Review of the iPhone 3GS

Brief Introduction (150 words)The iPhone 3GS, unveiled by Apple Inc. on June 8, 2009, at WWDC in San Francisco, marked a significant evolution in the iPhone lineage. Released on June 19, 2009, in the U.S., Canada, and six European countries, it introduced enhanced speed, a superior camera, and new features like video recording and Voice Control. Originating from the United States and assembled in Taiwan by Foxconn, the 3GS (with “S” for Speed) doubled performance over its predecessor, the iPhone 3G, solidifying Apple’s dominance in the smartphone market. Available in black and white, it offered 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB storage options. Its iOS 3.0 operating system brought over 100 new features, including the App Store’s growing ecosystem. The iPhone 3GS set industry standards, selling over one million units in its first weekend. For more details, visit: https://www.apple.com.Different Colors

• Black
• White (16GB and 32GB models only; 8GB model available only in black)

Year and Date AnnouncedJune 8, 2009Date Available for PurchaseJune 19, 2009 (U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, UK); June 26, 2009 (Australia, Japan); July and August 2009 (international markets)Country of OriginUnited States (designed); Taiwan (assembled)Name of ManufacturerApple Inc. (designed); Foxconn and Pegatron (assembled)Web Linkhttps://www.apple.comCharger Type30-pin dock connector with USB-to-iPhone cable and USB power adapterBattery Charge TimeApproximately 3 hours for a full charge (0% to 100%) using the included 5W USB power adapterDisplay (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS features a 3.5-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 320×480 pixels at 163 pixels per inch (ppi), designed by Apple and manufactured by LG. This display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, offers decent clarity for its era, with 24-bit color emulation (18-bit plus dithering) for vibrant visuals, though it pales compared to modern Retina displays. An oleophobic coating reduces fingerprints, enhancing usability. The screen’s brightness, around 500 nits, ensures readability in most indoor settings but struggles in direct sunlight. Its multi-touch interface supports intuitive gestures like pinch-to-zoom and swipe, setting a standard for smartphone interaction. Compared to the iPhone 3G, the 3GS’s display is identical in size and resolution but benefits from improved software rendering via iOS 3.0, making animations smoother. While revolutionary in 2009, the display’s low resolution and lack of HDR or high refresh rates feel dated today. The scratch-resistant glass holds up well, but the glossy finish attracts smudges, requiring frequent cleaning.

Processor (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS is powered by the Samsung S5L8920 (APL0298C05) system-on-a-chip, featuring a 600 MHz ARM Cortex-A8 CPU, underclocked from 833 MHz for efficiency. This 32-bit processor, built on a 65nm process, pairs with a PowerVR SGX535 GPU, supporting OpenGL ES 2.0 for improved graphics. With 256MB of eDRAM (double the iPhone 3G’s 128MB), it enables faster app launches and basic multitasking. Apple claimed the 3GS was twice as fast as its predecessor, with apps loading in nearly half the time, a claim validated by benchmarks showing a 2x performance boost in tasks like web rendering. Compared to contemporaries like the Nokia N97’s 434 MHz ARM11, the 3GS’s chip was superior, though it lagged behind 2010’s iPhone 4 A4 chip. The processor handles iOS 3.0’s demands well but struggles with later updates like iOS 6. Thermal management is adequate, with minimal overheating during typical use. This hardware laid the groundwork for Apple’s future chip innovations.

Performance (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS delivers robust performance for its 2009 context, driven by the 600 MHz Cortex-A8 processor and 256MB RAM. It handles iOS 3.0 tasks—web browsing, emailing, and light gaming—with smooth responsiveness, doubling the speed of the iPhone 3G. Apps like Safari and Maps load in seconds, and the PowerVR SGX535 GPU supports 3D games like Asphalt 5 at stable frame rates. Benchmarks (e.g., Geekbench 2) score it around 270, a significant leap over the 3G’s 135. Multitasking, introduced in iOS 4, feels sluggish, as the 256MB RAM limits background processes. Compared to rivals like the HTC Hero (528 MHz), the 3GS offers snappier navigation and better graphics. However, by iOS 6, performance degrades, with noticeable lag in animations and app transitions. Heavy tasks, like video editing, strain the system, causing occasional stutters. For casual users, the 3GS remains reliable, but demanding tasks expose its limits, especially post-2011 updates. Its efficiency set a benchmark for early smartphones.

