While the iPhone 4s does not look much different from the iPhone 4, it does boast both hardware and software related improvements. As you may know, the iPhone 4 had some problems with dropping calls due to the placement of its antennas. The iPhone 4s has been redesigned to eliminate this problem, and it is no longer necessary to worry about how to hold the phone to avoid dropping important calls.
The processor is also upgraded, with the A5 CPU being used. This is the same CPU that is used in the iPad 2, though runs at 800MHz compared to 1GHz in the iPad 2. Even with the slight speed decrease, the phone still is one of the best performers on the market. Up to 64GB of storage space is available as well, which is plenty even for the most demanding power users. The camera on the iPhone 4s is one of the best on any cell phone on the market. The photos it can create rival a dedicated point and shoot camera, with rich color and impressive low light performance, making it a significant step forward from the camera on any iPhone before it.
The iPhone 4s also introduces Siri, which is a computerized virtual assistant built into the iOS 5 software. Using this new voice technology, you talk to Siri naturally and she can help you do anything on the phone just by speaking to her, making it easier than ever to check the weather, send a text, or put an appointment on your calendar.
There are a couple weak points, but nothing that spoils the experience. The latest 4G capability is still not available so users who wish for the fastest data transfer speeds will want to look elsewhere. The back of the phone is still constructed of glass making it easier to crack (when dropped) than a phone with a plastic back.
Need to Know: iPhone 4s
1. The best iPhone yet. Super fast and user-friendly. (The Good)
2. Camera is one of the best on any phone. (The Good)
3. Still no 4G. (The Bad)
4. Not the most durable phone around. (The Bad)
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Patrick Holland, CnetWith a premium build, good camera and free accessories in the box, Alcatel's Idol 4S is a solid midrange buy.
- GSMArena Team, GSMArenaThe iPhone 4S is blazing fast on the new dual-core CPU and graphics chip. And by the way, this is a long-term asset - new apps and services will take advantage and they'll be exclusive to the 4S. The iPhone is finally up there with the industry's finest cameraphones too. In fact, it may well have th...
- Good Housekeeping team, Good HousekeepingAs with all Apple upgrades, the iPhone 4S is better and faster than its predecessor — and was easily our top pick for a premium phone for AT&T customers. Enhancements include a more responsive dual core processor, an 8-megapixel camera with improved sensors, a sharper display, and slick ca...
- Clinton Jeff, UnleashThePhonesThe iPhone 4S is just as excellent a smartphone as it’s recent predecessors. It delivers a huge range of functionality along with an entire ecosystem that all together makes it one of the best phones in the market right now. Things like AirPlay, which I’m a huge fan of, are neat little features inco...
- Hanleigh Daniels, TechsmartWhilst Apple’s new iPhone 4S may look like the outgoing model, its faster CPU, enhanced antenna and new optics combine to make it one of our top 3 smartphones currently on the market. Regarding Siri - it sure is an interesting concept, but we soon lost interest as the novelty faded. The iPhone 4S co...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
Apple iPhone 4s prices will vary depending on retailer, age, special offers and whether or not it's purchased with a service plan. If purchased with a 2 year service contract for example, you would likely pay much less for the phone itself up front. Apple's suggested retail price is $549.00. You can compare iPhone 4s prices from around the web here on The Informr.
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the Apple iPhone 4s user manual here.
Apple backs up the iPhone 4s with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your iPhone 4s has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Apple support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Apple's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
Ask the Community
Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- Apple iPhone 4s Manual (PDF)
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