10 Apple iPhone First Impressions: Innovation, Glaring Flaws

5. Its design is nice, but flawed

When comparing the iPhone 4 to the iPhone 3GS, one thing immediately came to mind: The iPhone 4 is a far heftier device. In fact, it's noticeably heavier than previous versions of the iPhone. It's also a far more beautiful device than anything Apple has offered in the smartphone market to this point. But there is one major issue with the iPhone 4's design: Because it's so heavy and its design is so compact, I constantly feel like I'll drop it and it will shatter across the floor. It's not the best of feelings.

6. iOS 4 is a major step forward

As iPhone 3G and 3GS users know, iOS 4 is arguably the best mobile operating system ever released. The device's use of multitasking works quite well, but it should be noted that turning off different apps by holding a finger down on individual programs is a pain. Apple's use of folders is simply outstanding and makes for a more productive use of the operating system. Even the little things like an improved mail and spell-checking functionality come in extremely handy in the software. Simply put, iPhone 3G and 3GS owners should be downloading iOS 4 as soon as possible. It really is that good.

7. The screen looks small

It might be a small gripe considering how beautiful it is, but the iPhone 4's display looks awfully small. The device, which boasts a 3.5-inch display, certainly accommodates different apps and it doesn't lessen the user's ability to type out messages, but considering the Droid X and Evo 4G feature a 4.3-inch display, the iPhone 4 looks like a hobbled alternative. Of course, there's more to a display than its size, but after using the Evo 4G, some folks might start wondering why Apple didn't deliver a bigger display with its latest iPhone.

8. Camera quality is good, not ideal

The iPhone 4's camera is a significant step up over the iPhone 3GS. It creates much higher-quality pictures than previous iterations of the device. And for most consumers, it will work just fine. That said, professional photographers will have some trouble with the camera, since it does wash out people in the image with its overzealous flash from time to time. The iPhone 4's camera is nice and most should be happy to see its quality improved, but more advanced photographers will quickly realize that it leaves much to be desired.

9. It's a perfect device for on-the-go travelers

The iPhone 4 is perfectly designed for those who need a device that will slip into their pockets and be available for when they need to check e-mail, surf the Web or make calls. Unlike the latest BlackBerry models, which are extremely large and heavy, and feature physical keys that can be inadvertently pressed, the iPhone 4 is ideally suited for travel. Not only will users not need to worry about keys being pressed, but the device is small yet substantial enough to be safe in a person's pocket or purse. It's perfect for mobile users.

10. It's the best iPhone yet

With all of its faults, the iPhone 4 is simply the best smartphone Apple has ever released. Although its antenna problems are major and should be addressed, the device's Retina display is second to none. And the sheer care that was put into both its hardware and software design makes it an obvious choice for both consumers and enterprise customers who want something new. The iPhone 4 runs on AT&T's network, which isn't ideal, but it makes up for it with the best call sound quality Apple has ever put out. Apple's iPhone 4 is a must-have for anyone looking for a next-generation smartphone. It's as simple as that.