Camera System (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS sports a 3.15-megapixel rear camera by OmniVision, a significant upgrade from the 3G’s 2MP sensor. With an f/2.8 aperture, it captures sharper images in decent lighting, supporting autofocus, auto white balance, and macro mode for close-ups. The “tap-to-focus” feature, a 2009 innovation, lets users prioritize specific areas, adjusting exposure and focus intuitively. VGA video recording at 30fps marks the iPhone’s first video capability, with basic in-camera editing (trimming start/end points). Photos are adequate for casual sharing but lack detail in low light, as there’s no flash. Compared to the Nokia N97’s 5MP Carl Zeiss lens, the 3GS’s camera is less versatile but benefits from simpler software. Sharing via MMS, email, or MobileMe is seamless, though video quality (480p) feels basic today. The absence of a front camera limits video calls, a feature introduced with the iPhone 4. For 2009, the camera’s ease of use and integration with iOS apps made it a standout, influencing smartphone photography trends.

Battery (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS houses a non-removable 3.7V, 1220 mAh lithium-ion polymer battery, slightly larger than the 3G’s 1150 mAh. Apple rates it for up to 12 hours of 2G talk time, 5 hours on 3G, 30 hours of audio playback, 10 hours of video, 9 hours of Wi-Fi browsing, or 300 hours of standby. Real-world tests confirm about 4-5 hours of heavy use (calls, browsing, apps) or 1-2 days of light use, an improvement over the 3G’s shorter lifespan. The battery retains 80% capacity after 400 cycles, typical for its era. Compared to the BlackBerry Curve 8900 (1400 mAh), the 3GS offers similar endurance but benefits from iOS’s power-efficient software. Heavy 3G data or video recording drains it faster, and iOS 4’s multitasking slightly reduces longevity. No ultra power-saving mode exists, though manual tweaks (lowering brightness, disabling location services) help. While adequate for 2009, modern users would find it limiting. Battery replacement requires professional service, a drawback versus user-replaceable designs.

Charging (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS uses a proprietary 30-pin dock connector for charging, paired with a 5W USB power adapter and USB-to-dock cable. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours from 0% to 100%, with 80% reached in about 2 hours. The 1220 mAh battery supports slow charging to preserve longevity, typical for 2009 smartphones. No fast charging or wireless charging is available, unlike modern devices or even the 2017 iPhone 8’s wireless capability. The 30-pin connector, while reliable, is bulky compared to USB-C or Lightning ports and requires Apple’s proprietary cable, limiting third-party options. Charging via a computer’s USB port is slower, often taking 4 hours. Compared to the Nokia E71’s micro-USB charger, the 3GS’s system feels less universal but integrates seamlessly with iTunes for syncing. Overheating during charging is rare, and the adapter’s compact design is travel-friendly. However, the lack of included accessories (e.g., car charger) and the cable’s fragility (prone to fraying) are drawbacks. For its time, the charging system was functional but inflexible.

Connectivity (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS supports GSM/HSPA networks, offering 2G (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) and 3G (HSDPA 850/1900/2100) bands with speeds up to 7.2 Mbps download and 384 kbps upload, a leap from the 3G’s slower 3G modem. It includes Wi-Fi 802.11b/g for fast local networks, Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP (headset-only), and A-GPS for navigation, integrated with Google Maps. The 30-pin dock connector enables syncing with iTunes, while a 3.5mm headphone jack supports standard headphones, an improvement over the original iPhone’s recessed jack. No 4G, NFC, or USB OTG is present, limiting future-proofing. Compared to the Palm Pre’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the 3GS’s 3G speed and GPS integration are superior, though upload speeds lag behind HSUPA-enabled devices. Connectivity is reliable in urban areas, but rural 3G coverage depends on carriers like AT&T, which faced criticism for dropped calls. The lack of tethering (until later iOS updates) frustrated users. For 2009, the 3GS’s connectivity balanced speed and functionality, shaping smartphone expectations.

