Thinkin' on your stomach.

Firstly, NO. I'm not a raving, ranting, Apple fan. 

 

Why 'magical' then?. Because, the iPhone, latest in the array of Apple's products, seems to have 'revolutionizing potential'. Much like the iPod a few years back, which has gone on to sell billions, changing the way we listen to music.

The iPhone was unveiled just a day back by Steve Jobs at the MacWorld Expo - 07 in San Francisco. The 2000-strong audience was treated to a mesmerizing display of features by the 'legendary perfectionist' (as the Economist would prefer to call Jobs). Not surprisingly, the iPod is integrated into the iPhone,though in the widescreen variety, along with internet streaming and other communication features; emails, Google Maps, searches to name a few. The entire screen, but for one button, is activated by touch.

The host of features that it offers as a phone in itself, is quite commendable. Indeed, Mr. Jobs was able to send the crowd into 'oohs' and 'aahs' as he demonstrated the power of touchscreen technology assimilated into the phone. For the frequent SMSers, the entire computer QWERTY keyboard is built within the iPhone system, making it incredibly easy for the average computer user to send a message. The camera too is an essential feature, one of 2 Megapixels, conjoint with a user-friendly photo management application. And to put it in very least, making calls (the original, forgotten purpose for which mobiles were ACTUALLY invented), has never been more easier.

Sounds like the panacea to the ails in communications industry? the Killer Mobile? Not Quite.

Price has not always been one of Apple's USPs, irrespective of the cult following the company has. Apparently, this beauty is going to cost $499 for 4 GB, with an extra $100 for another, additional 1GB. Not the cheapest, yes, in a market that is dominated by cost-effective 'smartphones' from Nokia, Motorola and others. Another problem that Apple faces is the sale factor. A mobile phone, as all users are aware, is rarely sold from the manufacturer. Seldom do you see a Nokia or a Motorola outlet. The retailers who finally sell it, in all probability, reduce prices through discounts et al. Apple is yet to find a retailer that could cope with the huge price tag of the iPhone. In fact, the stage invitation handed out to the CEO of Cingular, a US-based operator, during the phone demo, could go to mean something very significant.

To demonstrate the iPod features, the famous Beatles song, Lovely Rita, from Sgt. Peppers..was played.

The Apple website says that the iPhone would, ".. usher in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, completely redefining what you can do on a mobile phone. "

Well. We'll see.