I recently used an iPhone for the first time, and my reaction to the device was decidedly negative. Because I am a long-time and dedicated Blackberry user, you may not be surprised by my reaction – but I feel it is worth exploring why I dislike the device.
Let’s clear up the obvious question first – why have I never used an iPhone before, given that I live and work in the technology and Internet space ? The reason is simply that the device has never really featured in our core work. Yes – I am aware that it was a “game-changer”, yes, I am know that Apple has had unprecedented success with it. Our team has developed quite a number of iPhone apps during the course of the past year, and I have seen many demonstrations of the device’s capabilities. Quite a few SWAT staff members own and use iPhones regularly. And I have played around with iPhones in the past. However – I was recently given an iPhone 3G to use as a application test device (thanks @mcwneks) – and rather than look a gift horse in the mouth, I have started using the handset on a regular basis.
I was already reasonably familiar with the iPhone’s user interface – but what was new was having to deal with the device as an owner would. The very first thing I noticed was how heavy it is. Disconcertingly so, compared to my usual handset – an older model Blackberry Curve. Obviously I could never carry it in a shirt pocket.
The next disappointment was trying to insert a SIM card. It is virtually unbelievable that one has to use a tool, albeit a paperclip, to insert the card! Since this is not something one has to done with any frequency, I was still willing to forgive this small flaw.
But then came the deal-breaker – I connected to the local wireless network, and was faced with the iPhone’s keypad. I am a touch typist, and also a very fast typist on a Blackberry keyboard. It took me more than five minutes to correctly enter the network key. And then I attempted to create an account on the AppStore. After repeatedly (painfully) having to type in my username and password, and being informed that my account has not been activated (despite having clicked the email link to validate my account), it finally dawned on me that I have to install iTunes in order to validate my account.
My dislike of the iPhone stems from these two things:
In the first instance the very poor keyboard interface – I dread having to enter any text in the device. As a business user, who mostly use my mobile device to manage emails, this is an unforgivable failing.
In the second instance the manner in which one is forced to download and install software that is of little value to me, represents a huge problem. A mobile phone should not be tethered to the desktop. (Did I miss something here – is it possible to activate your account without installing iTunes ?). I should also mention that I am an Ubuntu user – and iTunes is decidedly unavailable for *nix users.
I feel very strongly that I will never use the iPhone as a mobile handset in the way that I use a BlackBerry. However – the device’s capabilities as an internet browser is outstanding. What I want is an iPod Touch with 3G capability, or an iPhone with a real keyboard.
Steve ?
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