Operating System (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS launched with iPhone OS 3.0, later renamed iOS, upgradable to iOS 6.1.6 (final version, February 2014). iOS 3.0 introduced over 100 features, including cut/copy/paste, MMS, Spotlight Search, and landscape keyboard, enhancing usability. The App Store, with over 50,000 apps by mid-2009, revolutionized mobile software. iOS 4 added multitasking and wallpapers but strained the 3GS’s 256MB RAM, causing slowdowns. iOS 5 brought iCloud, over-the-air updates, and on-device setup, though Siri was incompatible. iOS 6, the final supported version, excluded features like turn-by-navigator and Panorama. Gesture-based navigation (swipe, pinch) set industry standards, though the lack of widgets or customization lagged behind Android 2.2. Compared to BlackBerry OS 5, iOS was more intuitive but less enterprise-focused. Security patches continued until iOS 6.1.6, addressing Safari vulnerabilities. While revolutionary, later updates exposed hardware limitations, with iOS 6 feeling sluggish. The 3GS’s software longevity (five years) was impressive, cementing Apple’s reputation for extended support.

Build (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS features a plastic back (polycarbonate) and a glass front, combining durability with a premium feel. Measuring 4.55 inches (115.5 mm) tall, 2.44 inches (62.1 mm) wide, and 0.48 inches (12.3 mm) deep, it weighs 4.8 ounces (135g), balancing portability and solidity. The plastic back, available in black or white, resists minor scratches but can discolor with certain cases, a minor issue Apple attributed to external factors. The Corning Gorilla Glass front, with an oleophobic coating, reduces smudges and withstands light drops, though it’s not shatterproof. Stainless steel bezels add structural integrity. Compared to the iPhone 3G, the build is nearly identical, but the 3GS’s 8GB model lacks rear lettering, distinguishing it from 16GB/32GB variants. Against the HTC Dream’s bulkier plastic, the 3GS feels refined. Assembly by Foxconn ensures tight tolerances, with no creaks. The non-removable battery and sealed design limit repairs, unlike the Nokia N97’s user-serviceable parts. For 2009, the build quality was top-tier, though modern users might find it dated.

Design (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS retains the iPhone 3G’s iconic design, with curved edges and a compact form factor that feels ergonomic. Its 3.5-inch display, framed by minimal bezels for its time, maximizes screen real estate. The glossy plastic back (black or white) and chrome bezel exude a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, though the plastic feels less premium than the original iPhone’s aluminum. A single home button and top-mounted power button maintain simplicity, while the flush 3.5mm headphone jack improves accessory compatibility. At 135g, it’s comfortable for extended use. The oleophobic-coated glass front resists fingerprints, enhancing visual appeal. Compared to the boxy BlackBerry Bold 9700, the 3GS’s curves are more inviting, though its glossy finish attracts smudges. The design influenced competitors, with rounded edges becoming a trend. Critics noted the unchanged exterior from the 3G, but its intuitive layout—volume rocker, mute switch, and dock port—set a usability standard. While iconic in 2009, the design lacks modern flair like edge-to-edge displays or metal unibodies.

Additional Features (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS introduced several standout features for 2009. Voice Control, activated by holding the home button, allows hands-free calling and music playback, a precursor to Siri, though limited to basic commands. The digital compass, integrated with Google Maps, orients maps automatically, aiding navigation, though accuracy varies near magnetic fields. VoiceOver, a screen reader, enhances accessibility for visually impaired users, dictating menus and text. Color Inversion and Text Zoom improve visibility for low-vision users. Nike+ iPod support enables fitness tracking with compatible sensors, appealing to runners. The 3GS also includes a proximity sensor to disable the screen during calls, an accelerometer for auto-rotation, and an inline remote on the included earphones for music control. Compared to the Palm Pre’s multitasking, these features were less ambitious but tightly integrated. The lack of Flash support and limited customization frustrated some, but the App Store’s 50,000+ apps offered versatility. While innovative, features like the compass occasionally underperformed, and Voice Control lacked sophistication. These additions solidified the 3GS’s versatility, setting a foundation for future iPhone capabilities.

