Apple has just announced the new iPhone, a hybrid mix between a modern mobile phone and iPod mp3/video player. First impressions? It looks like a nice toy, a new gadget to google over. Let’s admit, the damn thing is sharp to look at. It’s got no buttons, just a touchscreen! Of course, it has the traditional features that you would expect from a cell phone, like making/receiving phone calls, SMS messages, voicemail and taking photos with its built-in 2MP camera. The keyboard for SMS messaging is great… it’s a virtual keyboard that appears right on the touchscreen.

The mp3 features are probably the same as you would expect from Apple’s traditional iPod line. And with 4GB or 8GB of storage, you have plenty of space for your mp3 and video files. With a 3.5-inch display, you’ve got ample viewing area to watch those downloaded videos/TV shows. The best part… it’s Wi-Fi, meaning that if you’re in the range of a wireless network, you probably could receive internet phone calls (ie. Skype, etc.) On top of all these features, it runs OS X as an operating system.

Now this is all great, especially to a Mac gadget guy like myself. But what’s the price? Rumour has it that this phone will sell around the 600 - 700 dollar US price range. That’s a bit high for the average middle class working person like myself. After working 60 hours a week to put food on the table for the family, I certainly don’t need to plop down two weeks worth of salary to buy an overpriced mobile phone. Let’s face it, all I want to do is make and receive phone calls with my phone, maybe even take a couple of photos, depending on the situation. I really don’t need a built-in 8GB video/mp3 player. But there will be those out there who will love this phone, especially those who work and travel many hours a week. For them, it might be comforting to know that all their contacts, entertainment and connectivity/networking is all bundled in one place (just don’t lose the phone or have it stolen).

Take a good look for yourself:
Apple’s new iPhone