The iPhones Design Is UGLY

[ibookowner2005]

Is it just me or were you expecting a more slim-line looking iPhone, it looks pretty tacky to me. Let me explain...

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/1175/iphonebacksmallhk8.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=iphonebacksmallhk8.jpg)

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4931/ke8503ho4.th.jpg (http://img168.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ke8503ho4.jpg)

I love the iPhone and i want to buy one, im just saying that it could look better... whats your thoughts?

[bartelby]

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.



The PRADA is very cheap looking in real life.

[PatMack]

I usually dislike Apple's new products untill i have looked at them for awhile. Then I grow to love them.

Its a interesting and well supported oppinion, but im going to have to disagree. I fell in love with the design from the begining. Its nice and simple.

[neven]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

I think you meant feminine. Since when does feminine equal ugly? It's going to make for a very nice-feeling gadget in your hand.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

The center of a rounded edge is the obvious spot to place a small, circular item on a large rounded rectangle. The middle is not. Small cellphone camera mirrors are the very definition of tacky. The lack of a flash unit is not a design concern; it's a missing feature. Adding it would have almost certainly made the design uglier.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

No, I must not.

the button bar below the screen on the Prada is hideous - it doesn't match anything in the rest of the design, and it's placed too low. The sharp edges will make for a (mildly) unpleasant tactile feel. The side buttons are asymmetrical and they stick out when viewed from the front - they're also disingenuous, looking almost exactly like those on the RAZR. The camera is in the same spot as with iPhone, only on a hideous plate with ugly text on it.

I think you'll find few people here who will agree with your contention that iPhone is ugly. I would have changed a few minor things about it (at the expense of something else, I'm sure) but overall, it's a stunning, iconic design.

[TheAnswer]

Is it just me or were you expecting a more slim-line looking iPhone, it looks pretty tacky to me. Let me explain...

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

It looks like it won't rip a hole in my Prada pants.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

The LG Prada has it's camera off-center as well.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

The back cover is metal...the shiny Apple doubles as a mirror when using the camera (if you really feel you need one).

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

You hate the etched shiny Apple on the aluminum backing of the iPhone but you love the shiny buttons on the LG Prada, well...you're in luck...it looks like it's got plenty of shiny buttons on both sides too.

[yg17]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

I think the design is good, but there are other aspects of the iPhone I would consider ugly....extremely ugly. Fugly if you will :D

[ibookowner2005]

but overall, it's a stunning, iconic design.

I have to disagree,

since when is a design "Apple fans" have been drawing and making mock-ups for (months before the product was announced) an "iconic design".

Its a "touch screen" so obvously theres no buttons, apart from a home button. The phone has a camera on the back with a Apple logo.

Aside from the software and features etc. Looking at it physically...

its far from a "stunning, iconic design" dont you think ? :confused:

[someguy]

The LG Prada has it's phone off-center as well.

The back cover is metal...the shiny Apple doubles as a mirror when using the phone (if you really feel you need one).

Did you mean camera instead of phone in both instances above?

[hdsalinas]

I think that The Iphone looks great.

I agree that the back could look better. Maybe an all chrome back would make it look better. But then again most of us cant comment on the looks since we have not seen one in real life. You cant judge the look and feel of an object by an image.

The only thing that I feel was a mistake is the place where the camera is placed. I would have loved to have the camera ponting towards me so that I can video conference. I know this would suck for taking pictures. Maybe they could have had it swing to the front somehow or just add a second one in the front. Maybe someone will comeback with a mirror type attachment.

I would love to use the iphone with skype, that is if skype becomes available.

[neven]

since when is a design "Apple fans" have been drawing and making mock-ups for (months before the product was announced) an "iconic design".

I have not seen a single fan mock-up that came even close to the actual design oh iPhone. The first thing I thought when Steve showed it at the keynote was, omigod, those mock-ups were SO lame compared to this.

Aside from the software and features etc. Looking at it physically...

its far from a "stunning, iconic design" dont you think ? :confused:

No, I don't.

[TheAnswer]

Did you mean camera instead of phone in both instances above?

Doh! Fixed. Thanks!! :)

[Ars Diaboli]

Apple has always been extravagant in features while minimalist in design. This makes their products very 'ergonomically economical' (is that a word?). They are freaks on design and maximize every available space as well as finish.

I remember reading a review from somebody who had one (it was on Macrumors a few weeks ago) and they said that is was well constructed (even heavy!). I hope they are right! I think they are.

