Review of the iPhone (1st Generation)

Brief Introduction (150 words)The iPhone (1st Generation), unveiled by Apple Inc. on January 9, 2007, marked a pivotal moment in mobile technology. Released on June 29, 2007, in the United States, this groundbreaking device combined a phone, iPod, and internet communicator into one touchscreen marvel. Developed in secrecy over two years, it introduced a multi-touch interface, eliminating physical keyboards and setting a new standard for smartphones. Originating from the United States, the iPhone captivated audiences with its sleek design and intuitive iPhone OS. Despite its high price and initial exclusivity to AT&T, it sold over 6 million units, redefining user expectations. Its 3.5-inch display, 2-megapixel camera, and quad-band GSM connectivity were revolutionary for the time. For more details, visit Apple’s official site: https://www.apple.com. This review explores the iPhone’s specs, performance, and lasting impact.Different ColorsThe iPhone (1st Generation) was available in a single color combination: a silver aluminum back with a black plastic top and bottom.Year and Date AnnouncedJanuary 9, 2007Date Available for PurchaseJune 29, 2007 (United States); November 9, 2007 (UK, Germany); November 29, 2007 (France)Country of OriginUnited StatesManufacturerApple Inc.Web Linkhttps://www.apple.comCharger Type30-pin dock connector (included USB to 30-pin cable)How Long to Charge the BatteryApproximately 2–3 hours for a full charge (based on contemporary reports and similar lithium-ion battery charging times).How Many Produced So FarApproximately 6.12 million units were sold by the time the iPhone (1st Generation) was discontinued in July 2008. Exact production numbers are not publicly disclosed, but sales figures provide a close estimate.

Display (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) features a 3.5-inch capacitive multi-touch display with a resolution of 320×480 pixels at 163 ppi, a significant leap for 2007. Unlike resistive touchscreens common in devices like the BlackBerry, its glass-covered LCD responded to finger gestures, supporting pinch-to-zoom and swiping with remarkable fluidity. The screen’s 2:3 aspect ratio delivered vibrant colors and decent contrast for the era, though it lacked modern features like HDR or high refresh rates. Its 600:1 contrast ratio and 500 cd/m² brightness ensured readability indoors, but outdoor visibility was limited compared to today’s AMOLED panels. The display, protected by an early version of Gorilla Glass (introduced just before launch), was prone to scratches, as Steve Jobs noted with a prototype. Compared to competitors like the Nokia N95’s 2.6-inch TFT, the iPhone’s larger, touch-only interface was revolutionary, setting the stage for modern smartphone displays. However, its lack of stylus support and relatively low resolution by 2025 standards highlight its age.

Processor (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) is powered by the Samsung S5L8900 System-on-Chip (SoC), a 90nm ARM-based processor clocked at 412 MHz (underclocked from 620 MHz for efficiency). This single-core CPU, paired with 128MB of RAM, was modest even for 2007 but optimized for Apple’s iPhone OS. The PowerVR MBX Lite GPU handled basic graphics, sufficient for the device’s simple animations and web browsing. Compared to the Nokia N95’s 332 MHz dual-core ARM11, the iPhone’s chip prioritized power efficiency over raw speed, enabling smooth transitions in its touch interface. The SoC’s 32-bit architecture supported basic multitasking, though it lacked the power for modern apps or games. Apple’s tight hardware-software integration ensured responsiveness, outperforming many contemporaries with higher specs but clunkier OSes. By 2025 standards, the processor is archaic, incapable of running current iOS versions or demanding tasks. Still, its role in delivering a fluid user experience in 2007 underscores its historical significance, laying the foundation for Apple’s later A-series chips.

Performance (200+ words)In 2007, the iPhone (1st Generation) delivered impressive performance for its time, driven by the S5L8900 SoC and 128MB RAM. Its streamlined iPhone OS enabled smooth navigation, quick app launches, and responsive multi-touch gestures, outpacing competitors like the BlackBerry Pearl or Motorola RAZR, which relied on sluggish Java-based systems. Web browsing on Safari was a standout, rendering full desktop websites via EDGE, though load times were slow compared to modern 5G. The device handled core tasks—calling, texting, music playback, and email—with ease, but its lack of multitasking meant only one app could run at a time. Gaming was limited to basic titles due to the PowerVR GPU’s constraints. Compared to the Nokia N95, the iPhone felt snappier despite lower clock speeds, thanks to Apple’s software optimization. By 2025, its performance is obsolete, unable to support modern apps or iOS versions beyond 3.1.3. Still, its ability to deliver a cohesive experience in 2007 redefined smartphone performance expectations, prioritizing fluidity over raw power.

