iPhone disappointment

[GimmeSlack12]

With all this complaining about the Carrier, you ever wonder if Cingular was the only carrier that would work with Apple?

I remember hearing a big problem with getting the iPhone off the ground was that no carrier would allow Apple to work on their network. I think Cingular is going to be laughing all the way to bank on this one.

It isn't Apple's fault it's on Cingular, it was the only choice available (probably).

 

[seven2k7]

ok so steve compared the iphone to a treo. Does the iphone have a word processor or excel program. I have treo 650 and gettting an iphone would be great, but i cant wait for them to take their time in developing an office suite for it. If they are trying to switch people like me over they still need alot of work. Second Cingular suckssss! I have sprint pcs and have an awesome plan and like their customer service. Why would i switch companies over. if he would of shown apps like iwork or simple version of Appleworks than people like me would of been in line already. But for now yeah its nice for someone that wants to combine their ipod and cell phone. Yeah ill wait until it hits cdma companies. Remember that business use blackberries and nextels. Nextel is own by sprint. He needs to amke it an essential so far its something my 18 year old nephew wants.

 

[SMM]

Pretty funny coming from someone who's on a message board for a product used by approx. 2.8% of PC users worldwide.

http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,2072141,00.asp

You people (MAC users), above all, should know that just because "most people are using it" does not make it the better solution. I don't live in 80% of the world. I live in the US and Verizon's monster EVDO network easily beats Cingular's HSDPA in the US, where it matters to me.

I heartily agree with the person who posted this thread.

So, why did you just show up with all of this great wisdom?

 

[supafly1703]

Getting nauseous...

...hearing all this idiotic banter about the single most amazing piece of consumer technology I have seen in a long time.

Exclusive carrier...so? It won't be hard to unlock and use for your own purposes, especially if a full-scale OS is on it...some hacker will have a solution quite soon after release, I'm sure....

Too many features? This is their flagship entry into another realm of consumer electronics, so it HAD to dazzle...and boy does it...

Only EDGE? It has wifi too, ya know...

These are minor quibbles! Apple just showed us the next generation of user interaction! Apple just created the ultimate, seamless convergence device, arguably the first one done RIGHT! AND IT WAS ALL BUILT FROM DAY ONE OT WORK PERFECTLY WITH YOUR COMPUTER!

This is REVOLUTIONARY!

 

[clevin]

...hearing all this idiotic banter about the single most amazing piece of consumer technology I have seen in a long time.

Exclusive carrier...so? It won't be hard to unlock and use for your own purposes, especially if a full-scale OS is on it...some hacker will have a solution quite soon after release, I'm sure....

Too many features? This is their flagship entry into another realm of consumer electronics, so it HAD to dazzle...and boy does it...

Only EDGE? It has wifi too, ya know...

These are minor quibbles! Apple just showed us the next generation of user interaction! Apple just created the ultimate, seamless convergence device, arguably the first one done RIGHT! AND IT WAS ALL BUILT FROM DAY ONE OT WORK PERFECTLY WITH YOUR COMPUTER!

This is REVOLUTIONARY!

would that be legal to unlock the phone?

 

[Hoosierdaddy]

For one reason...

So, why did you just show up with all of this great wisdom?

Look, I don't have a dog in this fight. I'm just offering information for everyone's benefit. Until a friend e-mailed me today, I didn't even know this device was in the works. When I clicked the link to the forums page my friend sent me. I started checking out the posts just so I could learn about the device. My interest was peaked when I read mrogers' post. The irony in mrogers argument was so thick, I initially registered for one reason, simply to rebut the hypocrisy.

Given that Apple has made it's name on being "different" and going against what the "ignorant majority" does, for mrogers to argue that, because 80% of global wireless users are on the GSM standard, it was the right choice for Apple, was just too overwhelmingly ironic (and hypocritical) to let slide.

Earlier today, when I first got word the device had launched, I assumed that Apple would launch the device with both GSM HSDPA/UMTS (400-700 kbps) data connectivity and with backward compatibility to GSM EDGE (50-70 kbps) data connectivity. The fact that it's not going to run on GSM's HSDPA/UMTS true 3G platform makes it a non-starter from a wireless data standpoint.