Just remember, this is the first phone to spawn all of the touch screens! Prada may have introduced one to the market first, but I am betting that the iPhone will outsell the Prada in a week (maybe even less than that)!.

[ibookowner2005]

I have not seen a single fan mock-up that came even close to the actual design oh iPhone.

Add a "home button" and space for the ear speaker... there you go!

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/4725/fake5gyd3.th.jpg (http://img441.imageshack.us/my.php?image=fake5gyd3.jpg)

Most of the mock-ups for the "fullscreen iPod" are similar to the iPhone... there everywhere. Basically a device with one side covered with a "touch interface" resembles an iPhone.

Yeh i also think the iPhone will outsell the Prada ina week :)

I may not like the whole appearence of the iPhone... but i sure am buying one as soon as possible! Go iPhone!

[Teddy's]

2) ... Basically some ugly round hole.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I love the iPhone and i want to buy one, im just saying that it could look better... whats your thoughts?

Point 2 makes me laugh for some reason.

Point 3, well it makes me think of a product from outer space.

It could look better? Oh yes, revisions revisions revisions!

ewww that sounded Balmery!

[slffl]

It's an awesome design IMO. And no I'm not going to give any reasons because I feel no need to try and change the mind of anyone else.

[cwedl]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.


I think this is a good thing, all my apple computers have female names so will my iPhone, also it won't dig in pocket.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

Flash would have been nice, but I think the positioning of the camera was fine, don't forget in the middle you have the sim card

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.
I've never seen the product in person yet so I can't pass judgement, but looking at the photos it do make me wonder why they choose that.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

I don't

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!
no

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone. I think it looks quite good.





I usually dislike Apple's new products untill i have looked at them for awhile. Then I grow to love them.

Thats happened to me on a few of apples products recently, i.e. G5 powermac/mac pro, the new macbooks, ipod stereo etc etc

[Ubuntu]

Is it just me or were you expecting a more slim-line looking iPhone, it looks pretty tacky to me. Let me explain...

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/1175/iphonebacksmallhk8.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=iphonebacksmallhk8.jpg)

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4931/ke8503ho4.th.jpg (http://img168.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ke8503ho4.jpg)

I love the iPhone and i want to buy one, im just saying that it could look better... whats your thoughts?

Although I do disagree with some of your points, I'm totally on your side here. I think the iPhone is overhyped. I think Apple's "it's three devices in one so we'll price it like that!" argument is flawed. I think the fact that the camera doesn't even have a mirror adds insult to injury. I doubt the camera will be any good, even if it is 2.0 MP.

I don't mind how it looks, and I hope to buy a second version, but even then, problems such as tactile feedback (SMS will be so fun! :rolleyes: ) and it just being a stupendously delicate device may still prevent me from buying it.

[SMM]

Is it just me or were you expecting a more slim-line looking iPhone, it looks pretty tacky to me. Let me explain...

[/URL]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

[URL="http://img168.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ke8503ho4.jpg"]http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4931/ke8503ho4.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=iphonebacksmallhk8.jpg)

I love the iPhone and i want to buy one, im just saying that it could look better... whats your thoughts?

I did not know they were even released yet. Anyway, you love it but think it is ugly. Hope you do not use that line in the bedroom.

[mac17]

look at this image thats what people are carrying arround these days (treo) now tell me what would you rather carry in terms of design?

[yg17]

look at this image thats what people are carrying arround these days (treo) now tell me what would you rather carry in terms of design?

The Treo

[mac17]

The Treo ugh it doesnt look like they put ANY effort at all to design the treo its the defenition of ugly. Sorry if this is offensive but you apparently have no concept of design:o

[mac-er]

Is it just me or were you expecting a more slim-line looking iPhone, it looks pretty tacky to me. Let me explain...

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/1175/iphonebacksmallhk8.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=iphonebacksmallhk8.jpg)

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4931/ke8503ho4.th.jpg (http://img168.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ke8503ho4.jpg)

I love the iPhone and i want to buy one, im just saying that it could look better... whats your thoughts?

Please do not feed the troll.

[Cindynjgirl79]

look at this image thats what people are carrying arround these days (treo) now tell me what would you rather carry in terms of design?

sorry but give me an iPhone any day. i think it looks great. it looks better than anything out there now.

