Apple iPhone 3G (Black)

Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 3G is here! As the name suggests, the new iPhone 3G includes high-speed 3G data connectivity, as well as support for 3rd party iPhone software along with other changes, tweaks and improvements.

AT&T Mobility has both EDGE, which the original iPhone uses for relatively slow wireless data connectivity, and HSDPA, a faster, smarter '3G' wireless data technology. The 3G iPhone takes advantage of both EDGE and HSDPA, the latter allowing for web browsing, file downloads, etc., at over 3X the speed of EDGE where HSDPA is available. 

The 3G iPhone supports installation of software written by talent outside of Apple, and this change certainly makes the new iPhone a more interesting choice for many users.  The App Store, which is the only way to install applications on an iPhone, launched in early July 2008 and includes hundreds of software titles, both free and commercial, to augment the functionality of the iPhone.  Original iPhone users can use these applications with a software update.

The iPhone 3G also has onboard GPS, sync for Microsoft Exchange, and support for Apple's MobileMe Push PIM service, an updated and iPhone-friendly version of .mac.

The iPhone 3G has the same 3.5" touchscreen display as its predecessor, but with a thinner in places, thicker in places, rounded design and a new plastic back piece to minimize scratches and improve signal strength. The iPhone 3G is available in 8GB and 16GB capacities, both with solid state flash memory chips. The 8GB version of the iPhone 3G sells for $199, with the 16GB version selling for $299; each price includes a subsidy from AT&T, so you'll have to sign up for two years of service.  See iPhone 3G Rate Plans 

The iPhone 3G is not sold online by Apple or AT&T Mobility; you have to pick one up at the store.  This is also true of BestBuy, which recently began selling the iPhone 3G.  You can purchase an iPhone without visiting a retail store by taking a look at eBay.

  

Link Apple iPhone 3G Accessories Center     Link AT&T Mobility Apple iPhone 3G Rate Plans