Camera System (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) featured a single 2-megapixel rear camera with a fixed-focus lens, a modest offering even for 2007. Lacking autofocus, flash, or video recording, it captured basic photos at 1600×1200 resolution, suitable for casual snapshots but poor in low light or for detailed shots. Compared to the Nokia N95’s 5-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics and flash, the iPhone’s camera was underwhelming, producing grainy images by today’s standards. Its f/2.8 aperture struggled in dim conditions, and the absence of editing tools limited creativity. However, the camera’s integration with the iPhone’s touchscreen interface was intuitive, allowing users to tap to view and pinch to zoom photos, a novel experience at the time. The lack of a front-facing camera precluded selfies or video calls, features introduced in later models. While revolutionary for its simplicity, the camera lagged behind competitors and is wholly inadequate by 2025 standards, incapable of meeting modern demands for high-resolution photography or video.

Battery (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) housed a 1400mAh lithium-ion battery, non-removable and soldered to the logic board, a design choice controversial for its time. Apple claimed up to 8 hours of talk time, 6 hours of web browsing, 7 hours of video playback, 24 hours of audio, and 250 hours of standby. Real-world usage often fell short, with heavy internet use via EDGE draining the battery in 4–5 hours. Compared to the BlackBerry Curve 8300’s removable 1100mAh battery, the iPhone offered longer talk time but less flexibility. The battery’s performance was adequate for 2007, supporting the device’s core functions—calls, music, and light browsing—but struggled with prolonged web use due to the power-hungry 3.5-inch display and always-on connectivity. By 2025, its capacity is minuscule compared to modern flagships like the iPhone 16 (4000mAh+). Chemical aging limits surviving units’ runtime, often requiring replacement, which is challenging due to the soldered design. Despite this, the battery’s integration enabled the iPhone’s slim profile, a trade-off that influenced future smartphone designs.

Charging (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) used a 30-pin dock connector for charging, paired with a USB to 30-pin cable and a 5W power adapter. Charging from 0% to 100% took approximately 2–3 hours, standard for 2007 but slow compared to 2025’s fast-charging standards (e.g., 50W MagSafe on iPhone 17). The 1400mAh battery’s low capacity meant shorter charge times than modern devices, but the lack of wireless charging or fast-charging protocols limited versatility. The 30-pin connector, a carryover from iPods, was proprietary, requiring Apple-specific cables, unlike the micro-USB common in competitors like the Nokia N95. Charging was reliable but cumbersome, as the bulky connector and non-universal cable frustrated users needing replacements. By 2025, the 30-pin system is obsolete, incompatible with USB-C or Lightning ecosystems. While the iPhone’s charging setup was functional for its era, its proprietary nature and slow speed highlight its limitations, underscoring the evolution toward universal, high-speed charging in modern smartphones.

Connectivity (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) supported quad-band GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) with GPRS and EDGE for data, offering speeds up to 384 kbps—glacial by 2025 standards but adequate for 2007’s mobile web. It lacked 3G, a notable omission when competitors like the Nokia N95 supported faster HSDPA. Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) enabled faster browsing at hotspots, a rarity for phones then. Bluetooth 2.0 supported headsets but not file transfers or stereo audio, limiting functionality compared to the BlackBerry Curve’s broader Bluetooth profiles. A 3.5mm headphone jack and the 30-pin connector handled wired connectivity. The iPhone’s always-on internet, via Safari and email, was groundbreaking, though EDGE’s slow speeds frustrated users in areas with poor coverage. By 2025, its lack of 4G/5G, NFC, or modern Wi-Fi standards renders it obsolete for current networks. Still, its seamless integration of cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth set a precedent for smartphones as connected devices, influencing the industry’s shift toward ubiquitous internet access.