[yg17]

ugh it doesnt look like they put ANY effort at all to design the treo its the defenition of ugly. Sorry if this is offensive but you apparently have no concept of design:o

I don't care about looks, I care about functionality. The iPhone looks better, but I couldn't care less. Functionally, it does not meet my needs.

I also care that if I wanted to, I could purchase a Treo without being limited to a single carrier or needing to extend a contract, plus it would be unlocked for me to use on any GSM carrier I wanted.

Please do not feed the troll.

So anyone who claims that Phone X is better than the iPhone is suddenly a troll. How nice :rolleyes:

[mac17]

I don't care about looks, I care about functionality. The iPhone looks better, but I couldn't care less. Functionally, it does not meet my needs.

I also care that if I wanted to, I could purchase a Treo without being limited to a single carrier or needing to extend a contract, plus it would be unlocked for me to use on any GSM carrier I wanted.



So anyone who claims that Phone X is better than the iPhone is suddenly a troll. How nice :rolleyes:
please read my question first it clearly states what would you pick IN TERMS OF DESIGN.

[xfiftyfour]

why oh WHY do people sign up on a mac forum only to insult mac products?? Here you go (http://www.zunescene.com/forums/), since someone OBVIOUSLY gave you the wrong link.

[Gonzlobo]

The only thing feminine about Apple's phone is the ads with the girly hand holding an iphone. Jeez, hire a guy with man hands!

[localoid]

... 1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

Hmmm, let me think about that. Roundish things on something female + touching. Err, what's not to like? :p

[MovieCutter]

why oh WHY do people sign up on a mac forum only to insult mac products?? Here you go (http://www.zunescene.com/forums/), since someone OBVIOUSLY gave you the wrong link.

You go girl!!!!


fiesty ;)

[dpaanlka]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

That's a classic Apple design element. See this (http://folklore.org/StoryView.py?project=Macintosh&story=Round_Rects_Are_Everywhere.txt&topic=Software%20Design&sortOrder=Sort%20by%20Date&detail=medium) for more. This is why the Menu Bar is rounded, windows are rounded, scroll bars are rounded, etc...

2) Position of the camera. Doesent look profesional, isnt in the centre, no flash or mirror that come standard on other phones. Basically some ugly round hole.

It looks way better than the camera on my phone!

3) The shiny apple logo and mixed black / white cover. Makes the product appear quite cheap. Would look more slick and streamlined with all black.

I would have said all silver on the back, like iPods.

I MUCH prefair the LOOK of the Lg Prada Phone.

But that has rounded corners, and black/silver colors as well!

In terms of the physical appearence and not features etc... you must agree that the prada looks better!

Nope, it looks like an iPhone, only with a big "PRADA" on the front, and more buttons. And why isn't anyone raving about how revolutionary the Prada phone's interface and feature set is? Probably because it's crap (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/battlemodo/settling-this-iphone-vs-lg-prada-nonsense-261172.php).

4) Also the round "home" button does not look attractive, compared to that of the glossy buttons at the bottom of the Prada phone.

Well, now that is just completely your opinion. I entirely disagree. I think the one button over the Pradas several buttons looks way better. Also, I guarantee you those glossy Prada buttons are glossy plastic.

[yg17]

please read my question first it clearly states what would you pick IN TERMS OF DESIGN.

My mistake, but it's still a crappy question because most people choose phones in terms of functionality, or at least I hope so

[XnavxeMiyyep]

My mistake, but it's still a crappy question because most people choose phones in terms of functionality, or at least I hope so

True, but this whole thread is about how ugly the iPhone supposedly is.

[Sutekidane]

The iPhone is pretty ugly... that and it'll probably be both fragile and a fingerprint magnet. No thanks.

[bloodycape]

look at this image thats what people are carrying arround these days (treo) now tell me what would you rather carry in terms of design?

Neither and I own a Treo 700W.

[bartelby]

Nope, it looks like an iPhone, only with a big "PRADA" on the front, and more buttons. And why isn't anyone raving about how revolutionary the Prada phone's interface and feature set is? Probably because it's crap (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/battlemodo/settling-this-iphone-vs-lg-prada-nonsense-261172.php).


Well, now that is just completely your opinion. I entirely disagree. I think the one button over the Pradas several buttons looks way better. Also, I guarantee you those glossy Prada buttons are glossy plastic.

