The new iPhone 4 was released in the US on June 24 and in Australia on July 30th. Apple’s latest iPhone 4 is basically two glass sheets held together by a thin metal band. The metal band acts as the phone’s antenna for phone calls, Wi-Fi and bluetooth.

Recent reports out of the US have highlighted issues when covering the left bottom corner of the metal band resulting in loss of signal strength. The loss of signal has not resulted in dropped calls and using a phone case makes the issue disappear. The issue has not affected iPhone sales with stock shortages reported across the US and UK. Apple is currently offering Australian iphone purchasers a free case.

iPhone 4 facts:

• The iPhone 4 is 9.3mm thick, 24% thinner than the iPhone 3GS.
• Has a 960 x 680 pixel high resolution screen, which is actually 4 times better than the 3GS, to make apps, web pages, emails and images look even better.
• 5 megapixel camera with built in LED flash that shoots high definition video at 720p and 30 frames per second.
• Uses the same A4 processor as found in the iPad so applications open faster and functions are performed quicker.
• Has video calling capability with a front facing camera.
• Features a 6 axis gyroscope for movement of objects on the screen.
• Includes a bigger battery that gives up to 40% more usage between charges.

The iPhone 4 has aluminosilicate glass on both the front and the back. The glass is a thermal and shock resistant material that is thirty times harder than plastic and is extremely scratch resistant.

 

iPhone 4 Cost and Plans

Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and 3 Mobile have all launched a range of new iPhone 4 pricing plans. All four companies are offering the $859 phone for free on two year contracts which include significant internet allowances.

• Optus is offering the 16Gb iPhone 4 for free on a $59 cap over 24 months. The largest 32Gb model is being offered on a $79 cap, including $800 in calls and 2Gb of downloads.
• Telstra gives its customers a free 16Gb iPhone4 on its $79 cap or a free 32Gb iPhone4 on its $99 plan over 2 years.
• Vodafone and 3 Mobile offer a free 16Gb iPhone on a $69 plan and a 32Gb iPhone on a $79 plan.