The Samsung i700 and other CDMA devices have been running at 60-80 kbps on CDMA 1XRTT networks for well over 3 years. CDMA EVDO PDAs have been connecting at (400-700 kbps) in most metro areas around the US for the last couple of years. Lots of Cingular PDAs have been running on EDGE (at 50-70 kbps) for years as well. I just "assumed" that with such a ground-breaking, highly anticipated device like this, it would have all of the latest bells and whistles; which beg the questions, "Where is Cingular's HSDPA/UMTS 3G data network and why doesn't the iPhone have it?"

 

[Hoosierdaddy]

...hearing all this idiotic banter about the single most amazing piece of consumer technology I have seen in a long time.

Exclusive carrier...so? It won't be hard to unlock and use for your own purposes, especially if a full-scale OS is on it...some hacker will have a solution quite soon after release, I'm sure....

Too many features? This is their flagship entry into another realm of consumer electronics, so it HAD to dazzle...and boy does it...

Only EDGE? It has wifi too, ya know...

These are minor quibbles! Apple just showed us the next generation of user interaction! Apple just created the ultimate, seamless convergence device, arguably the first one done RIGHT! AND IT WAS ALL BUILT FROM DAY ONE OT WORK PERFECTLY WITH YOUR COMPUTER!

This is REVOLUTIONARY!

1. A GSM phone cannot be "unlocked" to work on a CDMA/EVDO network like Verizon or Sprint. Simply two VERY different digital wireless technologies.

2. If you're suggesting that a patchwork of Wi-Fi hotspots is in any way comparable to a wide area wireless network, like Sprint or Verizon's, you're truly comparing apples to oranges. Wide Area CDMA EVDO Wireless Broadband coverage blows away the limitations of Wi-Fi hot spots and is in no way comparable.

Great concept (first rev.) I have always loved and admired the simplicity of Apple's minimalist approach to design but to be competitive in the wireless data market, future releases will have to employ either GSM's HSDPA or CDMA's EVDO.

 

[clevin]

Look, I don't have a dog in this fight. I'm just offering information for everyone's benefit. Until a friend e-mailed me today, I didn't even know this device was in the works. When I clicked the link to the forums page my friend sent me. I started checking out the posts just so I could learn about the device. My interest was peaked when I read mrogers' post. The irony in mrogers argument was so thick, I initially registered for one reason, simply to rebut the hypocrisy.

Given that Apple has made it's name on being "different" and going against what the "ignorant majority" does, for mrogers to argue that, because 80% of global wireless users are on the GSM standard, it was the right choice for Apple, was just too overwhelmingly ironic (and hypocritical) to let slide.

Earlier today, when I first got word the device had launched, I assumed that Apple would launch the device with both GSM HSDPA/UMTS (400-700 kbps) data connectivity and with backward compatibility to GSM EDGE (50-70 kbps) data connectivity. The fact that it's not going to run on GSM's HSDPA/UMTS true 3G platform makes it a non-starter from a wireless data standpoint.

The Samsung i700 and other CDMA devices have been running at 60-80 kbps on CDMA 1XRTT networks for well over 3 years. CDMA EVDO PDAs have been connecting at (400-700 kbps) in most metro areas around the US for the last couple of years. Lots of Cingular PDAs have been running on EDGE (at 50-70 kbps) for years as well. I just "assumed" that with such a ground-breaking, highly anticipated device like this, it would have all of the latest bells and whistles; which beg the questions, "Where is Cingular's HSDPA/UMTS 3G data network and why doesn't the iPhone have it?"

well, i think apple is great at usability design and fabulous at PR.
the inside stuff u talked about haven't really attract ppl's attention yet, apple is doing business, so i understand they compromise with cingular, its up to individual user to decide if they want to buy it, even if they make their choice when not understand the architecture and only attracted to usability and catching design, so be it. its free market, some ppl want to sell, some ppl want to buy, can't complain, maybe functionaly, or some tech standardly speaking, it might not be that great.