Having owned a PRADA for about a month I totally agree with the gizmodo review. But saying "it's crap" is a little harsh:)

And yes, the buttons are wonderful glossy plastic!:)

[chaosbunny]

My mistake, but it's still a crappy question because most people choose phones in terms of functionality, or at least I hope so

Yeah, I choose my phones in terms of functionality. I want to, like, make phone calls with them.

[.Andy]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.

:confused:

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/4840/feminemuw9.jpg

[Nym]

Some people just have no idea of what "design" means and what it's for.

It's not just product being eye-appealing, it's about wether the form = function or not.

I won't buy an iPhone (maybe if a iPhone Nano if it ever comes out) but I can still see that it is a great piece of industrial design, it's not shocking (which means it can appeal to a broader, less informed audience) and it's not in any way "different" than the form factor used in most mobile phones today (which means that the product can easily be recognized as a phone).

The phone is surrounded by a metal casing (don't know the material but I can almost guess it will be a light but strong metal, same as last gen's iPods) which avoids damaging certain parts of the phone, especially the corners (hence the roundedness). This makes the outer part of the phone difficult to wear out in time, and I can't imagine the metal casing losing it's clearness because.. err... it's metal.. my iPod Nano's back still works as a mirror if I want to, and it's going to be 2 years old in October.

The rounded shape is there for a couple of other reasons too. First, because it's Apple's trademark, iPod's, iMac's, Mac Pro, MacBook, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, the 2004 iMac, the eMac, they ALL have rounded corners because it's a matter of brand identity, that way it makes easier to distinguish Apple's products from other stuff around, it's a matter of coherence.
The rounded corners also have another purpose. If you think about it, Apple strives for being a "young" innovative company, and human perception studies have proved that people associate rounded shapes to the ideas of movement, dynamism and youthfulness and square shapes to more traditional and rigid products.

If you had to choose between these categories, which one would Apple fit in?

The Home button in small, tactile (it has an inner bevel) and it's a perfect match for it's function.

The camera shouldn't be centered for a certain number of reasons that I'm not going to list but if you think about it, most phones have their cameras non-centered for a reason.

A mirror in the iPhone wouldn't be worth it, it would look the object look worse and more complicated (which is bad for the general consumer, too many stuff on the surface) and it really isn't all that necessary unless you're a narcissist and spend half the pictures you take with yourself :)

The only thing I don't like in the iPhone is it's size, it's way too big to me, I understand there had to be a compromise between size and usability but still, I find it too big for my daily usage.

Anyway, I could go on an on an on but I guess it's enough to show you my POV, which is:

You are entitled to your opinion and no one has the right to recriminate you for that, however, saying the iPhone is "ugly" or "badly designed" like it was a universal fact is an over-statement filled with disguised ignorance about what true design is and should be.

[Nym]

Some people just have no idea of what "design" means and what it's for.

It's not just product being eye-appealing, it's about wether the form = function or not, and in this case, form = function.

I won't buy an iPhone (maybe if a iPhone Nano if it ever comes out) but I can still see that it is a great piece of industrial design, it's not shocking (which means it can appeal to a broader, less informed audience) and it's not in any way "different" than the form factor used in most mobile phones today (which means that the product can easily be recognized as a phone).

The phone is surrounded by a metal casing (don't know the material but I can almost guess it will be a light but strong metal, same as last gen's iPods) which avoids damaging certain parts of the phone, especially the corners (hence the roundedness). This makes the outer part of the phone difficult to wear out in time, and I can't imagine the metal casing losing it's clearness because.. err... it's metal.. my iPod Nano's back still works as a mirror if I want to, and it's going to be 2 years old in October.

The rounded shape is there for a couple of other reasons too. First, because it's Apple's trademark, iPod's, iMac's, Mac Pro, MacBook, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, the 2004 iMac, the eMac, they ALL have rounded corners because it's a matter of brand identity, that way it makes easier to distinguish Apple's products than other stuff around, above all, it's a matter of coherence.
The rounded corners also have another purpose. If you think about it, Apple strives for being a "young" innovative company, and human perception studies have proved that people associate rounded shapes to the ideas of movement, dynamism and youthfulness and square shapes to more traditional and rigid products.

If you had to choose between these categories, which one would Apple fit in?

The Home button in small, tactile (it has an inner bevel) and it's a perfect match for it's function The camera shouldn't be centered for a certain number of reasons that I'm not going to list but if you think about it, most phones have their cameras non-centered for a reason.

