iPhone 5

[OregonStrosFan]

Someone mind translating from techie to English the good, bad, and ugly about the new iPhone 5?  Thanks, I'll hang up and listen...

[Bench]

Someone mind translating from techie to English the good, bad, and ugly about the new iPhone 5?  Thanks, I'll hang up and listen...

Limey thinks it's great. 

[MusicMan]

Limey apparently invaded The Verge liveblog:

I'm going to make sweet love to this phone.

[Nate in IA]

It has a bigger, better screen, is lighter and thinner, has a single chip to do everyone's LTE services.  Couldn't really say what iOS6 will bring but MacRumors.com has a pretty good rundown on all the changes.

[Waldo]

You can ask 10 different people and get varying opinions on whether it's a disappointment or a game changer. I like the hardware (as I did with the 4 and 4S) but Apple's playing it safe on this one, and they can because tons of people will still buy it. Gotta credit them for that.

The flagship Android phones have long surpassed the iPhone in features and performance, and 16GB storage with no SD slot for $199 sucks when other $199 phones (e.g. HTC One X/EVO 4G LTE, Samsung Galaxy S3) have either 32GB and/or a memory card slot. Lack of an NFC chip will also suck if (when?) Google Wallet really takes off.

[MusicMan]

You can ask 10 different people and get varying opinions on whether it's a disappointment or a game changer.

I think Apple's out of the "game changer" business.

Remember when every demo would include "Oh, and one more thing..."?  That's over.

[Andyzipp]

I think Apple's out of the "game changer" business.

Remember when every demo would include "Oh, and one more thing..."?  That's over.

Didn't the guy who said "Oh and one more thing..." um, stop living?

[hostros7]

I'm finally giving up on blackberry and in the market for an alternative.  The Iphone5 was thought to be the frontrunner but now Nokia 920 and Samsung options in the mix.  The funny part is that I will agonize over this and then only use it for email, texting, and google, with some random photos thrown in.  I guess the important question is what device best accesses SnS?

[drew corleone]

I'm an Apple guy so I'll get it.

[BizidyDizidy]

I'm finally giving up on blackberry and in the market for an alternative.  The Iphone5 was thought to be the frontrunner but now Nokia 920 and Samsung options in the mix.  The funny part is that I will agonize over this and then only use it for email, texting, and google, with some random photos thrown in.  I guess the important question is what device best accesses SnS?

I got a Droid Razr Maxx and love it.

[BizidyDizidy]

Also - I actually find that SNS is not great to use in regular mode on any smartphone - I prefer the WAP version (although you do give up a bit of functionality)

[MusicMan]

Didn't the guy who said "Oh and one more thing..." um, stop living?

Yes, but I had figured they'd carry on his legacy.

[Waldo]

Also - I actually find that SNS is not great to use in regular mode on any smartphone - I prefer the WAP version (although you do give up a bit of functionality)

I've been thinking of installing support for Tapatalk.  If there's enough interest in it then I may go ahead and do it.

[OregonStrosFan]

I've been thinking of installing support for Tapatalk.  If there's enough interest in it then I may go ahead and do it.

You mean you haven't already created an SnS Mobile App?!?  Seriously though, I don't check out SnS much from my iPhone as its not particularly easy to do.  Any user friendly changes (or suggestions) would be appreciated.

[Bench]

I prefer the WAP version (although you do give up a bit of functionality)

Hey-oh, paisan!  Whodafuck is dis fuckin' cabrera cafone?  Stoonad.  

[BizidyDizidy]

You mean you haven't already created an SnS Mobile App?!?  Seriously though, I don't check out SnS much from my iPhone as its not particularly easy to do.  Any user friendly changes (or suggestions) would be appreciated.

http://www.spikesnstars.com/forums/index.php?;wap2

[hostros7]

I got a Droid Razr Maxx and love it.

Can you at least easily open and read microsoft office on it?  I don't need to manipulate but would like to be able to easily read ppt, pdf, excel, word, etc. 

