iPhone 3G: First Impressions (Day 1)
When Apple announced the 3G iPhone a few weeks ago, I decided it was probably time to consider the purchase of one. With the first generation, I figured it was probably best to wait and see how it developed, and just a year later, here we are at 3G.
On Tuesday (July 22), I made a trip to the local AT&T store and placed a direct order fulfillment for the phone. I was told it would take 5-7 days, maybe weeks, even. That evening, I remembered to check Apple’s iPhone stock availability web site (why didn’t I think of this the night before?) To my surprise, the Apple store at Denver’s Cherry Creek mall had stock for all three 3G models.
Ready to for 3G madness
Early Wednesday morning, I decided I’d try my luck at purchasing an 8GB iPhone 3G phone. I started my day really early with a good breakfast at The Delectable Egg at 6:30, then caught the 83L to Cherry Creek at 7:18am. I arrived at the mall at about 7:30 and I figured I’d have issues with entering the mall. Well, not at all! The mall doors were — To my surprise — already open! (The mall opens at 10 am and the same is true for the Apple store).
Sit and wait, buddy!
When I reached the vicinity of the Apple store, I was immediately greeted with a crowd of at least 35 people at 7:30! I’m not sure why, but I assumed the line would be pretty small, but I guess those folks already in line knew something I didn’t: The store would open at 8 am instead of 10!
At 8 am, the doors opened and the line started moving. Apple employees were preparing iPhone buyers before they entered the store, handing out purchase tickets, taking down pertinent information, etc. At about 8:45 am, an Apple employee stated that stock was running “really low” on the 8GB model. Then, moments later, he announced that they were completely out of stock. Of course, I decided on purchasing the 16GB model (much to blowing away my initial budget for this phone).
8GB reappears
While I pondered the additional cost of the 16GB model (I’m really just a frugal guy), another Apple employee stated that a few 8GB models were available. I immediately got on the list.
It’s in my hands
At about 10:30, the purchase of my iPhone and activation was complete. This marks the first Apple product I’ve ever owned and I must tell you, it’s a great experience! Much to my own surprise, I didn’t allow the inner geek (and kid) within to take over the moment. I patiently waited until I arrived home to fully unbox the unit and customize it to my liking. I’ve been enamored with it ever since.
Love at first byte
I think the iPhone 3G is a wonderful innovation. I consider the purchase of this phone as an investment, rather than a financial liability. Its value will pay for itself in the matter of days, because my productivity will increase tenfold. Thanks to the iPhone, carrying my laptop wherever I go is now optional, because I have access to everything I need: E-mail, Twitter, etc.
The first day has been filled with awe and admiration. I’ll definitely be ‘kicking the tires’ over the next few days and familiarizing myself with the operation of it. Honestly, I’m already ‘comfortable’ with this device. There really isn’t a learning curve at all, but there are things that will take some time to adjust to and will become second nature over time.
Overall, kudos to Apple. I’m happy to be a new iPhone owner and Apple customer.
(Note to Apple: You’ve gotta take an ‘open source’ approach with the development community and your customers. No walled Apple tree gardens, please? It wouldn’t be wise to stifle the innovation of the iPhone due to politics, backroom agreeements with AT&T, etc.)
Bicycle Mania in Denver
Just ran across this crowd of bicycles tonight on 16th street mall. There were at least 150 bikes!
Testing Wordpress for iPhone
First post from new iPhone 3g!
Back from Michigan: A Necessary Trip
Over the weekend, I made an unplanned trip to Michigan to discuss family matters, visit with friends, etc. It turns out that I actually missed a family reunion (shows you how much I’m “out of the loop” on many things). It was a refreshing trip and the few days I spent there were well worth it.
I returned to Denver last night with an even better outlook on life, my family and my journey. Right now, I feel at peace on many things.
Hope you had a great weekend.
Stuffed. Immobile. Satisfied.
Just got home from having a late dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. Goodness. I didn’t realize how much food I’d be up against. However, it was DELICIOUS! I’ll probably fall asleep at any moment now …