A mirror in the iPhone wouldn't be worth it, it would look the object look worse and more complicated (which is bad for the general consumer, too many stuff on the surface) and it really isn't all that necessary unless you're a narcissist and spend half the pictures you take in yourself :)

The only thing I don't like in the iPhone is it's size, it's way too big to me, I understand there had to be a compromise between size and usability but still, I find it too big for my daily usage.

Anyway, I could go on an on an on but I guess it's enough to show you my POV, which is:

You are entitled to your opinion and no one has the right to recriminate you for that, however, saying the iPhone is "ugly" or "badly designed" like it was a universal fact is an over-statement filled with disguised ignorance about what true design is and should be.

[vincebio]

this thread should be retitled 'i THINK the iPhone design in UGLY'

Ugly is a personal viewpoint, nothing more:rolleyes:


the reason its so hot in the eyes of other poeple is that they have a different opinion than you...;)

[Nym]

Some people just have no idea of what "design" means and what it's for.

It's not just a product being eye-appealing, it's about wether the form follows/equals function or not.

I won't buy an iPhone (maybe if a iPhone Nano if it ever comes out) but I can still see that it is a great piece of industrial design, it's not shocking (which means it can appeal to a broader, less informed audience) and it's not in any way "different" than the form factor used in most mobile phones today (which means that the product can easily be recognized as a phone).

The phone is surrounded by a metal casing (don't know the material but I can almost guess it will be a light but strong metal, same as last gen's iPods) which avoids damaging certain parts of the phone, especially the corners (hence the roundedness). This makes the outer part of the phone difficult to wear out in time, and I can't imagine the metal casing losing it's clearness because.. err... it's metal.. my iPod Nano's back still works as a mirror if I want to, and it's going to be 2 years old in October.

The rounded shape is there for a couple of other reasons too. First, because it's Apple's trademark, iPod's, iMac's, Mac Pro, MacBook, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, the 2004 iMac, the eMac, they ALL have rounded corners because it's a matter of brand identity, that way it makes easier to distinguish Apple's products than other stuff around, above all, it's a matter of coherence.
The rounded corners also have another purpose. If you think about it, Apple strives for being a "young" innovative company, and human perception studies have proved that people associate curved shapes to the ideas of movement, dynamism and youthfulness and square shapes to more traditional and rigid products.

If you had to choose between these categories, which one would Apple fit in?

The Home button in small, tactile (it has an inner bevel) and it's a perfect match for it's function The camera shouldn't be centered for a certain number of reasons that I'm not going to list but if you think about it, most phones have their cameras non-centered for a reason.

A mirror in the iPhone wouldn't be worth it, it would look make the object look worse and more complicated (which is bad for the general consumer, too many stuff on the surface) and it really isn't all that necessary unless you're a narcissist and spend half the pictures you take with yourself :)

The only thing I don't like in the iPhone is it's size, it's way too big to me, I understand there had to be a compromise between size and usability but still, I find it too big for my daily usage.

Anyway, I could go on an on an on but I guess it's enough to show you my POV, which is:

You are entitled to your opinion and no one has the right to recriminate you for that, however, saying the iPhone is "ugly" or "badly designed" like it was a universal fact is an over-statement filled with disguised ignorance about what true design is and should be.

[JNB]

I understand there had to be a compromise between size and usability but still, I find it too big for my daily usage.

Good post, very cogent points.

The only thing I might take you to task on is the quoted statement; while too big for you (and yet may be for many of us, as we haven't actually held the dem thing yet!), I don't see where there's a compromise in size. If the decision was that it would contain a screen of X dimensions, it follows that the surrounding enclosure has to be slightly larger to contain it, no?

Unless the compromise went something like this...

SJ: "I want the screen THIS BIG" *holds hands apart*
JI: "But Steve, people will want to hold it in only one hand"
SJ: "Damn you, Jonny, and your infallible instincts!"

;)

[buymeaniphone]

Who cares about the look, it looks fine to me. I'm not one of those people that chooses their digital camera because its "cute", I chose the ugly SOB that has 7.1 megapixels and a 10x optical zoom.

Apple is all about simplicity, and a cell phone doesn't get much more simple than the iPhone. Everything Apple puts out has rounded corners, I'm sure I'm not the only one thats noticed this. To me the Prada looks pretty boring. Either way, between the Prada and the iPhone only one of them runs OS-X...I rest my case.:p

[Sutekidane]

Whoa, triple post...