[BizidyDizidy]

Yes. Also Swype is the greatest invention ever

[BizidyDizidy]

Would say that I wouldn't recommend for small hands though.  If you know what I mean.

[drew corleone]

Love Tapatalk. SNS on it would be clutch.

[Limey]

I missed all the new iPhone hoopla this time around.  I'm still trying to figure out of it's Apple or AT&T to blame for my 4S dropping its data signal every few hours.  You'll see that it's quite commonplace, if you Google it on your iPho...FUCK!

[Limey]

Someone mind translating from techie to English the good, bad, and ugly about the new iPhone 5?  Thanks, I'll hang up and listen...

Better...stronger...faster.

[MusicMan]

I missed all the new iPhone hoopla this time around.  I'm still trying to figure out of it's Apple or AT&T to blame for my 4S dropping its data signal every few hours.  You'll see that it's quite commonplace, if you Google it on your iPho...FUCK!

Replaced my phone with another 4S.  Problem went away.

[subnuclear]

The cable pin on the bottom of my 3GS has worn out and it takes 5 minutes of fiddling to get it to start charging. I used this as an excuse to buy an iPhone 5.

[OregonStrosFan]

Okay, which: (1) iPhone 5 do I need; and (2) which iPad should I get?

iPhone 5: frankly the 16 MB would work fine for me today, but I'm starting to use my 3S more and more these days, and will probably use the iPhone 5 even more.  I presume the 32 MB would be fine, but don't have the 'Apple Intuition' to know if that is likely to be sufficient in 2 years, or if I need a 64 MB...  Thoughts/recs?

iPad: stepping up to the iPhone 5, and figured its probably time for an iPad.  Unlike the iPhone 5, I consider the iPad more a 'convenience' purchase, and would have no issue buying one second hand, or would be willing to pick up a new iPad 64 MB 4G.  Thoughts/recs?

I'm 'willing' to go 'high end' on both if that is the most reasonable approach... but... my preference would be to save a couple of hundred off 'high end' prices if it would reasonably suit my needs...  Thanks in advance for the advice!

[Mr. Happy]

Okay, which: (1) iPhone 5 do I need; and (2) which iPad should I get?

iPhone 5: frankly the 16 MB would work fine for me today, but I'm starting to use my 3S more and more these days, and will probably use the iPhone 5 even more.  I presume the 32 MB would be fine, but don't have the 'Apple Intuition' to know if that is likely to be sufficient in 2 years, or if I need a 64 MB...  Thoughts/recs?

iPad: stepping up to the iPhone 5, and figured its probably time for an iPad.  Unlike the iPhone 5, I consider the iPad more a 'convenience' purchase, and would have no issue buying one second hand, or would be willing to pick up a new iPad 64 MB 4G.  Thoughts/recs?

I'm 'willing' to go 'high end' on both if that is the most reasonable approach... but... my preference would be to save a couple of hundred off 'high end' prices if it would reasonably suit my needs...  Thanks in advance for the advice!

Work gave me an Ipad, and it is sweet. I know nothing about the IPhone.

[Limey]

Okay, which: (1) iPhone 5 do I need; and (2) which iPad should I get?

iPhone 5: frankly the 16 MB would work fine for me today, but I'm starting to use my 3S more and more these days, and will probably use the iPhone 5 even more.  I presume the 32 MB would be fine, but don't have the 'Apple Intuition' to know if that is likely to be sufficient in 2 years, or if I need a 64 MB...  Thoughts/recs?

iPad: stepping up to the iPhone 5, and figured its probably time for an iPad.  Unlike the iPhone 5, I consider the iPad more a 'convenience' purchase, and would have no issue buying one second hand, or would be willing to pick up a new iPad 64 MB 4G.  Thoughts/recs?

I'm 'willing' to go 'high end' on both if that is the most reasonable approach... but... my preference would be to save a couple of hundred off 'high end' prices if it would reasonably suit my needs...  Thanks in advance for the advice!

In both cases, if you plan to go heavy on video, you'll need more memory.  If not, then 16GB will be fine but 32GB would be safe.  I have a 32GB 4S and have no plans to upgrade to a 5 (I skip every other iteration) but, if I were upgrading, I'd stick with 32GB.