 

[dvkid]

There was some rumbling about Apple releasing this product unbranded and free from any particular cell provider but that product would likely cost 200 to 300 dollars more. Cingular is kicking money back to Apple which means we get the product for cheaper.

Also, the Cingular guy on the keynote made mention of deals lasting "years and years" as well as Apple and Cingular not only partnering but developing new technologies together (such as the new voicemail system) which seems to hint at an ongoing relationship with Cingular. This does not necessarily mean that the iPhone will remain locked to Cingular for terribly long, but it makes one wonder.

 

[Whistleway]

would that be legal to unlock the phone?

Yup. But you are under contract for 2 years nonetheless.

 

[Hoosierdaddy]

Thanks...

well, i think apple is great at usability design and fabulous at PR.
the inside stuff u talked about haven't really attract ppl's attention yet, apple is doing business, so i understand they compromise with cingular, its up to individual user to decide if they want to buy it, even if they make their choice when not understand the architecture and only attracted to usability and catching design, so be it. its free market, some ppl want to sell, some ppl want to buy, can't complain, maybe functionaly, or some tech standardly speaking, it might not be that great.

Thanks for not clobbering me with Apple clone speak. You sound intelligent and a realist. The device is sleek and powerful. I has a lot of up side. I am sure that Verizon's partnerships (on the Treo 700 series and V-Cast music) with the "Devil" made it impossible (probably legally and PR-wise)for them to also partner with Apple at this time. So it makes sense that Cingular might be the next logical partner. I'm sure future revs. will include the GSM HSDPA connectivity.

 

[AdamL]

Only reason I'm a bit down about it is that I have Sprint. lol Eventually though it seems I will be switching over to Cingular. No complaining here.

 

[clevin]

Yup. But you are under contract for 2 years nonetheless.

lol, then whats the point , u gonna pay each month anyway.....

 

[Whistleway]

Here's why iPhone's go-to-market strategy is really messed up.

First off, early adopters are going to be only mac users. Other smart phone users demand compatibility with the existing software for windows/palm. Corporate smart phone users wont touch this phone at all.

So, at least for a couple of years, the only reasonable target is mac users, who love the it-just-works concept and those who can shell out 500+ on a mobile. On top of that, only those who use cingular or want to switch to cingular are going to be interested.

In short, this device as it is marketed right now, they are not going to get their projected 1% worldwide market share by 2008. It just not going to happen, and it is typical overdoing apple style. Steve or not.

It is just so sad that such a wonderful technology is such a no-starter because of their marketing

 

[clevin]

Thanks for not clobbering me with Apple clone speak. You sound intelligent and a realist. The device is sleek and powerful. I has a lot of up side. I am sure that Verizon's partnerships (on the Treo 700 series and V-Cast music) with the "Devil" made it impossible (probably legally and PR-wise)for them to also partner with Apple at this time. So it makes sense that Cingular might be the next logical partner. I'm sure future revs. will include the GSM HSDPA connectivity.

no p, i agree, many ppl don't like cingular, and they are solidifying old tech, but its still the biggest carriar now, Jobs avoided many details about the tech and hardwares in this phone, and no revealing detail on website neither, so we will have to wait to find out more.

 

[Hoosierdaddy]

You Nailed It!

Here's why iPhone's go-to-market strategy is really messed up.

First off, early adopters are going to be only mac users. Other smart phone users demand compatibility with the existing software for windows/palm. Corporate smart phone users wont touch this phone at all.

So, at least for a couple of years, the only reasonable target is mac users, who love the it-just-works concept and those who can shell out 500+ on a mobile. On top of that, only those who use cingular or want to switch to cingular are going to be interested.

In short, this device as it is marketed right now, they are not going to get their projected 1% worldwide market share by 2008. It just not going to happen, and it is typical overdoing apple style. Steve or not.

It is just so sad that such a wonderful technology is such a no-starter because of their marketing

You nailed it! If 2.8% of PC users world-wide have a MAC and that percentage holds true for at&t (formerly Cingular) customers, then 2.8 pct. of at&t customers (1.624 million subscribers) is the target audience for this device. Very narrow demographic.

