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 ?
September 22nd, 2009 at 11:36 am
Sorry Jacques, totally disagree. I was a dedicated Blackberry user and while I love them, I’m sold on the iPhone. Sure, it has it’s quirks, but overall the pros outweigh the cons.
I’ve tried the HTC Android phones and while they come closest, there’s not contest. Contrary to your experience I set up 3 email accounts, iTunes, downloaded free Apps and had everything synced and all my contacts updated in a couple of hours.
The keyboard issue is a challenge to start if you’re so used to tactile buttons, but you master it. How many times do you replace your sim? I dunno, these a minor things when you consider what it does. Hey, I even figured out how to create ringtones from my music.
Give the touchpad more time, you’ll be surprised.
Jason
September 22nd, 2009 at 1:07 pm
Hey Jacques, as in the facebook status, I will fight the good fight here and give you a few things to think about.
Everyone takes a little while to get used to the touch keyboard, and within a short time it just seems to make sense. In fact it may even become second nature.
Top pocket? I haven’t found a shirt pocket it does not fit in comfortably. I admit at first the size is off putting, then you look at the browser and you go hey, this browser with this big screen is great.
I am an Ubuntu user at home, the only reason you need itunes is to activate the phone, pretty much everything else can be done with the phone. Account setup is a bit tricky but a once off endeavor to a happier life.
There is the niggly little fact that apple vets the apps according to its own rules, a little “hackjailbreakfix” is all thats necessary to break away from the rules.
With the apps that your guys have developed I assume they are Cydia(jailbreak appstore) loaded?
What you get on an iPhone that you don’t get on a blackberry that I think are deal breakers:
An App store (killer)
seamless integration with Exchange without any server or accounts (this is a game changer)
Native youtube,
full safari browser,
sms,mms
Internet tethering ,
Google maps(directions and street view to come)
weather,
camera.
Seamless wifi access.
those are the Default tools available to you without any downloads.
Now when we go into some of the great apps you can get for free or a small price:
(askmehow call 1800)
(still awaiting appstore approval)
DSTV Guide
News 24 app
Augmented reality app (thanks media lab)
Remote control of your itunes or Keynote (power point alternative)
Mxit
An AWESOME facebook app. (let me hear a woop woop)
TomTom navigation … aah hello yes I said tomTom
skype,
Nimbuzz
Not that you are a fan, but a rugby zone app
Qik ustream and cliq allow live streaming to the internet all social integrated.
a Multitude of Twitter apps from tweetdeck to Twitterfon.
Fring.
Snaptell for an unparalleled book buying experience.
Midomi for Song detection next to nothing.
Trapster for your speed trap warning issues.(we know you have them)
MyWi – Turns your iphone into 3g hotspot to share internet connectivity .
Dont have easy access to a keyboard or mouse then use Air mouse which allows you to use gesturing or a touchpad and full keyboard alternative.
VNC, Remote Desktop, VPN.
Oh and wait … its also an iPod with a multitude of features.
Itunes on the phone allows you to preview any song for free and then buy it!
I don’t think you have kids yet, but I have 3 pages of apps for my kids, who are already iphone-aholics.
It has an antisocial aspect to it granted, but I think that may take _you_ a while to develop.
Did we mention it was a phone too?
September 22nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
LOL – spoken like a true fanboy Brennan
I agree that the iPhone is a great device for browsing. Disagree that it is better for email than a BB. I travel a lot, and the BB always JUST WORKS. Always.
I need my mail a lot more than I need an AppStore.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:39 pm
Let the flame wars begin!
Yes, why yes I am a fanboy! how did you guess? was it the blatant rallying for your, acceptance of the Jesus phone?
BB mail works if your operator has a BB push server.
Exchange sync …hmm doesn’t need that?
The phone responsiveness on the capacitive touch screen is differentiator to the Android set. Incidentally Nokia have announced all their new touch interfaces to switch to the capacitive touch screen. (Seems a trend)
Ill admit one thing about International travel and the iPhone, if the phone is a jailbroken software unlocked phone, there is a party trick to get it to work when jumping borders.(pop sim or reboot) However if you have the Run of the mill Operator supported handset then International travel is a synch. Or to quote you “it just works”
I’m going to say this on personal level, as of today there is no phone that beats the iPhone 3GS. You can run a poll !
Given sufficient time with the iPhone I have no doubt that your affinity for its UI and functions will grow stronger.
- brennan
September 28th, 2009 at 11:11 am
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