The new iPhone goes on sale next week…
So, this is the second technology review ever on BackWords, and once again for an Apple product. I know this is not a tech site, but as all of my Back Together resources are created on Apple devices, and they place a large emphasis on ergonomics and user friendliness, I didn’t think it was too off topic.
This week, I was finally able to touch an iPhone 4. I should tell you right off that my iPhone 3G NEVER leaves my side, and has been one of the most reliable and rewarding pieces of technology I have ever used- and was going to be a hard act to follow. The iPhone 4 is a tactile masterpiece- it feels more like a piece of jewelry than a phone- very solid and meticulously manufactured. We are off to a good start.
Now the ergonomics of a phone are not usually of a whole lot of concern- they all pretty much handle the same way (particularly ‘smartphones’-which are held in one hand, and operated with the other. In this case the equation changes somewhat, due to the introduction of 2 things: The iPad, and the new iPhone operating system.
I really wanted an iPad- REALLY wanted one. But as I stated in my review, I was perplexed by the absence of a front-facing camera. I understood not putting a photo or video camera on the back- the size and form factor would make operation awkward at best. A front facing camera would allow video chat and, for my purposes, the recording of video blog entries. Without the front facing camera, the iPad- while extremely cool- did not permit me to leave my notebook computer at home- and since it didn’t do anything that I needed (largely because I still needed to carry my computer and phone anyway) I did not get one. And this is where the ergonomics of the iPhone 4 come in…
The iPhone 4 has a front-facing camera, a significantly upgraded rear-facing photo and video camera, the new operating system which permits true multitasking, and most importantly for my purposes, the ability to sync with a bluetooth capable keyboard. Essentially, there is enough computing power here to allow me to leave my notebook computer home! With the iPhone 4 (and the WordPress application for example- the system which runs this very blog) I am able to do much of the work I do on my computer from a Phone instead. I can pack a lightweight keyboard with me for creating longer documents- a VIOLA- I am in business. And, with the improved email client, and other upgrades, I suspect many others will find it possible to leave their computer at home.
In short: LESS WEIGHT CARRIED AROUND = LESS BACK & NECK PAIN and LESS LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY!!!!
Now- it is not a perfect solution for not carrying around your notebook. The small screen will likely cause you to have to tilt your head/neck to accommodate its size, and as of yet there are no bluetooth keyboards with an integrated stand to make it a more user friendly package (although I suspect there may be some coming down the pike.) One thing- I understand there will be a way to output movies to a TV, but as of yet there is no way to hook the iPhone 4 up a TV or screen to run its applications- That would allow you to set up an ergonomic workstation at home or at work (or both) and still only need to carry the lightweight device around with you.
These are, in my opinion, a reasonable trade-off for not having to carry around a 6-7 pound computer.
Other than that, there’s not much to say that you don’t already know: The screen is magnificent, the A4 processor is fast, and while I couldn’t check it out- the battery life is supposed to be significantly longer. All good things. There’s still no Flash, and based upon the war-of-words going on between Apple and Adobe, I don’t suspect it’s coming any time soon.
In short, I have not been this excited about a new piece of technology since the original iPhone release. While that one was amazing- this one solves several problems for me, and will make travel to and from work, to the hospital, (or anywhere else for that matter) significantly easier. I suspect that many of you may find the same benefits. See you in line at the Apple store next week!!
Be well!
-Andy