Software (200+ words)iPhone OS 3.0, powering the 3GS, brought transformative features, evolving into iOS 6.1.6 by 2014. Key additions include cut/copy/paste, MMS for photo messaging, and Spotlight Search for device-wide queries. The App Store, with over 50,000 apps, enabled downloads for gaming, productivity, and social media, outpacing BlackBerry’s nascent app platform. iOS 4 introduced multitasking and home screen wallpapers, though performance lagged on the 3GS’s hardware. iOS 5 added iCloud, wireless syncing, and over-the-air updates, enhancing user freedom. iOS 6, the final version, supported most features but omitted advanced ones like Siri. The gesture-driven interface—swipe, tap, pinch—remains intuitive, though Android offered more customization. Safari’s full web rendering was ahead of rivals like Symbian. Security updates until 2014 ensured longevity, but iOS 6’s 2013 Maps app faced criticism for inaccuracies. Compared to Windows Mobile 6.5, iOS was smoother and more user-friendly. While revolutionary, later iOS versions exposed the 3GS’s hardware limits, with slowdowns in animations and app launches. Apple’s software ecosystem set a high bar for competitors.

Ecosystem (200+ words)The iPhone 3GS thrives within Apple’s burgeoning ecosystem, centered on iTunes and the App Store. iTunes syncs music, videos, and backups, integrating seamlessly with Macs and PCs, a feature unmatched by Android’s fragmented ecosystem in 2009. The App Store, with 50,000+ apps by launch, offers curated games, tools, and social apps, driving third-party innovation. iCloud, introduced with iOS 5, enables wireless backups and photo syncing, though limited to 5GB free storage. MobileMe (subscription-based) supports Find My iPhone and remote wipe, enhancing security. Compared to BlackBerry’s BBM-centric ecosystem, Apple’s is broader, linking iPods, Macs, and later iPads. The 30-pin connector ties into a growing accessory market—docks, speakers, and car kits—outpacing Palm’s Touchstone charger ecosystem. However, reliance on iTunes for syncing feels restrictive versus Android’s drag-and-drop freedom. The ecosystem’s polish and app quality set industry standards, though carrier exclusivity (e.g., AT&T) limits flexibility. By fostering developer support and user loyalty, the 3GS’s ecosystem laid the groundwork for Apple’s dominance, making it a compelling choice for 2009 buyers.

Sustainability (200+ words)Apple emphasized environmental progress with the iPhone 3GS, incorporating eco-friendly features for 2009. The device uses a mercury-free LCD, arsenic-free glass, and a BFR/PVC-free design, reducing toxic materials. Its packaging, smaller than the 3G’s, minimizes waste, and the plastic back is recyclable, though the non-removable battery complicates recycling. Apple’s recycling program allows trade-ins, with components repurposed or responsibly disposed. Energy efficiency improved, with the 3GS consuming less power during operation than the 3G, partly due to iOS optimizations. However, the sealed design requires professional battery replacements, increasing e-waste compared to user-serviceable phones like the Nokia E71. Apple’s supply chain, managed by Foxconn, faced scrutiny for labor practices, though Apple began auditing suppliers in 2009. Compared to modern devices with modular designs or biodegradable materials, the 3GS’s sustainability is modest. Its five-year software support (until 2014) extended usability, reducing premature obsolescence. While ahead of competitors like HTC in environmental design, the 3GS lacks detailed lifecycle assessments. Apple’s efforts set early standards, but sustainability remained secondary to performance and design.

Production NumbersExact production numbers are not publicly disclosed, but Apple sold over 1 million iPhone 3GS units in its first weekend and reached 20% smartphone market share by late 2009, suggesting tens of millions produced by 2012 discontinuation. Estimated total: ~35-40 million units.

Pros

1. Improved performance (2x faster than iPhone 3G)
2. Innovative 3.15MP camera with video recording
3. Long software support (until 2014)
4. Intuitive iOS 3.0 and App Store ecosystem
5. Sleek, durable design with Gorilla Glass

Cons

1. No front camera or flash
2. Non-removable battery limits repairs
3. Slows with iOS 4+ updates
4. Proprietary 30-pin connector restricts compatibility
5. Limited multitasking and customization

Best Features

1. Voice Control: Early hands-free operation for calls and music.
2. Digital Compass: Enhances navigation with Google Maps integration.
3. 3.15MP Camera: Autofocus and video recording set new standards.
4. App Store: Access to 50,000+ apps revolutionized smartphones.
5. Oleophobic Coating: Reduces fingerprints on the display.

Negative Features

1. No Multitasking (initially): Lags behind competitors until iOS 4.
2. Low-Resolution Display: 163 ppi feels dated by 2012.
3. No Flash Support: Limits web browsing capabilities.
4. Carrier Exclusivity: AT&T’s network issues frustrate users.
5. Plastic Back: Prone to discoloration with some cases.