Anyway, this thread is purely based on opinion... so it makes sense that there is a lot of varied viewpoints... No need to start a flamewar people... Just because someone doesn't agree with you don't mean they have poor taste, just different preferences.

[ISMPlus]

look at this image thats what people are carrying arround these days (treo) now tell me what would you rather carry in terms of design?

The Treo is cool, I would've bought if it wasn't b/c the iPhone is coming out... but I think it is UUUGLY!

To the OP, Re: Apple does smart designing. Someone already mentioned that the shiny apple in the back serves as mirror. And so what if doesn't have a mirror. You seem to be way too concerned about looks.... mirror... Prada... shiny buttons... hello? You're looking and comparing the wrong phone. They don't want to be a Prada...

[mashinhead]

The PRADA is very cheap looking in real life.

Exactly.

While i agree with the original poster about point #3, here's what you (meaning original poster not bartelby, i agree with bartelby) missing. Materials play a HUGE role in the perception of a product. Apple uses good materials.

Example a blackberry pearl, looks good in product shots, but when you see it in person and the cheap plastic they used and painted chrome, it's really weak. same for the lg prada. They are using the image of the product to sell the product, not the product itself. Apple is using both.

I bet when you see one in person you will eat your words, because of materials.

[nplima]

Who cares about the look, it looks fine to me.

only the buyers care about details like that :)

[...]

Apple is all about simplicity, and a cell phone doesn't get much more simple than the iPhone.
[...]

Ahem, let's correct that to "a smartphone can't get much simpler that the iPhone"

When iPhone comes out it will have a crowded market waiting for it. We're talking about 90% of the european adult population owning a mobile phone, similar % in many other modern cities around the world. Smartphones are a specific segment that has been ridden with usability problems, bloated software meant to allow a shotgun approach to addressing users' needs. Personally, I'm hoping that iPhone is successful enough to change some bad habits such as mobile network operators having MS Exchange servers for users' email. Apple and Yahoo using IMAP will show a lot of people how to get things done properly using standard internet technologies and that I hope will be good for a lot of people besides iPhone buyers.

[solvs]

For those complaining that it's ugly and not very functional, you obviously haven't seen one in person. They aren't perfect, but they're way nicer than some pics you see online lead you to believe. It's smaller too.

[Matteh117]

LG Prada, with PRADA being a DESIGNER brand. Bear that in mind.

One of the main reasons people don't like the iPhone is the camera. Big deal? It's a PHONE, it doesn't need a camera. That's what digital cameras are for, not phones. It's designed for pictures to send to other phones, not great macro shots.

My 2p.

[Nym]

LG Prada, with PRADA being a DESIGNER brand. Bear that in mind.

One of the main reasons people don't like the iPhone is the camera. Big deal? It's a PHONE, it doesn't need a camera. That's what digital cameras are for, not phones. It's designed for pictures to send to other phones, not great macro shots.

My 2p.

Prada is a Clothing/Jewelry Design company, iI'm pretty sure they don't have a Industrial Design section.

Apple has one of the best design crews in the world, I doubt that Prada can match up to them, especially in the "gadget" industry, where Apple clearly is the Home team.

When I said that the iPhone was too big to me I was refering to the fact that it looks big in Steve's hand (from the keynote) compared to my current phone (which is a crap one, but very small), I can leave work for lunch and take the phone in my pants pockets along with my iPod, pack of cigarretes, money, credit card.. and it all fits where the iPhone (probably) wouldn't fit by himself :D

But of course, I'm reserving judgement until I hold one in my hand, not like some other people who have been complaining about an unreleased product for the past 6 months.

[bartelby]

Prada is a Clothing/Jewelry Design company, iI'm pretty sure they don't have a Industrial Design section.

PRADA designed the phone and the GUI.

[sinecurea]

1) The rounded edges, makes it look quite feminem.


Is the iPod feminine?

[whooleytoo]

I have to agree. I'm really looking forward to using the iPhone, but I really dislike the design. It's not a minimalist design - using 2 different materials on the front and two more on the back is too fussy a design to be minimalist. It's not particularly original either, the black glossy rounded front with a chrome bezel has been used on several existing phones - it's quite unlike Apple not to use a fresh design.

If you watch the keynote when he actually showed the device for the first time the reaction of the crowd was very muted.

[Gonzlobo]

If you watch the keynote when he actually showed the device for the first time the reaction of the crowd was very muted.


