Apple's first iPhone was a critical and commercial success, but lacked the ability to connect to a 3G network. The follow-up model, iPhone 3G, corrected this omission while increasing storage space. The revised iPhone has several new features which make the device an attractive option when compared with other smart phones, such as Research in Motion's 3G capable Blackberry 8830 World Edition smart phone.
Network
Apple's iPhone 3G improves upon the previous model by offering 3G support on a GSM network. RIM's Blackberry 8830 offers similar 3G support, although on a CDMA network when used in the United States. Apple's iPhone continues to offer WiFi support, which grants Apple an edge over competing smart phone models, such as the 8830.
International Roaming
Both the iPhone and the Blackberry 8830 offer international roaming. Because the Blackberry 8830 is a dual mode phone and offers both GSM and CDMA network capabilities, users can move about the globe freely. Apple's iPhone offers only GSM capability, which is supported in most countries. Additional fees often apply for international roaming.
Multimedia
Although the Blackberry 8830 has audio and video playback capabilities, the iPhone's screen is larger with better resolution. Because of the superior screen, video and images are more easily viewed on the device. Both Apple and Research in Motion utilize proprietary software to load music to the device, however, only Apple offers the iTunes music store where you can purchase music and movies.
Applications
RIM's App World application was created to respond to Apple's popular App Store. Apple developed a significant head start in this particular market, and therefore has a much more diverse collection of applications for users to choose from. However, there are also RIM applications that are not available on the iPhone.
Storage
The iPhone 3G comes with either 8 GB or 16 GB, depending on how much the consumer is willing to spend. The iPhone does not accept memory cards, and so its memory is not upgradeable. The 8830 comes with 64MB of flash memory which is expandable to 1 GB with the addition of an SD memory card.
Tags: Blackberry 8830, Apple iPhone, CDMA network, comes with, international roaming, Research Motion, smart phone