Water ResistanceThe iPhone 3GS has no official water resistance rating (e.g., IPX). It cannot withstand submersion or significant water exposure, as it lacks sealing or gaskets found in later models like the iPhone 7 (IP67). Brief exposure to splashes may not cause immediate damage, but prolonged contact risks internal corrosion. No specific depth or duration is safe.

Five Similar Phones

1. Nokia N97: 5MP camera, physical keyboard, Symbian OS.
2. HTC Hero: Android 1.5, 3.2-inch display, 5MP camera.
3. Palm Pre: WebOS, 3.1-inch display, 3MP camera.
4. BlackBerry Bold 9700: BlackBerry OS, 3.2MP camera, physical keyboard.
5. Samsung Omnia II: Windows Mobile 6.5, 3.7-inch AMOLED, 5MP camera.

Date Software Stopped Getting UpdatesSeptember 17, 2014 (iOS 6.1.6, final security patch addressing Safari certificate issues).

Price on Release

• UK: £440 (16GB), £538 (32GB); 8GB model later £342 (2010). Contract: £29.38/month + £184.98 upfront (18 months).
  
   

  

• Europe: €599 (16GB), €699 (32GB); 8GB later €499 (2010).
  
   

  

• America: $199 (16GB), $299 (32GB) with 2-year AT&T contract; $599/$699 without. 8GB later $99 (2010).
  
   

  

• Japan: ¥57,600 (16GB), ¥69,120 (32GB) with SoftBank contract; 8GB later ¥46,080 (2010). Estimated based on regional pricing trends.
• China: ¥4,999 (16GB), ¥5,999 (32GB); 8GB later ¥3,999 (2010). Estimated based on historical data.

Price New Now (2025)New stock is unavailable due to discontinuation in 2012. Prices below reflect rare unopened units on collector markets:

• UK: ~£200-£300
• Europe: ~€250-€350
• America: ~$250-$400
• Japan: ~¥30,000-¥50,000
• China: ~¥1,500-¥2,500

Highest Price Used

• UK: £150 (mint condition, 32GB)
• Europe: €180 (mint, 32GB)
• America: $200 (mint, 32GB)
• Japan: ¥25,000 (mint, 32GB)
• China: ¥1,200 (mint, 32GB)

Lowest Price Used

• UK: £20 (poor condition, 8GB)
• Europe: €25 (poor, 8GB)
• America: $15 (poor, 8GB)
• Japan: ¥2,000 (poor, 8GB)
• China: ¥100 (poor, 8GB)

15 Reviews with Japanese NamesPositive Reviews

1. Hiroshi Tanaka: “The iPhone 3GS is a game-changer! The speed is incredible compared to my old 3G, and the camera takes great photos. Video recording is a bonus. Love the App Store’s variety. Highly recommend!”
2. Yuki Nakamura: “This phone feels so smooth. Voice Control is fun, and the compass helps with navigation. The design is sleek, and iOS is super easy to use. Worth every yen!”
3. Aiko Suzuki: “I’m amazed by the 3GS’s performance. Apps load quickly, and the battery lasts a full day. The 3MP camera is perfect for quick snaps. Apple nailed it!”
4. Kenji Yamamoto: “The 3GS is a huge upgrade. The touchscreen is responsive, and the App Store has everything I need. The build feels solid, and it’s still stylish in 2025.”
5. Mika Sato: “Love the iPhone 3GS! It’s fast, reliable, and the video feature is great for capturing moments. The ecosystem with iTunes is seamless. A fantastic device!”

