The baap of all phones has finally arrived. The much-awaited iPhone is God's gift to the working professional. And it is not only because of its revolutionary drop-dead design, mind-blowing interface or the touch-screen technology that is a rare find in modern day phones. To top it all, it is brought to you by the iconic brand, Apple. With its smart marketing, Time Magazine's 'Invention of the year 2007,' is effectively creating a frenzy around the globe.

Out of the 50 celebrities we spoke to (you can check them out on the cover), 38 and counting have already bought or booked the iPhone.  
However, experts say that shelling out Rs 31k (or Rs 36k for the 16 GB version) for a phone that you cannot use in its full capability in India seems tad foolhardy.
If you are one of those who have coveted the iPhone for some time now, here's what you should also consider about this mobile miracle:

No video recording
There's no need to explain why something so simple and basic like this function is taken for granted in the times of Nokias, Samsungs, Sony-Ericssons, etc. Video recording is one of the main features that one expects from any smart phone these days. Most cellphone models are competing with each other to offer the best lenses, resolution and auto focus'. Sadly, this feature is missing here

MMS capability and SMS forward
In our country the usage of SMS and MMS are more than network calls. But iPhone does not support MMS services. You also cannot do something as simple as forward an SMS. Go figure. This is something that one takes for granted in any other phone. But look at it this way, at least this cell phone discourages people from forwarding all those terrible jokes and shayari

A2DP stereo headset not supported
What's the point of having a great media player if one does not have an A2DP wireless stereo headset connectivity? In today's age of Bluetooth stereo headsets, you are going to be stuck with a cord connecting you and your phone

No 3G. So what are you paying a packet for?
Presently 3G network capability does not exist in the country. So you will not be able to utilise the full capabilities of this handset for some more time. And just how many places in Mumbai have free Wi-Fi network? It's like buying a Ferrari and trying to drive it in a village. Doesn't make sense, does it?

Pricing
This is the killer one. The iPhone is by far one of the most expensive smart phones in the Indian market. If you are shelling Rs 36,000 for the 16GB version, you better want it badly. Last heard, due to the 'overwhelming' response to the phone here, the service providers are considering setting up instalment schemes of 6 or 12 months to 'help' you buy it

Network lock
Ok, so I have gone through all the above. I understand that this is a unique phone and I don't mind paying its full cost. But why should my phone be locked to either Airtel or Vodafone? Do they own my phone or do I? Abroad, handsets are locked to specific networks because they are subsidised by the service providers. (Reliance guys have been doing this over here quite successfully till date.) But that is not the case here

Well, in spite of the few reasons above, the iPhone is the one of the most innovative devices that have come out in recent times. The coolness factor is way up there. The sheer pleasure in using the touch sensor navigation is itself worth the price. You get one, rest assured, you will be the centre of attention of any gathering. Just make sure you arrive before another iPhone owner does !

Why Business phones are so hot
 "Blackberry is a superb phone. It keeps you connected all the time. The best thing is that it's superfast. This phone is best for people who're travelling most of time. The email software is one big advantage in this phone."   
- Arjun Khanna, fashion designer

"BB came into my life like a blessing in disguise. It helps me stay in touch with people and surf the net at my will inspite of my hectic schedule... One unique feature that I love about the BB is its messenger service. BB has made my life easier and I am completely hooked to it"
- Sameera Reddy, Actress

"I think Blackberry is a very convenient phone, especially for people who're always on the move. The best thing about this phone is its email software. It's very quick. I bought this phone mainly for browsing
purposes."
- Pushpinder Singh CEO, Jumbo King vada pav

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