It looks like an iPhone, works like an iPhone, but costs a lot less than an iPhone used to cost. The 3G, or "third generation" iPhone, available in the U.S. and 21 other countries July 11, has a price tag of $199, $400 cheaper than the initial iPhone released a year ago.
The new iPhone is also more powerful. The standard model is eight gigabytes, which can be doubled to 16 gigabytes for an extra $100.
The new iPhone comes with built-in GPS for expanded location-based mobile services, and iPhone 2.0 software which includes support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync and runs the hundreds of third party applications.
"Just one year after launching the iPhone, we're launching the new iPhone 3G that is twice as fast at half the price," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. " iPhone 3G supports Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync right out of the box, runs the incredible third party apps created with the iPhone SDK, and will be available in more than 70 countries around the world this year."
Apple says the iPhone 3G gives users ever faster access to the Internet and email over their cellular network with quad-band GSM and tri-band HSDPA for voice and data connectivity around the world.
iPhone 3G supports Wi-Fi, 3G and EDGE networks and automatically switches between them to ensure the fastest possible download speeds, the company said. It's made for multitasking, allowing users to browse the web, get map directions, or check your email while they are on a call.
Like the current iPhone models, the new one will operate exclusively on the AT&T wireless network.
