know

The iPhone 3G is on everybody’s mind, so we’re here to answer some of the burning questions about the next version of Apple’s popular smartphone.

iPhone 3G review

It's hard to think of any other device that's enjoyed the level of exposure and hype that Apple found in the launch of the first iPhone. Who could forget it? Everyone got to be a gadget nerd for a day; even those completely disinterested in technology seemed to come down with iPhone fever. But the original device was still far from perfect: its limited capabilities (especially in the 3G department), high price of entry, and the small number of countries in which it was available kept many potential buyers sidelined. Until now -- or so Apple hopes. The wireless industry is a notoriously tough nut to crack, and it's become pretty clear that the first iPhone wasn't about total domination so much as priming the market and making a good first impression with some very dissatisfied cellphone users. With the iPhone 3G, though, Apple's playing for keeps. Not only is this iPhone's Exchange enterprise support aiming straight for the heart of the business market, but the long-awaited 3rd party application support and App Store means it's no longer just a device, but a viable computing platform. And its 3G network compatibility finally makes the iPhone welcome the world over, especially after Cupertino decided to ditch its non-traditional carrier partnerships in favor of dropping the handset price dramatically. $200? We're still a little stunned. So now that Apple finally stands poised for an all out war on cellphone-makers everywhere, will the iPhone 3G stand up to the competition -- and higher expectations than ever? Read on for our full review. Gallery: iPhone 3G review - hardwareContinue reading iPhone 3G reviewPermalink | Email this | Comments

Review: iPhone 3G

Existing iPhone owners will probably find more excitement in the 2.0 software update than in this latest model. But those who were cautious and waited before buying the original iPhone have seen their patience rewarded by the features introduced in the iPhone 3G.

Will higher data plan costs hurt iPhone 3G sales?

Service plan rates for the iPhone 3G are higher than existing iPhone plans, and that’s causing some people to reconsider whether they’ll buy a new phone when it’s released next week. A pair of Macworld editors share their points of view.

iPhone 3G cases and accessories from Griffin

Section: iPhone + Communications, iPhone Accessories Griffin Technology, maker of all things iPod and iPhone, has announced the general availability of its protective cases and other accessories for the iPhone 3G. Griffin’s case offerings for iPhone 3G include Wave, Nu Form, Elan Form, Elan Clip, and Streamline. Other accessories available for iPhone 3G include TuneBuds, TuneBuds Mobile, SmartTalk and an array of connector cables. Wave for iPhone 3G - Wave for iPhone 3G features wave-shaped contours that overlap and interlock. The double-helix closure provides greater surface area to hold the case together, providing greater security and protection. Wave allows full access to the iPhone audio jack, volume controls, connectors and touchscreen. The form-fitting case protects with durable polycarbonate at all corners and is available in four interchangeable colors: black, blue, pink, or white. Nu Form with EasyDock for iPhone 3G - Nu Form is an impact-resistant, hard-shell case that protects the iPhone 3G in a slim, no-clip design. It includes a rigid, thin screen protector that guards against smudges, scratches and fingerprints, but doesn’t interfere with access to the touchscreen. Its EasyDock design makes Nu Form convenient to charge and is available in black or white. Elan Form with EasyDock for iPhone 3G - Elan Form is a hard-shell leather case that snaps snugly around the iPhone 3G and offers triple protection in a slim, no-clip design. It bonds top-grain leather to hard-shell polycarbonate material, encasing the iPhone in two layers of stylish protection. This new revision of Elan Form incorporates Griffin’s EasyDock design, allowing users to conveniently dock their iPhone without completely removing the case. Elan Form with EasyDock is available in pink or black. Elan Clip for iPhone 3G - Elan Clip is an elegant, genuine leather outer case wrapped around a durable polycarbonate shell. It features a belt clip that rotates 180 degrees so you can check your iPhone 3G without taking it off your belt. The clip also locks into an extended position so you can use it as a stand while watching movies. It can be used two ways: carry your iPhone face-in for maximum privacy and protection, or face-out for maximum convenience and access. Elan Clip comes with a static peel screen protector and a premium microfiber cleaning cloth. TuneBuds and TuneBuds Mobile - TuneBuds and TuneBuds Mobile offer great sound for iPhone 3G with crisp clear highs and powerful, deep bass. They fit the ear snugly with a selection of bud sizes and conform to the ear for maximum comfort. TuneBuds Mobile features a cord made of nylon braiding for strength, good looks and durability and offers Griffin’s new ControlMic, a high-sensitivity microphone and control module, which allows for total iPhone control for both iPod and voice call functionality. StereoConnect - StereoConnect is a simple, one-cable solution for iPod, iPhone, MP3 players and other devices that allows you to connect your iPhone 3G to a home entertainment system. It works with standard 1/8” (3.5mm) stereo-mini headphone or audio-out jacks. In addition, Griffin is also complementing the iPhone 3G experience with Elan Holster, Streamline, SmartTalk and SmartShare, as well as new apps for download such as its video poker game, 5 Card Touch. Images and prices are available at griffintechnology.com. Product [Griffin iPhone 3G Accessories] Full Story » | Written by Kirk Hiner for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

Notes from our experience activating iPhone 3G at Apple retail

We stood inline at a local Apple retail store early this morning to experience the first-day iPhone 3G launch and new activation process. What follows is a comprehensive set of notes covering the process for those customers who'll be picking up their...