Here’s a list of 10 things about my new iPhone 4S.
- My contract on my iPhone 3GS was up in August and I was more than ready, even eager for an upgrade.
- I was disappointed Apple didn’t come out with an iPhone 5 with a larger screen, sleeker design, and 4G data connection.
- I gave serious thought to buying an Android phone, specifically the Samsung Galaxy S II. It has a 4.3″ screen (almost a bit too big. 4″ would be perfect), thin and sleek design, and 4G capability.
- I held off pre-ordering a new iPhone to do more research, hear what folks thought when they actually had one in their hands, and decide just what I wanted to do.
- Factors that weighed in favor of iOS included familiarity and many purchased apps that would not be transferable, as well as (admittedly) brand loyalty.
- Don and Ken reminded me I could probably sell the new phone next year if/when an iPhone 5 comes out and I want to upgrade early.
- Features on the iPhone 4S that swayed my decision were 3G connection on AT&T that rivals 4G speeds, with better battery life, greatly improved camera, and Siri.
- Although Siri is the coolest new feature since sliced bread, it’s also very hit and miss, more miss than hit right now. It’s no secret that it’s in Beta mode, and Apple’s servers (which Siri has to connect to in order to work) don’t seem to be able to keep up with it just yet. But analysts predict it will get better quickly and the future looks bright.
- Like every new owner, I have had a lot of fun asking Siri rhetorical and silly questions just to hear the clever answers the Apple development team has come up with. Me: “I’m really tired.” Siri: “Listen to me. Put down this iPhone right now and take a nap. I’ll wait here.” When I persisted that I was tired, she answered. “I hope you’re not driving. Are you?” Or me: “What’s the best phone?” Siri: “Wait, there are other phones?
- Overall, I’m very happy with it. I know more time will tell if I made the right decision, but I’m satisfied for now, and glad I made the plunge.
Love your #9! Seriously, I am just sitting here giggling. Still not hip and hadn’t even heard of Siri. Is it an iPhone thing or could I get it for my iTouch?
Sorry, it’s only on the iPhone 4S, not even on older iPhone models. 🙁 My examples aren’t even the funniest, but happened to be ones I had tried myself. Check out the link for more, and there are even whole websites devoted to Siri comebacks.
I just realized I had the link wrong, but I have updated it now.
I just wish T-Mobile had gotten it. If they had I probably would have already made the switch as my company would pay the service and data plan. As it is they pay my iPhone service ($60/mo) but not the data plan.
Oh well, I guess I’ll be moving to Android when my contract runs out next year.
I’m interested in Siri but I think it’s really a novelty item more than anything. My iPhone allows me to use voice to call someone or play a song but I find the song playing isn’t very good. I never use the voice feature to call someone. Maybe I should but you have to hold the button for a few seconds to activate and then it takes another second to be ready. I think it’s easier to just look someone up.
But if I was going to be staying with AT&T I would be doing exactly what you did.
I just looked at this site and it makes me want to get a 4S and stay with ATT.
Before the phone was released, I heard one analyst refer to Siri as the greatest feature that no one would use. But I think that’s proving false as folks start to pick up on just what it can do. I know there are other apps that will probably do most of the things Siri can do, but (when it works correctly) it’s streamlined, powerful and easy. The fact that it turns on when you put your phone to your ear is just the start of the ease of use. I just need to make it more of a habit. I find myself halfway through typing a text message before I remember I could have asked Siri to do it.
Android has something similar to Siri coming out in the next version. I don’t know how advanced or effective it will be, and I doubt that it will match the cute answers.
Maybe Don should wait and check it out. Will it be available with an OS upgrade, or just on new and certain phones?
Probably on any phone that can be upgraded to the upcoming OS, which is probably any Android phone from the past year or so.
There’s an alpha version of the voice app out now, called “Iris”. Notice anything interesting about that name?
Why yes, I do, Lyrad. Hmmm… I wonder if Apple will make a fuss about that?
I checked prices on an iPhone 4 in craigslist and it looks like they are going for over $300 easily. Did you sell yours yet?
I had a 3GS, and no, I’m not selling it. It’s not in very good shape. Pretty dinged up.
I didn’t realize Siri had to connect to a server to work. What if you are in the woods?
If you can get a data connection, you can use Siri. Otherwise, you’re SOL – Siri Out of Luck!
I took the plunge and bought a 4S yesterday. Now I need to sell my 4. I’ve got it on Craigslist for $325 and have had a few nibbles.