Unveiled in early October of 2011, the iPhone 4S is the latest in the lineup of popular iPhone smartphones. Building upon the popularity and features of the iPhone 4, the iPhone 4S also includes several new features and upgrades that have already proven to be quite appealing in the marketplace for both new and existing iPhone users.
On the outside, the iPhone 4S does not appear unique from the iPhone 4. In fact, the exterior design remains identical to that of its predecessor. Instead of revamping the device’s appearance, the improvements present in the iPhone 4S are related to the phone’s hardware and software.
iPhone 4S Hardware Upgrades
The iPhone 4S is the first Apple smartphone to feature the dual-core Apple A5 processor. This allows for faster operating speeds than previous models. Like the iPhone 4, the 4S has 512 MB of RAM and options for 32 GB and 16 GB of internal storage. Unlike the previous model, however, consumers may also choose a 64 GB model.
Another major hardware improvement in the iPhone 4S is the camera. The iPhone 4 featured a 5-megapixel rear facing camera that has been upgraded to 8-megapixels in the 4S. This allows for higher resolution still photos as well as the recording of high definition videos in 1080p. The camera has also been improved to allow for steadier shots, macro photos, and faster capture time. It can also be accessed directly screen, and the volume rocker can be used as a shutter button.
Siri Voice Control System
Perhaps one of the most attractive features of the iPhone 4S is Siri, an automated system that allows users to have the iPhone commands simply by talking to it. In addition to recognizing what the user is saying, Siri allows the device to respond in an intelligent manner. This makes it possible for iPhone 4S users to fully control the device hands-free. Since Siri can be used for making phone calls, sending text messages, or searching for information, it makes the device much safer to use while driving or performing other tasks. Unlike other voice recognition systems, users to not have to use specific commands with Siri. The system recommends natural speech in a number of languages.
iOS5 Operating System
The Apple iPhone 4S was released with Apple’s new iOS5 operating system. Compared to the previous operating system, iOS5 boasts more than 200 new features. This operating system works in conjunction with the Apple A5 processor to allow for advanced data processing for the camera, Safari web browsing, and Siri voice control. The new operating system is also available for download for existing iPhone customers.
The iOS5 operating system also includes support for iCloud, which allows users to wirelessly store photos, music, documents, and more between all their other devices including other Mac devices, PCs, and some televisions. With iCloud, it is easy to share content without syncing, transferring files, or bothering with cumbersome docking stations or wires.
The Apple iPhone 4S offers numerous attractive benefits when compared to earlier models. With a new operating system and better hardware, it is the fastest iPhone to date. It does not, however, run on 4G. Instead, it still runs on 3G networks. In the United States, the iPhone 4S is available to both AT&T and Verizon customers. It is also available on several global networks.