Released in June 2009, the iPhone 3GS was Apple’s third-generation iPhone, offering significant performance improvements over its predecessor, the iPhone 3G. The “S” in 3GS stood for Speed, which was the primary focus of this model. The device brought faster processing, improved camera capabilities, video recording, and a host of software upgrades that made it more versatile for users.
Specifications
- Display: 3.5-inch capacitive multi-touch display, 320 x 480 pixels, 163 ppi
- Dimensions: 115.5 x 62.1 x 12.3 mm (4.55 x 2.44 x 0.48 inches)
- Weight: 135 grams (4.8 ounces)
- Storage Options: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB (no external storage)
- Processor: Samsung S5PC100 ARM Cortex-A8 600 MHz
- RAM: 256 MB
- Operating System: iPhone OS 3.0 (upgradable to iOS 6.1.6)
- Camera: 3 MP rear camera, auto-focus, video recording (VGA, 30fps), no front camera
- Battery: 1219 mAh, non-removable, up to 12 hours of talk time on 2G, 5 hours on 3G
- Connectivity: 3G (HSDPA, 7.2 Mbps), Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), Bluetooth 2.1, 30-pin dock connector
- Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity sensor, compass
Design and Build
The iPhone 3GS retained the familiar look and feel of the iPhone 3G, featuring a curved plastic back and a 3.5-inch display. The dimensions were identical to the 3G, but the weight was slightly increased, primarily due to upgraded internal components. Available in black and white, the design remained sleek and user-friendly, with rounded edges that made it comfortable to hold.
While there were no major physical changes, the improvements were mostly under the hood, focusing on speed, functionality, and user experience.
Speed and Performance
The iPhone 3GS was marketed as the fastest iPhone to date. The 600 MHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor was a notable upgrade from the 412 MHz chip in the iPhone 3G. This enhanced processing power, combined with 256 MB of RAM (double the 3G’s memory), made apps load faster, improved multitasking, and offered a smoother overall experience. Web pages loaded more quickly, and animations were more fluid.
The increased processing speed was one of the most significant reasons users upgraded to the 3GS. Whether browsing, gaming, or using more demanding apps, the performance improvement was clear.
Camera and Video Recording
One of the standout upgrades in the iPhone 3GS was the camera. The 3GS featured a 3-megapixel camera with auto-focus and tap-to-focus, a huge improvement over the 2MP fixed-focus camera in the previous models. The new camera produced clearer, sharper photos with better color accuracy.
For the first time, an iPhone could record video—a feature absent from previous models. The iPhone 3GS could record VGA video at 30 frames per second, and the videos could be edited directly on the phone. This addition opened new possibilities for content creators and casual users alike, making video recording more accessible to the masses.
Battery Life
The battery life of the iPhone 3GS was slightly improved compared to the iPhone 3G. With a 1219 mAh battery, the 3GS could deliver:
- Up to 12 hours of talk time on 2G (or 5 hours on 3G)
- Up to 9 hours of internet browsing on Wi-Fi
- Up to 30 hours of audio playback
- Up to 10 hours of video playback
While the battery wasn’t removable, Apple’s optimizations allowed users to get more usage time on a single charge compared to previous models.
Software and iPhone OS 3.0
The iPhone 3GS launched with iPhone OS 3.0, which introduced several new features that expanded the functionality of the device:
- MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) support: Finally, users could send and receive picture messages.
- Voice Control: For the first time, users could control their iPhone with voice commands, enabling tasks like making calls, playing music, and more.
- Cut, Copy, and Paste: A long-awaited feature that made text manipulation easier.
- Spotlight Search: A universal search bar for searching the entire phone for contacts, apps, emails, and more.
The 3GS supported updates up to iOS 6.1.6, which extended the life of the device significantly, bringing new features and apps well after its initial release.
Connectivity and Features
The iPhone 3GS supported 3G connectivity, with speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps on HSDPA, which was faster than the previous 3G model. It also retained support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, and A-GPS for navigation, along with a new digital compass, which was a first for the iPhone line.
The improved compass allowed for more accurate location services, particularly in map applications, and made navigation more user-friendly.
Impact and Reception
The iPhone 3GS was a massive success for Apple, cementing the iPhone’s place as a leader in the smartphone market. It sold over 1 million units in its first weekend and received widespread praise for its speed improvements, video recording capabilities, and the introduction of new software features.
While some critics noted that the design was similar to the iPhone 3G, the internal upgrades were seen as a significant leap forward. The iPhone 3GS paved the way for future iPhone models by focusing on performance enhancements and a more feature-rich user experience.
Legacy
The iPhone 3GS marked the transition from a novelty smartphone to a high-performance device that could handle more complex tasks. Its speed improvements, video capabilities, and support for third-party apps helped establish the iPhone as a must-have device for both tech enthusiasts and everyday users.
With the 3GS, Apple demonstrated its commitment to continuously improving the iPhone, both in terms of hardware and software. Many of the features introduced in the 3GS, like video recording and voice control, would become standard in future smartphones.
Conclusion
The iPhone 3GS was a pivotal device in Apple’s smartphone lineup, delivering faster performance, video recording, and improved software features that set the stage for future iPhones. While the exterior remained familiar, the internal upgrades were significant, making the iPhone 3GS a highly successful and influential model in Apple’s history.