 

[Artofilm]

Here's why iPhone's go-to-market strategy is really messed up.

First off, early adopters are going to be only mac users. Other smart phone users demand compatibility with the existing software for windows/palm. Corporate smart phone users wont touch this phone at all.

So, at least for a couple of years, the only reasonable target is mac users, who love the it-just-works concept and those who can shell out 500+ on a mobile. On top of that, only those who use cingular or want to switch to cingular are going to be interested.

In short, this device as it is marketed right now, they are not going to get their projected 1% worldwide market share by 2008. It just not going to happen, and it is typical overdoing apple style. Steve or not.

It is just so sad that such a wonderful technology is such a no-starter because of their marketing

I love when ppl ignore the fact that Apple Inc. is a hardened company. They think that Apple knows nothing about marketing, and that their products wont fly.
This is even said when products, like the iPod have taken almost the exact same path as this one will, yet, this one wont fly.

You have to remember, apple almost closed business a while back because they made some mistakes, they have seen what not to do.
I think Apple knows exactly what ppl want. Afterall, isn't that why we're all on this site in the first place?

 

[freeny]

I wanted a widescreen iPod for 16 hours on a plane and I'm supposed to load movies and tv shows and songs and games on 8 gig?

Give me a break.

Just hold yer' horses there!

20 bucks says a large capacity "video ipod" is just around the courner.... sans the phone of course.

 

[SMM]

Look, I don't have a dog in this fight. I'm just offering information for everyone's benefit. Until a friend e-mailed me today, I didn't even know this device was in the works. When I clicked the link to the forums page my friend sent me. I started checking out the posts just so I could learn about the device. My interest was peaked when I read mrogers' post. The irony in mrogers argument was so thick, I initially registered for one reason, simply to rebut the hypocrisy.

Given that Apple has made it's name on being "different" and going against what the "ignorant majority" does, for mrogers to argue that, because 80% of global wireless users are on the GSM standard, it was the right choice for Apple, was just too overwhelmingly ironic (and hypocritical) to let slide.

Earlier today, when I first got word the device had launched, I assumed that Apple would launch the device with both GSM HSDPA/UMTS (400-700 kbps) data connectivity and with backward compatibility to GSM EDGE (50-70 kbps) data connectivity. The fact that it's not going to run on GSM's HSDPA/UMTS true 3G platform makes it a non-starter from a wireless data standpoint.

The Samsung i700 and other CDMA devices have been running at 60-80 kbps on CDMA 1XRTT networks for well over 3 years. CDMA EVDO PDAs have been connecting at (400-700 kbps) in most metro areas around the US for the last couple of years. Lots of Cingular PDAs have been running on EDGE (at 50-70 kbps) for years as well. I just "assumed" that with such a ground-breaking, highly anticipated device like this, it would have all of the latest bells and whistles; which beg the questions, "Where is Cingular's HSDPA/UMTS 3G data network and why doesn't the iPhone have it?"

Sorry, but I do not find your story believable. Why do you even care? You did not even know it was in the works, right? Anyone paying attention to Apple has known a phone was a fairly forgone conclusion. Yet, you also claim to know enough about Apple to discern hypocrisy from another poster. But, your final statement is clearly to your point, "...why doesn't the iPhone have it?"

 

[Whistleway]

I love when ppl ignore the fact that Apple Inc. is a hardened company. They think that Apple knows nothing about marketing, and that their products wont fly.
This is even said when products, like the iPod have taken almost the exact same path as this one will, yet, this one wont fly.

You have to remember, apple almost closed business a while back because they made some mistakes, they have seen what not to do.
I think Apple knows exactly what ppl want. Afterall, isn't that why we're all on this site in the first place?

I have to disagree with you on this one. iPod became a super hit not because of its technical superiority or interface or integration as some experts would lead others believe.

It was a cultural icon. It was trendy, it became a fashion accessory. Infact, I would say that iPod ear phones saved Apple's stock

I am not saying that this product won't succeed, I am just merely pointing out that Apple has bit too much for its own good. It is likely that it won't be able to chew it.

