[IxDA Discuss] iPod Touch, staying realistic.

[Douglas Brashear]

You're right, the iPhone as pretty great to try the first time...I wouldn't say it was "delightful" for me, as the keyboard wasn't as accurate when I'd use my thumbs, and I'm not about to have that surgery :-) I loved the fact that it was so easy to master - amazing that it only took me 5 minutes of use to move from novice to expert user. But then I was left wanting...even if a car has 3.5 of the most perfectly shaped wheels, it's still a car with 3.5 wheels.

I'll admit, my slight distaste for the iPhone extends a bit beyond the device itself. First, the price is (was) extreme for such a device. Second, I've never been a fan of Apple holding back on features it knows people want just so they can release two rounds of devices instead of one (if I pay $600 for a device I want it to be cutting edge for more than 2 months). This is obvious with the omission 3G communications in the iPhone. Then there's AT&T. Finally, I have an issue with Jobs himself...his overuse of hyperbole at press events is easily seen though by those knowledgeable in the industry (that indeed Archos' devices were the first PMPs to include a browser).

That said, I'm now an Apple believer because the merits of some of their products and more importantly the extent to which they fit my needs. You all have helped me understand that a MacBook will run the Windows programs I need but give me the more usable Mac UX. I'll be purchasing one the next time we upgrade our home computer. 

In short, yes the iPhone is great...Apple is a company with a focus on UX, and it's clear in their products. The next gen iPhone will likely be great, and I'll likely buy one...for my wife. I'm looking at the HTC Tilt instead.

Just my $0.02...

- Doug :-)