Really? I heard a couple of dozen fanboys whooping it up whenever Jobs mentioned features. I wouldn't expect members of the press to make a sound (kinda like they're not expected to cheer/clap in the press box during sporting events).

[bartelby]

Maybe it's a fake prototype and no one will know the real design until it's officially released.

[Matteh117]

Prada is a Clothing/Jewelry Design company, iI'm pretty sure they don't have a Industrial Design section.

Apple has one of the best design crews in the world, I doubt that Prada can match up to them, especially in the "gadget" industry, where Apple clearly is the Home team.

When I said that the iPhone was too big to me I was refering to the fact that it looks big in Steve's hand (from the keynote) compared to my current phone (which is a crap one, but very small), I can leave work for lunch and take the phone in my pants pockets along with my iPod, pack of cigarretes, money, credit card.. and it all fits where the iPhone (probably) wouldn't fit by himself :D

But of course, I'm reserving judgement until I hold one in my hand, not like some other people who have been complaining about an unreleased product for the past 6 months.
My point was it has a designer "label" and therefore is made to look fashionable, not practical to rival the iPhone (again, my opinion but I'm sure it is like that).

I am very pro-iPhone, but I have to agree with most of the others here that there are things that could (and should) have been done differently (ie. iPod style (mirrored back) should be kept to the iPod, size could be smaller (well, it probably can't on the inside) and 3G networking (esp. in europe where wifi isn't quite as widely spread as in the us)). Nonetheless, I still want one, crave one and will buy one regardless of these features.

Note to self: stop using brackets.

[bloodycape]

Maybe it's a fake prototype and no one will know the real design until it's officially released.

You mean like test mule?

And of course the Nym iPhone will fit into your pocket. If I can get keys and a PMP with a 4in screen with the thickness that is a little more than as 2gen ipod in a regular sized pocket. No doubt you can fit it in your pocket, only issues arises the fact that you have to be careful when taking it out.

[bartelby]

You mean like test mule?

Well they did show Cingular several different phones so no one knew what the phone would look like so real details couldn't be leaked.

I wouldn't be surprised if this was just a working prototype.

[mkrishnan]

Is the iPod feminine?

No, it's girly! ;)

[whooleytoo]

Really? I heard a couple of dozen fanboys whooping it up whenever Jobs mentioned features. I wouldn't expect members of the press to make a sound (kinda like they're not expected to cheer/clap in the press box during sporting events).

It's not the features I meant, but the physical appearance of the device. When he showed the very first picture of it in the keynote, there wasn't exactly a rapturous reception.

[Sequencial1]

Well in regards to the Prada LG.. I don't like LG. I do like apple. I probably won't get the iphone, because I don't need one for anything.. But given the choice, I'd choose it over the LG. Just because.. I'm not a fan of the entire company, so for whatever reason, everything they make = ugly to me. I think the iPhone looks nice, and it has cool features. But I'd rather have the next generation ipod, and a cell phone. A samsung cell phone. :cool:

[solvs]

If you watch the keynote when he actually showed the device for the first time the reaction of the crowd was very muted.

I was there. No it wasn't. Everybody loved it. Everybody. The whole week it seemed to be all anyone could talk about.

And they're still talking about it.

[Chris Bangle]

It's not the features I meant, but the physical appearance of the device. When he showed the very first picture of it in the keynote, there wasn't exactly a rapturous reception.

thats beacause the screen was green

[Bern]

According to the OP the iPhone is "feminem" which means:-

(a) Name given to Detroit rapper Eminem by people who view him as lacking rap talent and as a tool of the mainstream pop world. Used by other rappers, such as Esham the Unholy, Insane Clown Posse, and Ja Rule. (b) Used to describe one who attempts to emulate said rapper. Urban Dictionary (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Feminem)

[daneoni]

The iPhone does look girly as does the Blackberry Pearl, WhiteBook, iPods, iMac, LG chocolate, LG Prada etc. Point is, majority of toys out there are becoming 'feminem'

I don't get why there is no flash or portrait mirror either and why the lense is at the edge....i guess they borrowed that from the T-Mobile dash/Treo design (Fanboys would disagree here) Also the reason they did the silver black thing on the back is probably to avoid scratches like the ipods. Since people handle their phones more than they do ipods on average

Overall the iPhone design is essentially a modified 5G ipod design. Is it ugly?....i wouldn't go that far. Is it the best looking design?....wouldn't go that far either.