3G iPhone Q&A

By Kent German on 13 June 2008, 10:50am

Is your heart aflutter at the thought of buying an iPhone 3G? Are you counting the days until the 11 July release date? If this describes you, or even if you are just toying with the idea, there are a few things you'll need to know. The process for buying an iPhone 3G will be quite different from what it was last year for the original model. Fortunately, Crave is here to tell you all you should need to know.

Q: What's so great about the iPhone 3G?
A: The iPhone 3G adds important features that were absent on the original iPhone. Those include support for 3G networks, true GPS, and support for Microsoft Exchange server. It will also support third-party applications available through the upcoming iPhone apps store. Its design is different as well, but not by much.

Q: What's not so good about it?
A: We were hoping to see a few more features including multimedia messaging, voice dialling, video recording and a landscape keyboard.

Q: So should I get it?
A: If you want an iPhone but haven't bought one yet, this is the iPhone for you. If you already own an iPhone, the choice isn't as clear. But if you can afford to upgrade, you should. The added features will be worth it. We only stress that you should verify that you have sufficient 3G coverage in your area.

Q: Can I still activate my phone using iTunes?
A: You have to sign a contract before you can buy one from a shop. Once you've signed up, you then complete the sign-up process using iTunes.

Q: Why is that?
A: We suspect that it's a way to crack down on iPhones that were purchased but were never activated on O2's network -- unlocked handsets, in other words. It means O2 and Apple are sure of your regular payment.

Q: How much will the iPhone 3G cost?
A: This is one area of good news. While last year buyers paid up to £329 for their iPhones, the iPhone 3G will be significantly cheaper. The 8GB model will cost £99 and the 16GB model will cost £159, both with an 18-month £30 or £35 contract, although it will be cheaper if you go for a more expensive contract.

Q: Can I use an iPhone 3G with pay as you go on O2?
A: Yes, but we don't know prices yet.

Q: If I keep my current iPhone, will I miss out on all the new features?
A: Through the iPhone 2.0 software update you'll get many of the new goodies, including the third-party applications and the Exchange server support. You will miss out on the 3G and GPS though.

Q: Let's say I bought my iPhone last year and I want the 3G iPhone. Can I give my old iPhone to my sister or sell it on eBay?
A: Yes, get the full details here.

Q: Do I have to be in the store to get software updates or to sync it with iTunes?
A: No, updates and syncing with iTunes can be done right from your home computer. You can also buy applications from the Apps Store from your computer.

Q: Can I use the iPhone 3G abroad?
A: As a quad-band GSM phone with support for three 3G bands, you'll be able to use the new iPhone all over the world. Just remember that the phone will be locked to O2, so you won't be able to use another carrier's SIM card.

Q: Will the iPhone ever come to other networks in the UK?
A: It's hard to say -- it depends on how long the exclusive deal with O2 lasts for, and those details aren't in the public domain. -Kent German and Jason Jenkins