I really, truly hate mentioning the iPhone on this blog. I hate that I’m now just like everyone else talking about the iPhone. However, I also hate that I’m the only one (that I’ve read) that sees the true effects of the iPhone on the mobile phone industry.

Let’s get something straight right now. There is *NOTHING* revolutionary about the iPhone. At best, it’s evolutionary, and only because of the touch interface. However, the features and capabilities are NOTHING NEW. If you can’t agree with that, then stop reading here.

Let’s compare, for instance, the iPhone with the Nokia N91, which first went on sale over a year ago (both in the US and abroad)…..

Both devices have 2MP cam with no flash/autofocus. Both have WiFi. Both have EDGE (at least in the US). Both are available in 2 capacities, 4GB and 8GB. Both can sync with iTunes (assuming you’re not stupid enough to purchase DRM’d tracks from Apple and are just ripping them from the real CD). Both can browse the full internet.

I will make a few concessions. The N91 is fugly and lacks GSM 850 (this was before Nokia stopped being retarded with tri-band GSM devices). But there are several other S60 devices that are sexier and have all the right fequencies. S60 lacks the touch-interface, but I don’t think that’s as big of a factor as others seem to. However, the iPhone cannot do MMS, and you can’t add your own apps to extend functionality. You also, apparently, cannot swap the battery or the SIM card. So there’s the recap of the two products. Overall, they’re pretty much the same.
Now let’s look at pricing. The iPhone is $499 and $599 with a 2-year contract from AT&T and (presumably) a special data plan. The N91 is currently $394.99 for the 8GB, with the 4GB being cheaper than that! And that doesn’t require a contract at all! So what’s the deal? What are the SIGNIFICANT differences? Why is the iPhone so hotly anticipated, and S60 devices struggling in the US?

Promotion. Apple has marketed the iPhone like no other. The ads that came out the other day are sexy, and simple. The last Nokia ad that I recall seeing (other than on YouTube) is some hill-billy sitting on his bed “jamming” out to the Dukes of Hazzard polyphonic ringtone on his 6102. Where’s the mention of the sexiness of S60 devices and their capabilities?

Place - Where can you buy the N91? Online, and (I think) through the 2 Flagship stores in the US. TWO. That’s it, for the whole United States. Pathetic. Where will you be able to get the iPhone? Through any of thousands of AT&T retail stores, and the Apple Stores. Yes, Apple has a TREMENDOUS retail network in the US, and they’re still able to keep that “classy” feel.

More…

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