Operating System (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) ran iPhone OS (later renamed iOS), a touch-optimized version of Mac OS X, launched on June 29, 2007. Its intuitive interface, with a grid of icons and gesture-based navigation, was a stark contrast to the clunky Symbian or Windows Mobile systems of the time. Initial features included Safari, Mail, Phone, and iPod apps, with no third-party app support until the App Store debuted in 2008. The final supported version, iPhone OS 3.1.3 (released February 2010), added minor stability improvements but lacked multitasking, copy-paste, or MMS, features standard in competitors like the Palm Pre. By 2025, iPhone OS is archaic, incompatible with modern apps and security protocols, leaving devices vulnerable to exploits. Yet, its simplicity and responsiveness in 2007 redefined user expectations, making complex tasks like web browsing accessible. Apple’s closed ecosystem ensured stability but limited customization, a trade-off that persists in iOS today, cementing the iPhone’s legacy as a software pioneer.

Build (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) featured a premium build for 2007, combining a stainless steel frame, an aluminum back, and a glass front. Measuring 115.5 x 61 x 11.6 mm and weighing 135g, it was compact yet sturdy, though the aluminum back was prone to scratches. The glass display, upgraded to Gorilla Glass just before launch, offered decent scratch resistance but was susceptible to cracks if dropped. Unlike the plastic Nokia N95 or BlackBerry Curve, the iPhone’s metal-and-glass construction felt luxurious, with a flat back and rounded edges ensuring comfortable handling. The single LED flash-less camera and minimal ports (30-pin connector, 3.5mm jack) contributed to its clean aesthetic. However, the non-removable battery and soldered components made repairs difficult, a point of criticism compared to user-serviceable competitors. By 2025, the build feels dated, lacking IP ratings or modern durability standards. Still, its robust yet elegant construction set a benchmark for smartphone craftsmanship, influencing Apple’s design philosophy and the industry’s shift toward premium materials.

Design (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) introduced a minimalist design that reshaped the smartphone industry. Its 3.5-inch glass touchscreen dominated the front, with a single physical home button below and minimal bezels for the era. The silver aluminum back, accented by black plastic bands, gave it a sleek, futuristic look, distinct from the keypad-heavy Nokia 8800 or Motorola RAZR. At 11.6mm thick, it was slim for 2007, with a stainless steel rim adding durability and elegance. The absence of a physical keyboard or stylus, relying entirely on multi-touch, was radical, prioritizing simplicity over convention. The design’s ergonomic curves fit comfortably in hand, though the glossy aluminum attracted fingerprints. By 2025, its thick bezels and lack of edge-to-edge display appear outdated compared to the iPhone 16’s slim, bezel-less aesthetic. Yet, its iconic design won accolades, including Time’s Invention of the Year, for its bold departure from clunky contemporaries, establishing a template for modern smartphones that prioritized form and function.

Additional Features (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) introduced several innovative features for 2007, though limited by today’s standards. Its multi-touch interface supported gestures like pinch-to-zoom, a first for smartphones, making web browsing and photo viewing intuitive. The built-in iPod app offered seamless music and video playback, rivaling standalone MP3 players. Visual Voicemail allowed users to select and play messages out of order, a feature absent in competitors like the BlackBerry Pearl. The proximity sensor disabled the screen during calls to prevent accidental touches, while an accelerometer enabled auto-rotation. However, it lacked GPS, MMS, or third-party apps, and copy-paste functionality was absent, frustrating users accustomed to Palm Treo’s versatility. By 2025, these features are rudimentary, with modern iPhones offering Face ID, AR, and AI-driven tools. Still, the iPhone’s integration of these features into a cohesive package was revolutionary, creating a user-friendly experience that outshone fragmented competitors and laid the groundwork for future innovations like Siri and the App Store.

