As the date of the launch of the 3GiPhone gets closer, industry sources are growing increasingly worried over the snags they might have to deal with. The launch of the iconic phone in several countries on July 11 was marred by glitches.
Not only did the iTunes server crash, but several buyers also could not activate their handsets for hours.
In the US
When millions of customers in the US tried activating their phones inside the AT&T stores (the service provider there), they experienced problems, which persisted for hours. A frustrated blogger wrote, "Server problems turned this year's iPhone 3G launch into an exercise in patience for Apple fans and employees, as eager buyers faced waits of up to two hours to get their iPhone 3Gs activated in Apple stores and many left with iPhone 3Gs in hand, but the activation process incomplete."
In the UK
Customers in the UK faced problems when they tried logging into the iTunes website through the O2 portal, the official partner of iPhone there. But as the O2 website is Microsoft based while iTunes is Mac based, there were problems loading the website.
In India?
This problem is expected in India too. Though sources in Vodafone and Airtel claimed there would be a different website for iPhone users to make downloading of applications and softwares easier, they didn't specify how they planned to overcome the incompatibility between Apple products and Microsoft-based applications.
The most worrisome factor is the Internet speed in India, which is very poor when compared to that in the US,
UK and Germany. "When the iTunes server crashes with just thousands logging into it in the US, the Internet connection in India will add to Apple's worries when they launch it here," said a senior official from Vodafone.
The oomph factor
- The Application Store is one online destination that Apple users will get addicted to. From applications like Facebook and silly games to serious learning stuff, you will find lots here. Some applications are free, others and paid for, depending on the developer. An Apple representative said security wasn't a concern, as all applications are tested before they are hosted for download.
- Download mail on to your phone. Why do you need a computer if you're just using it for e-mail and browsing?
- The camera has superb clarity. We're afraid it might replace the small digital cameras completely.
The oops factor
- India doesn't have 3G yet. So, the phone is a little ahead of its time.
- Keeping the 3G option on (even though you can't use it) drains the battery faster. Remember to switch it off.
- Don't sell your computer after getting the phone. A slow connection GPRS or WiFi can make it really frustrating to surf on the phone.
- The virtual keyboard is nice, but you have to train your fingers to use it well.
- You can't switch service providers.
No Bluetooth?
- The Bluetooth option on the iPhone doesn't allow you to connect to other phones
- But the iPhone can find Bluetooth headsets around it. This means you can hear music without wires.
- Want to send something to a friend? Try using the email attachment option instead.
What they learnt
I have already registered for the iPhone and will get it in the coming days. I advise people to wait for the phone to be officially launched because all the applications will work fine then.
Bobby Deol, actor
I am very comfortable with Nokia handsets. I will not buy the new iPhone.
Tushar Kapoor, actor
I have used an iPhone in the past, which I bought from the grey market. Though my experience has not been really good, I presume it is because I could not use it to the optimum earlier. I will surely buy the new phone.
Abhinay Dev, ad maker
It was a gift. Once all the features are activated, I think I will be able to use it to the fullest. I am excited about the new version, but the price is too high. I will wait for some time before buying the 3G version.
Shrishti Arya, filmmaker
The phone is good, but since my fingers are broad I was not able to use it well. I have discontinued using it, as it was not worth using a product bought from the grey market. I will surely buy the new iPhone 3G when the 3G services start in India next year.
Chetan Hansraj, TV actor
