FAQ on justifying your iPhone Purchase
Disclaimer: This post is dedicated to those who already have decided to purchase an iPhone. I will attempt to compile some commonly asked questions in regards to the first generation, current and possibly upcoming iPhone. However as time goes by or if I stumbled across more questions, I will add them here. Please feel free to PM me any sort of suggestions/feed backs.
Q: What are the differences between the first generation and the 3G iPhone (for example, its dimension, battery life et cetera)?
A: For more information, kindly read the first post here. However the most prominent is obviously the 3G data connection speed and the GPS (incorporated to the Maps app and also picture geo-tagging). It is also important to note that, there is no such thing as an officially unlocked first generation iPhone, whilst the 3G version gives you an option; using an officially unlocked iPhone doesn’t require you to play hide and seek with future firmware releases
Q: Is it true that there is a new iPhone model due to be launched this upcoming June?
A: These news are still in a speculative nature, however things are certainly pointing towards a new model. With Steve Jobs making his “maiden” appearance, he should be laden with some unique arsenal to make a grand entrance Confirmed! The new generation iPhone 3GS is out!
Q: I have read regarding the new OS 4.0 with a lot of enthusiasm. I was just wondering if the first generation, 3G and the 3GS iPhone users will be entitled to use that OS, should a new model is imminent?
A: Most definitely! The OS 4.0 is for everyone and the only limitation could be narrowed to your own iPhone hardware capabilities.
Q: Huh? What does that mean then?
A: Currently we know that the OS 4.0 will not support Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) and Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for the first generation of iPhone. We are also anticipating for more disabilities to be “unlocked” as the clock ticks.
Q: Should I just wait for the new iPhone model to be released?
A: I cannot advocate enough regarding this matter; where you should purchase according to your current needs. If you feel that the current 3GS model is sufficient for your consumption, please go ahead with it, and vice versa. It is very nauseating to see this question being asked repeatedly.
Q: What is the difference between purchasing an iPhone 3GS from Maxis and a parallel imported unit?
A: Three words; Warranty, warranty and warranty (and perhaps a peace of mind?)
Q: If I don’t wish to subscribe to a Maxis or Digi contract, do I have the option to go on prepaid?
A: Yes, you can! Right now the iphone 16GB is going for RM 2490, whilst the 32GB goes for RM2960
Q: Will Maxis or Digi be carrying the new model (if there is one)?
A: I don’t know to be honest. But if I could make an assumption; I reckon that Maxis should be now, gauging their current iPhone 3GS sales (whether it could top the 150000 mark) before deciding to embark on another model.
Q: How do I know if iPhone is the correct mobile phone for me?
A: Unfortunately, questions like these are extremely subjective and may differ from one person to another. However, I do recommend that you spend some quality time with one, before passing a quick judgment (judging the book by its cover typically generates an incorrect perspective).
Q: Can you predict the price for the new model (if there is one)?
A: Unfortunately, I am not a psychic. But I can very sure that the prices you see here (in imalaysian.com or even in malls) are extremely misleading and may not reflect the actual value. Everyone loves to make a profit (may it be extortionately or not), hence it is entirely up to you to spot a bargain. There is no point accusing a seller for being conman, as he/she didn’t point a gun to your head, demanding your custom. Maxis and Digi should be announcing their price plans shortly.
Q: I heard that the now obsolete 3GS model 8GB is only gonna cost USD$99 (approximately RM360 the most)? Where can I purchase them?
A: Har dee har har! Nice try!
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Q: Why $199 and $299?
A:Contract subscription to AT&T etc for 2 years and aligible for US citizens only
Q: Can buy iPhone 4 in US and use it here?
A: No. US iPhone units are Locked to specific telcos. You will not be able to use it with our telcos. Option is to unlock by US with a charges.
Q: Why would I spend so much $$$ for an officially unlocked 3G iPhone when i can easily purchase an American bound unit from AT&T for a fraction of the price.
Here are a couple of reasons on why you should NOT purchase these units in favor of unlocking software:
1. Frequent dropped calls during the initiation of conference call
2. Frequent disconnection from the network provider (which may require you to search for the desired network manually thereafter)
3. Unable to make/receive calls (frequent experiences of Call Failure)
4. The upgrading/restoring process is no longer straightforward (requires additional software) and may pose undesirable complications
5. According to the souces, early reports suggest that the 4.0.1 update disables the functionality of these devices; meaning you will not be able to upgrade to future firmwares.
6. You should NOT be a cheapskate to own an iPhone.