Software (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) ran iPhone OS, a streamlined operating system built on Mac OS X’s foundation. Launched with core apps—Phone, Mail, Safari, iPod, and Messages—it prioritized ease of use over complexity. Safari’s ability to render full desktop websites was a standout, surpassing the WAP-based browsers of the Nokia N95 or Windows Mobile devices. The interface’s fluid animations and gesture-driven navigation felt futuristic, though it lacked multitasking, third-party apps, or features like MMS and copy-paste, standard in the Palm Pre. Updates to iPhone OS 3.1.3 (February 2010) added minor fixes but couldn’t bridge these gaps. By 2025, the software is obsolete, unsupported by modern apps, and vulnerable to security threats, unlike iOS 18’s robust ecosystem. In 2007, however, its simplicity and polish redefined smartphone software, offering a cohesive experience that competitors struggled to match. Apple’s closed system ensured stability but limited customization, a philosophy that continues to define iOS, influencing the industry’s shift toward intuitive, app-driven platforms.

Ecosystem (200+ words)The iPhone (1st Generation) laid the foundation for Apple’s ecosystem, though it was nascent in 2007. It synced seamlessly with iTunes for music, videos, and backups, leveraging Apple’s existing iPod infrastructure. Integration with Mac OS X enabled effortless calendar, contact, and email syncing via iTunes, a feature less polished on Windows. Unlike BlackBerry’s enterprise-focused ecosystem, the iPhone targeted consumers, with no third-party apps or App Store until 2008. The 30-pin connector tied it to Apple’s accessory market, though proprietary cables frustrated users compared to micro-USB competitors. By 2025, the iPhone’s ecosystem is limited to defunct iTunes versions, incompatible with modern iCloud or iOS services. In 2007, its tight integration with Apple’s software and hardware set a precedent for the walled-garden model, ensuring a consistent user experience that outshone fragmented Android or Symbian ecosystems. This approach, while restrictive, fostered brand loyalty and paved the way for Apple’s expansive ecosystem, including iCloud, Apple Music, and interconnected devices like the Apple Watch.

Sustainability (200+ words)In 2007, sustainability was not a priority for Apple, and the iPhone (1st Generation) reflects this. Its non-removable battery, soldered components, and proprietary 30-pin connector made repairs and recycling challenging, unlike the user-serviceable Nokia N95. Apple provided no official battery replacement program at launch, and third-party kits were costly and risky. The device’s aluminum and glass construction was recyclable, but Apple’s lack of transparency on sourcing or end-of-life recycling drew criticism. By 2025 standards, the iPhone’s environmental impact is poor, with no eco-friendly materials or modular design, unlike modern iPhones using recycled aluminum and cobalt-free batteries. Its energy-intensive EDGE connectivity and short software support (until 2010) further limit sustainability. However, Apple’s early adoption of lithium-ion batteries, which offered better efficiency than NiMH alternatives, was a step forward. The iPhone’s durability allowed some units to remain functional, but its obsolescence and repair difficulty hinder long-term use. Apple’s later sustainability efforts, like carbon-neutral goals, contrast sharply with the 1st Generation’s minimal environmental consideration, highlighting the industry’s evolution toward greener practices.

Underwater CapabilityThe iPhone (1st Generation) has no official water resistance rating. It lacks an IP certification and is not designed to withstand submersion or even light splashes. Exposure to water could damage internal components, with liquid contact indicators triggering warranty voids.

Five Similar Phones

1. Nokia N95 (2007): 5MP camera, Symbian OS, 3G connectivity.
2. BlackBerry Curve 8300 (2007): QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry OS, enterprise focus.
3. Palm Treo 750 (2007): Windows Mobile, touchscreen with stylus, 3G.
4. HTC Touch (2007): Windows Mobile, touchscreen, 2MP camera.
5. Sony Ericsson W910i (2007): Walkman phone, 2MP camera, HSDPA.

Date Software Stopped Getting UpdatesFebruary 2, 2010 (iPhone OS 3.1.3)

Price on Release

• UK: £269 (8GB, November 2007)
• Europe: €399 (8GB, Germany/France, November 2007)
• America: $499 (4GB), $599 (8GB, June 2007; 4GB discontinued September 2007, 8GB reduced to $399)
• Japan: Not released in Japan
• China: Not officially released in China
  
   

  

   

  

Price New Now (2025)New units are no longer sold by Apple or major retailers. Rare unopened units are collector’s items:

• UK: ~£10,000–£15,000 (unopened, auction estimates)
• Europe: ~€12,000–€18,000
• America: ~$15,000–$25,000
• Japan: ~¥2,000,000–¥3,500,000
• China: ~¥100,000–¥170,000
  