Since I am drunk, I will add more to it.

iPod business had to depend on the content from others (iTunes providers). iPhone has to depend on others for pipes/network. But, that's where the similarities end. At the time iPod was introduced, it had no major competition. And the media was available vastly through p2p. And so folks could buy iPod and load it with thousands of songs. Yeah, everyone uses mobile. It is a very mature market with not many really that interested in more advanced functions that making a call. Steve would make you believe that people just punch in numbers (as he calls "last century"). I have never seen anyone do that. And it is likely you haven't seen anyone either. Besides, US mobile providers are vastly trenched in old ways and their business model of razor-blade is very profitable. There is no need for them to change it either so that folks can just swap SIM cards like the rest of the world. It is so profitable that the companies are just buying each other like crazy. Besides, in the smart phone market, heavy weights have infiltrated corporate world, that is very likely, Apple would never get any hold of that market. And we all know Apple's competency in corporate selling. And add to the top of that, iPhone distribution is so limited to just 50MM subscribers of Cingular and is priced so freaking high compared to others. Blackberry as steve would have lead to believe costing $299, can be had at Amazon for $49. And on top of that obnoxious charges charged by mobile companies for data plans ($20-30/mo) is just way out too much for the intended target segment.

Don't get me wrong, it is a great great product with freaking innovative technology. But, until, the common man can get his hands on it and enjoy it, it is just another techno toy. And as it stands right now, iPhone cannot be compared to iPod and making those comparisons border ridiculousness. Things might change very soon, Apple might open up and let other networks come in. It might be subsidized to make it more affordable. It might just catch consumers imagination. But from the folks, I talked to, they are quite happy with the phones and networks they have and see no reason why they would even want to shell out anything more than $200.

 

[bossind]

I think

This is the first phone, it’s a fantastic start and it will evolve.

The price is fair, no difference than the blackberries and with cell contracts the price will be cheaper just as it is with any cell phone or PDA phone thingy.

It runs OSX so I’m sure apps will be developed for it such Word and excel, and 100s more – I don’t see this as being a concern but a given.

Frig a Nano cost almost 300 bucks for the same storage, whats a little more to get a phone, camera and internet… Hell the dam thing is a computer!

Steve said it works with PC and Mac – so that’s not an issue. Wasn’t anyone paying attention?

I’m buying one, I’ll be part of that 1% market, yeah one in 10 million users! They’ll do it, and than sum.

 

[freeny]

All this service provider bitching is really getting tired.
ALL providers suck!
There is NO magic solution!
Either buy the phone along with its provider or dont!

Whining about it isnt going to change anything!

 

[BWhaler]

Verizon/ Sprint = No GSM

No GSM = Limited Global Opportunity (without creating multiple models)

Truth is it is a GSM world. And by making it work on all 4 GSM networks, Apple is targeting the largest potential market with one technology choice.

Yes, Cingular sucks. Cingular sucks something fierce. (I have used them as AT&T, Cingular, etc, for every year I have owned a phone.)

But you can't blame Apple for making a great technology decision. Plus, calling Verizon or Sprint "good" is all relative. It's like saying, "it's the best school food."

It's all relative, and the truth of the matter is that all carriers in the US suck, treat their customers like dirt, and behave like an industry without competition. Yes, Cingular is the worst and a total disgrace of a company, but they have the right technology and were the best pick for Apple. Again, not a great choice, but the selection was pretty grim to begin with.

 

[California]

It's too expensive. Jobs musta realized that with the lackluster applause he got after price points were revealed.

I guess he doesn't want to alienate all the video ipodders who laid down big bucks for the 80gb models. But by next year, the prices have to drop.

Anyone know how Apple got the patent on the name iPhone away from that other company that trademarked it?

 

[anirban]

I am really happy that the phone is a quad-band GSM... I travel around the globe a lot, and this will definitely be an advantage to me.. I switched from Sprint to Cingular only because I prefered GSM service about 3 years ago, and its been a great help when I travel abroad, just swap the SIM card, and I am good to go!