Neutral Reviews 6. Taro Watanabe: “The 3GS is decent. It’s faster than the 3G, and the camera’s okay, but I wish it had a front camera. iOS is smooth, but later updates slow it down.” 7. Rei Kobayashi: “It’s a solid phone for 2009. The design is nice, but the plastic back feels cheap. The App Store is great, but no multitasking at launch is a bummer.” 8. Naomi Ito: “The 3GS works well for basic tasks. The display is clear, but resolution is low by today’s standards. Good for nostalgia, but not for heavy use.” 9. Daichi Mori: “This iPhone is okay. The speed boost is noticeable, and Voice Control is cool, but the lack of flash limits photos. It’s reliable but dated.” 10. Sakura Fujimoto: “The 3GS is functional. The camera and apps are nice, but the battery struggles with 3G. It’s a classic, but modern phones are better.”Negative Reviews 11. Kenta Hayashi: “Disappointed with the 3GS. It’s slow on iOS 6, and the display looks pixelated. No front camera or flash is a dealbreaker. Not worth it.” 12. Asuka Endo: “The 3GS feels outdated. The plastic back discolors, and the battery barely lasts a day. iOS updates make it laggy. I expected more.” 13. Riku Takahashi: “This phone is frustrating. No multitasking initially, and the camera struggles in low light. The 30-pin connector is annoying. Pass.” 14. Haruka Ogawa: “The 3GS is overrated. The screen resolution is poor, and it overheats with heavy use. No water resistance either. I regret buying it.” 15. Shota Inoue: “Awful experience. The 3GS is sluggish, and the lack of modern features like NFC hurts. The battery dies fast, and repairs are costly.”Conclusion (2000 words)The iPhone 3GS, launched on June 8, 2009, and available from June 19, 2009, represents a pivotal moment in smartphone history. As Apple’s third-generation iPhone, it built on the 3G’s foundation, introducing significant upgrades that solidified Apple’s leadership in the mobile industry. Its announcement at WWDC in San Francisco, led by then-CEO Steve Jobs, generated immense excitement, with over one million units sold in its first weekend. The “S” for Speed wasn’t mere marketing—the 3GS doubled performance, added video recording, and expanded the App Store’s influence, setting benchmarks that competitors scrambled to match. This review evaluates its strengths, weaknesses, and lasting impact, reflecting on its role in 2009 and its relevance today.Performance and Hardware The 3GS’s 600 MHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and 256MB RAM delivered a 2x speed boost over the iPhone 3G, making app launches, web browsing, and gaming noticeably snappier. The PowerVR SGX535 GPU supported OpenGL ES 2.0, enabling richer 3D graphics for games like Asphalt 5. Benchmarks confirmed Apple’s claims, with the 3GS scoring roughly 270 on Geekbench 2, compared to the 3G’s 135. This leap made it competitive against rivals like the Nokia N97 (434 MHz) and HTC Hero (528 MHz). However, the 256MB RAM struggled with iOS 4’s multitasking, and by iOS 6, slowdowns were evident. The processor’s 65nm architecture, while efficient for 2009, couldn’t keep pace with 2011’s dual-core chips like the iPhone 4S’s A5. Thermally, the 3GS remained stable, avoiding the overheating issues reported with some Android devices.Display The 3.5-inch TFT display, with a 320×480 resolution at 163 ppi, was adequate for 2009 but lacks the sharpness of modern Retina screens. Its 24-bit color emulation and oleophobic coating improved visuals and usability, reducing smudges compared to the 3G. Corning Gorilla Glass added durability, though the glossy finish attracted fingerprints. At ~500 nits, it was readable indoors but struggled in sunlight, unlike the Samsung Omnia II’s AMOLED. The multi-touch interface, supporting gestures like pinch-to-zoom, set a usability standard that Android and BlackBerry adopted. While iconic, the display’s low resolution and lack of HDR or high refresh rates make it feel dated in 2025, especially against 120Hz OLED panels.Camera The 3.15MP OmniVision camera, with autofocus, macro, and tap-to-focus, was a standout feature. It captured sharper images than the 3G’s 2MP sensor, and VGA video recording at 30fps marked Apple’s entry into mobile video. The f/2.8 aperture performed well in daylight but struggled in low light without a flash—a key limitation versus the Nokia N97’s 5MP Carl Zeiss lens. Basic editing (trimming) and seamless sharing via MMS or MobileMe were ahead of their time, influencing smartphone photography’s rise. The absence of a front camera, standard by 2010, limited its versatility. Still, the camera’s simplicity and iOS integration made it accessible, shaping consumer expectations for point-and-shoot phone cameras.Battery and Charging The 1220 mAh battery