   

  

Highest Price Used

• UK: ~£2,000 (mint condition, boxed)
• Europe: ~€2,400
• America: ~$3,000 (e.g., $190,372.80 for an unopened unit at auction in 2023)
• Japan: ~¥400,000
• China: ~¥20,000
  
   

  

Lowest Price Used

• UK: ~£50 (poor condition, non-functional)
• Europe: ~€60
• America: ~$70
• Japan: ~¥10,000
• China: ~¥500

Pros

1. Revolutionary multi-touch interface redefined smartphone interaction.
2. Seamless integration with iTunes for music and media.
3. Sleek, premium design with aluminum and glass.
4. Intuitive iPhone OS outshone clunky competitors.
5. Visual Voicemail simplified message management.

Cons

1. No 3G support, relying on slow EDGE data.
2. Lack of third-party apps until 2008.
3. Non-removable battery limited repairability.
4. No MMS, copy-paste, or multitasking.
5. High price compared to feature-rich competitors.

Best Features

1. Multi-Touch Display: Pioneered pinch-to-zoom and gesture navigation.
2. Safari Browser: Full desktop web rendering on a phone.
3. iPod Integration: Seamless music and video playback.
4. Visual Voicemail: User-friendly message selection.
5. Design: Iconic, minimalist aesthetic.

Negative Features

1. No 3G: Slow EDGE data speeds.
2. 2MP Camera: Lacked flash, autofocus, and video.
3. No App Store: Limited to pre-installed apps.
4. Proprietary Connector: 30-pin cable was non-universal.
5. No Water Resistance: Vulnerable to liquid damage.

Reviews with Japanese NamesPositive Reviews

1. Hiroshi Tanaka: “The iPhone’s touchscreen is a game-changer. Browsing the web and listening to music feels effortless, and the design is stunning.”
2. Yumi Sato: “I love how intuitive it is. The iPod feature is perfect for my commutes, and Visual Voicemail is so convenient.”
3. Kenji Yamamoto: “This phone redefined what a smartphone can be. The interface is smooth, and the build quality is unmatched.”
4. Aiko Nakamura: “The iPhone’s sleek look and easy-to-use OS make it worth every penny. It’s like carrying a mini-computer.”
5. Taro Suzuki: “Safari’s desktop browsing on a phone is incredible. The iPhone feels like the future of technology.”

Neutral Reviews

1. Mika Takahashi: “The iPhone is innovative, but the lack of 3G and MMS is noticeable. Still, the touchscreen is impressive.”
2. Ryoji Ito: “It’s a beautiful device with a great music player, but the camera is basic, and I wish it had more apps.”
3. Sakura Fujimoto: “The iPhone’s design is gorgeous, but slow internet speeds and no video recording hold it back.”
4. Daichi Mori: “I enjoy the simplicity, but the battery life could be better, and it’s expensive for what it offers.”
5. Emi Watanabe: “The interface is smooth, but I miss features like MMS and a better camera that other phones have.”

Negative Reviews

1. Kenta Hayashi: “The iPhone is overpriced. No 3G, no MMS, and a weak camera make it lag behind competitors.”
2. Naomi Oda: “The lack of apps and slow EDGE data are frustrating. My Nokia does more for less money.”
3. Shota Kimura: “The battery isn’t removable, and the camera is terrible. It’s more style than substance.”
4. Reiko Endo: “No video recording or 3G? For this price, I expected more features. Disappointing.”
5. Jiro Maeda: “The iPhone looks nice, but it’s impractical. Slow internet and no multitasking make it hard to use daily.”

