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Apple’s iPhone 4S, which launched just a few months ago, was the best handset released this year. From its solid design to the quality of its software, Apple’s handset went a long way in pushing the industry forward, and showing other handset makers how to build a device.
Of course, there might be many out there who disagree with that sentiment. They’ll say the iPhone 4S’ lack of a big, 4.3-inch display or 4G connectivity is enough to disqualify it. They might also point to Apple’s odd decision to keep the device’s design the same as its predecessor, iPhone 4, as a reason products that brought something new to the marketplace this year should top it on a “best of” list. Those critics might even say that by virtue of their operating system, Android-base handsets deserve to be placed above the iPhone.
But those critics are wrong. Apple’s smartphone is still the top choice for consumers and enterprise users around the globe. And to say otherwise, given how many poorly conceived products hit store shelves this year, is ridiculous.
Read on to find out why the iPhone 4S was this year’s best smartphone:
1. Best design on the market
Apple‘s iPhone 4S has the best design on the market. Its glass finish gives it a sleek look, and its prominent display and small physical home button leaves no question on how to use the device. It would have been nice if Apple had shown off a totally new iPhone design this year, but it didn’t. Even so, the device is still better looking than competing products.
2. A new wireless system is a welcome addition
When the iPhone 4 launched, consumers found reception would cut out when the device was held in a “death grip.” The iPhone 4S, however, comes with a new wireless system that addresses that issue and also allows for 4G-like data transmissions over AT&T’s 3G network. The device might not be 4G, but it’s close, and as Consumer Reports reported earlier this year, its signal quality is outstanding.
3. Siri, anyone?
Siri is one of the biggest advancements made this year in how users interact with devices. Now, iPhone 4S owners can talk to their smartphone to write SMS messages, check for appointments and more. Siri still has a long way to go, but it’s the first step toward an entirely hands-free approach for using smartphones.
4. The apps are still tops
Google’s Android Market made significant strides this year in delivering apps to customers. However, the marketplace is still far behind Apple’s App Store in terms of high-quality programs that people want to use. Plus, the Android Market has many apps that have been found to include malware.
Security, Reliability Matter
5. No security issues
Speaking of malware, unlike Android-based devices, Apple’s iPhone 4S this year did not get hit with any security troubles. The reason? iOS is more secure than Android. In the coming years, a growing number of cyber-criminals and malicious hackers are going to exploit Android-based devices more and more.
6. An enterprise option
Although the iPhone hasn’t always been the most enterprise-friendly option, it gaining favor among IT decision-makers around the world. They’re realizing that with a host of business-focused apps available to them, plus a nice remote device management option, there is now another option to the BlackBerry.
7. Pricing is spot-on
Apple launched the iPhone 4S at the same price as its predecessor-$199. Those who want more storage can pay $299 or $399 for the 32GB and 64GB options, respectively. At those prices, the iPhone 4S is at precisely the right price point. That said, other products have cheaper prices. But for all that consumers are getting for a couple hundred dollars, the iPhone 4S seems like a great bet.
8. Who needs exclusivity?
Interestingly, Apple’s iPhone was always criticized for only being available to AT&T customers, even though many of its top Android counterparts were offered only on a single carrier, as well. This year, however, Apple changed that by bringing the iPhone 4S to AT&T, Verizon Wireless and Sprint customers. The death of exclusivity is a major advancement for Apple’s iPhone.
9. Reliability is everything
When it’s all said and done, consumers want to buy products that will justify their price tags and deliver an experience they actually like over an extended period of time. Given the iPhone 4S’ outstanding reviews and high customer-satisfaction ratings, it’s clear that Apple’s smartphone is the most reliable option yet.
10. Services integration
One of the best things about the iPhone 4S is that it integrates the many services consumers around the globe are using each day. It includes support for Apple’s iTunes and App Store, as well as iCloud. And if folks want to engage in a video chat, they can do so via FaceTime with friends on other mobile products or Macs. Apple’s secret weapon nowadays is services. And its iPhone makes that abundantly clear.