offered modest improvements, delivering 12 hours of 2G talk time, 5 hours on 3G, or 30 hours of audio playback. Real-world use yielded 4-5 hours of heavy activity or 1-2 days of light use, better than the 3G but behind the BlackBerry Curve 8900’s 1400 mAh. The 30-pin dock connector and 5W charger took ~3 hours for a full charge, standard for the era but slow compared to 2025’s 20W+ fast charging. The proprietary connector, while reliable, restricted third-party accessory options, unlike micro-USB rivals. The non-removable battery, requiring professional replacement, was a drawback versus user-serviceable designs. iOS’s power management helped, but heavy 3G use or iOS 4’s multitasking drained it quickly.Connectivity With 3G HSDPA (7.2 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.1, and A-GPS, the 3GS balanced speed and functionality. Its 3G modem outperformed the 3G’s, though upload speeds (384 kbps) lagged behind HSUPA devices. Wi-Fi and GPS integration with Google Maps was seamless, though rural 3G coverage, especially with AT&T, drew complaints. Bluetooth’s headset-only A2DP was limiting compared to the Palm Pre’s file transfer support. The 3.5mm headphone jack, flush-mounted, improved accessory compatibility. No 4G or NFC kept it behind 2011 standards, but for 2009, its connectivity was robust, shaping expectations for always-on internet access.Software and Ecosystem iPhone OS 3.0, upgradable to iOS 6.1.6, introduced cut/copy/paste, MMS, and the App Store’s 50,000+ apps, outpacing BlackBerry and Symbian. iOS 4’s multitasking and iOS 5’s iCloud enhanced functionality, though later updates slowed the 3GS. The gesture-based interface was intuitive, surpassing Windows Mobile’s clunkiness. iTunes and the App Store created a cohesive ecosystem, syncing with Macs and fueling third-party innovation. MobileMe’s Find My iPhone added security, though its subscription cost irked users. Compared to Android 2.2’s openness, iOS felt restrictive but polished. Five years of updates (until 2014) were unprecedented, cementing Apple’s support reputation.Design and Build The 3GS’s plastic back and glass front, at 115.5 x 62.1 x 12.3 mm and 135g, felt premium yet practical. Its curved edges and compact size were ergonomic, outshining the HTC Dream’s bulk. Gorilla Glass and an oleophobic coating ensured durability and clarity, though the plastic back could discolor. Build quality, via Foxconn’s assembly, was flawless, with no creaks. The design, unchanged from the 3G, drew criticism but influenced competitors’ rounded aesthetics. The sealed design, while sleek, limited repairs, unlike the Nokia N97’s serviceable parts.Additional Features Voice Control, digital compass, VoiceOver, and Nike+ iPod support added versatility. The compass aided navigation, though accuracy faltered near magnetic fields. Voice Control was innovative but basic, paving the way for Siri. Accessibility features like VoiceOver set inclusivity standards. Compared to the Palm Pre’s multitasking, these were incremental but well-executed, enhancing the 3GS’s appeal.Sustainability The 3GS’s mercury-free LCD, BFR/PVC-free design, and recyclable packaging were eco-conscious for 2009. Apple’s recycling program and five-year software support reduced waste, but the non-removable battery and Foxconn’s labor issues were drawbacks. Compared to modern modular phones, its sustainability is modest but ahead of 2009 rivals like HTC.Market Impact Selling ~35-40 million units, the 3GS captured 20% of the smartphone market by late 2009, rivaling BlackBerry’s 55%. Its $199/$299 pricing (with contract) made it accessible, though carrier exclusivity frustrated users. The App Store’s growth spurred developer ecosystems, while features like tap-to-focus and video recording became industry norms.Relevance in 2025 Today, the 3GS is a collector’s item, with unopened units fetching $250-$400. Its low-resolution display, lack of modern features (NFC, 4G, water resistance), and sluggish iOS 6 performance make it impractical for daily use. Used prices range from $15 (poor condition) to $200 (mint), reflecting nostalgia over utility. Similar phones like the Nokia N97 or Palm Pre are equally obsolete.Conclusion The iPhone 3GS was a landmark device, refining the smartphone experience with speed, software, and simplicity. Its camera, App Store, and ecosystem reshaped the industry, forcing competitors to innovate. While its hardware and design were revolutionary, limitations like no front camera, proprietary charging, and iOS slowdowns highlight its age. For 2009, it was unmatched, but in 2025, it’s a relic—cherished for nostalgia, not functionality. Apple’s vision with the 3GS laid the foundation for today’s iPhones, proving its enduring legacy.