Conclusion (2000 words)The iPhone (1st Generation), announced on January 9, 2007, and released on June 29, 2007, stands as one of the most transformative products in consumer electronics history. Unveiled by Steve Jobs at Macworld San Francisco, it was marketed as a revolutionary convergence of a phone, iPod, and internet communicator. Its introduction disrupted an industry dominated by keypad-driven devices from Nokia, BlackBerry, and Motorola, setting a new standard for what a smartphone could be. This 2000-word conclusion reflects on its specifications, impact, limitations, and legacy, assessing its relevance in 2025 and its role in shaping the modern smartphone landscape.The iPhone’s 3.5-inch multi-touch display was its centerpiece, a bold departure from the resistive touchscreens and physical keyboards of 2007. With a 320×480 resolution and 163 ppi, it offered clarity and responsiveness unmatched by contemporaries like the Nokia N95 or BlackBerry Pearl. The capacitive touchscreen, supporting gestures like pinch-to-zoom, made interaction intuitive, eliminating the need for a stylus or clunky navigation keys. While its brightness and contrast were adequate, the display’s limitations—thick bezels, no HDR, and poor outdoor visibility—are glaring by 2025 standards, where AMOLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates dominate. Nonetheless, its role in popularizing touch-driven interfaces cannot be overstated, influencing every smartphone design that followed.The Samsung S5L8900 SoC, clocked at 412 MHz with 128MB RAM, powered the iPhone’s performance. Though modest compared to the Nokia N95’s 332 MHz dual-core chip, Apple’s hardware-software integration ensured a fluid experience. The iPhone OS (later iOS) was lightweight and optimized, delivering smooth animations and quick app launches. Tasks like web browsing, music playback, and emailing were seamless, outpacing the sluggish Java-based systems of competitors. However, the lack of multitasking and third-party apps limited its versatility, and by 2025, the processor is obsolete, incapable of running modern apps or iOS versions beyond 3.1.3. Its historical significance lies in proving that software optimization could trump raw specs, a principle Apple continues to leverage.Performance in 2007 was a revelation. The iPhone handled core functions—calls, texts, music, and light browsing—with ease, and Safari’s ability to render desktop websites was groundbreaking, despite EDGE’s slow speeds. Compared to the BlackBerry Curve’s enterprise focus or the Motorola RAZR’s basic functionality, the iPhone offered a consumer-friendly experience that felt futuristic. Gaming was minimal due to the PowerVR GPU’s limitations, and the absence of an App Store until 2008 restricted its potential. By 2025, its performance is irrelevant, as surviving units struggle with basic tasks due to aged hardware and unsupported software. Yet, its ability to deliver a cohesive user experience in 2007 redefined smartphone performance, prioritizing fluidity and accessibility.The 2-megapixel rear camera was a weak point, even for its time. Lacking autofocus, flash, or video recording, it produced mediocre photos compared to the Nokia N95’s 5-megapixel shooter with Carl Zeiss optics. Its f/2.8 aperture struggled in low light, and the absence of a front-facing camera precluded selfies or video calls. The camera’s saving grace was its integration with the iPhone’s touchscreen, making photo viewing intuitive. By 2025, it’s wholly inadequate, incapable of meeting demands for high-resolution photography or 4K video. Still, its simplicity set the stage for Apple’s later camera innovations, emphasizing ease of use over raw specs.The 1400mAh battery offered decent endurance for 2007, with Apple claiming 8 hours of talk time and 6 hours of web browsing. Real-world use often saw 4–5 hours under heavy load, comparable to the BlackBerry Curve but less flexible due to its non-removable design. By 2025, chemical aging renders most units’ batteries unreliable, and the soldered design complicates replacements. The battery’s integration enabled the iPhone’s slim profile, a trade-off that influenced smartphone design trends, though its capacity is dwarfed by modern 4000mAh+ batteries.Charging via the 30-pin dock connector took 2–3 hours, standard for the era but slow compared to 2025’s 50W fast charging. The proprietary cable, a carryover from iPods, was a pain point, unlike the micro-USB used by competitors. The lack of wireless charging or fast-charging protocols further limited versatility. By 2025, the 30-pin system is obsolete, incompatible with modern USB-C or Lightning ecosystems. While functional in 2007, its proprietary nature foreshadowed Apple’s walled-garden approach, which persists in its ecosystem today.Connectivity was a mixed bag. Quad-band GSM with EDGE offered speeds up to 384 kbps, but the lack of 3G was a glaring omission when competitors like the Nokia N95 supported HSDPA. Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) and Bluetooth 2.0 provided alternatives, though Bluetooth’s limited functionality (no file transfers) lagged behind BlackBerry’s offerings. The iPhone’s always-on internet, via Safari and email, was novel, but EDGE’s slowness frustrated users. By 2025, its lack of 4G/5G or NFC renders it unusable on modern networks, highlighting the rapid evolution of connectivity standards.The iPhone OS was a triumph, offering a touch-optimized interface that outshone Symbian or Windows Mobile. Its simplicity—core apps, fluid animations, and gesture navigation—made complex tasks accessible. However, the lack of multitasking, MMS, or third-party apps until 2008 was a drawback, and the final update (iPhone OS 3.1.3, February 2010) left it vulnerable to exploits. By 2025, the software is a relic, incompatible with modern apps or security protocols. Its legacy lies in establishing the app-driven, user-friendly model that defines iOS and modern smartphones.The build, with its aluminum back, stainless steel frame, and Gorilla Glass front, was premium for 2007. At 135g and 11.6mm thick, it felt sturdy yet elegant, surpassing the plastic Nokia N95. However, the non-removable battery and soldered components made repairs difficult, and the aluminum scratched easily. By 2025, its lack of IP ratings or modern durability standards is evident, but its craftsmanship set a benchmark for premium smartphone design.The design, with its minimalist touchscreen and single home button, was iconic. Its silver-and-black aesthetic and ergonomic curves stood out against keypad-heavy competitors. The absence of a physical keyboard was a gamble that paid off, earning accolades like Time’s Invention of the Year. By 2025, its thick bezels and small screen feel dated, but its influence on edge-to-edge designs is undeniable.Additional features like Visual Voicemail, the iPod app, and the proximity sensor were innovative, enhancing usability. The lack of GPS, MMS, or copy-paste, however, limited functionality compared to the Palm Treo. By 2025, these features are rudimentary, but their integration in 2007 showcased Apple’s focus on user experience.The ecosystem, centered on iTunes, was nascent but effective, syncing seamlessly with Macs and offering a consumer-friendly alternative to BlackBerry’s enterprise model. The proprietary 30-pin connector tied users to Apple’s accessories, a strategy that persists with Lightning and USB-C. By 2025, the ecosystem is defunct, but its foundation paved the way for iCloud and Apple’s interconnected devices.Sustainability was an afterthought in 2007. The iPhone’s non-repairable design and lack of recycling transparency drew criticism, unlike Nokia’s user-serviceable phones. By 2025, its environmental impact is poor, with no eco-friendly materials or modular design. Apple’s later sustainability efforts highlight the 1st Generation’s shortcomings, though its durable build allowed some units to survive.The iPhone sold 6.12 million units, a modest but impactful figure for a $499–$599 device exclusive to AT&T. Its pros—multi-touch, iTunes integration, sleek design, intuitive OS, and Visual Voicemail—redefined smartphones. Cons like no 3G, limited apps, non-removable battery, missing features, and high price sparked debate, but its best features (touch display, Safari, iPod, Voicemail, design) outweighed negatives (no 3G, weak camera, no App Store, proprietary connector, no water resistance).Its lack of water resistance made it vulnerable to liquid damage, unlike modern IP68-rated iPhones. Similar phones like the Nokia N95 and BlackBerry Curve offered more features but lacked the iPhone’s polish. Software updates ceased in 2010, rendering it insecure by 2025. Prices at launch were steep, and today’s new/unopened units fetch £10,000–$25,000, with used units ranging from £50–$3,000.Reviews from Japanese-named users reflect mixed sentiments. Positive reviews praise its innovation and design, neutral ones note missing features, and negative ones criticize its price and limitations. These align with 2007 sentiments, where the iPhone was lauded but scrutinized for omissions.In 2025, the iPhone (1st Generation) is a collector’s item, not a practical device. Its hardware and software are obsolete, but its legacy is profound. It introduced the touchscreen paradigm, birthed the App Store, and established Apple’s ecosystem, influencing Android and the entire tech industry. Its flaws—high cost, missing features, and proprietary design—sparked debates that shaped consumer expectations. The iPhone’s success, selling over 2.3 billion units across generations by 2024, underscores its impact. It transformed communication, media, and computing, making smartphones indispensable. While no longer functional, its historical significance as the spark of the smartphone revolution endures, a testament to Apple’s vision and execution.