As for the iPad, if it's only for convenience, get the cheaper wifi only model*.

* AT&T are supposed to be coming out with shared data plans, so you can use the same one for your iPhone and iPad.  But this only makes sense if you plan to watch a lot of internet porn do a lot of internet research on your iPad when outside of wifi zones.

[OregonStrosFan]

In both cases, if you plan to go heavy on video, you'll need more memory.  If not, then 16GB will be fine but 32GB would be safe.  I have a 32GB 4S and have no plans to upgrade to a 5 (I skip every other iteration) but, if I were upgrading, I'd stick with 32GB.

As for the iPad, if it's only for convenience, get the cheaper wifi only model*.

* AT&T are supposed to be coming out with shared data plans, so you can use the same one for your iPhone and iPad.  But this only makes sense if you plan to watch a lot of internet porn do a lot of internet research on your iPad when outside of wifi zones.

Thanks Limey!

[Limey]

In answer to the original question, here's CNET's review.

The good: The iPhone 5 adds everything we wanted in the iPhone 4S: 4G LTE, a longer, larger screen, and a faster A6 processor. Plus, its top-to-bottom redesign is sharp, slim, and feather-light.

The bad: Sprint and Verizon models can't use voice and data simultaneously. The smaller connector renders current accessories unusable without an adapter. There's no NFC, and the screen size pales in comparison to jumbo Android models.

The bottom line: The iPhone 5 completely rebuilds the iPhone on a framework of new features and design, addressing its major previous shortcomings. It's absolutely the best iPhone to date, and it easily secures its place in the top tier of the smartphone universe.

[drew corleone]

Whenever they finally do away with the grandfathered unlimited plan I'll probably go with one of those sharing plans (by then I suspect I'll have an iPad with 3G instead of the wifi only one I have now).

I'm definitely upgrading to 32GB for i5... I thought 16GB would be fine on the 4, since that's what I had on the 3, but i'm stretched pretty thin, even without music, because I take a lot of pics and videos.

[Limey]

Whenever they finally do away with the grandfathered unlimited plan I'll probably go with one of those sharing plans (by then I suspect I'll have an iPad with 3G instead of the wifi only one I have now).

Right.  They can take my unlimited data plan when they can pry it out of my cold dead hands force me to give it up to get an iPhone 6.

By then, the iPad should also have been upgrade to the LTE-capable chip they just put in the iPhone 5.  All reports are that LTE is faster than most home wifi routers, and that would tempt me to upgrade from my wifi-only iPad 1.  A shared plan makes much more sense if running two cell-connected devices and, to be honest, I don't think I currently burn through that much data usage on my current phone.

[Limey]

By then, the iPad should also have been upgrade to the LTE-capable chip they just put in the iPhone 5.  All reports are that LTE is faster than most home wifi routers, and that would tempt me to upgrade from my wifi-only iPad 1.  A shared plan makes much more sense if running two cell-connected devices and, to be honest, I don't think I currently burn through that much data usage on my current phone.

Just thinking about this...

If LTE is that fast, I can use an iPad to be a personal hotspot at home, and ditch Comcast's internet service.  OK, I'll use more data and have to increase my plan size, but it's got to be worth looking at to see if there are savings.

[Waldo]

Sprint and Verizon models can't use voice and data simultaneously.

They should be able to if LTE is available.

Edit - just saw that other LTE phones can do this, just not the iPhone 5.  Weird.

[Limey]

For those interested, Apple just released iOS6 and iTunes 10.8.2 (a new look interface and other changes).

[HudsonHawk]

They should be able to if LTE is available.

Edit - just saw that other LTE phones can do this, just not the iPhone 5.  Weird.

I can do this on my iPhone 4.  So why is this not a feature on the 5?  I mean, what's the reasoning behind taking away the feature?

[Limey]

I can do this on my iPhone 4.  So why is this not a feature on the 5?  I mean, what's the reasoning behind taking away the feature?

My understanding is that Verizon-based iPhones could never do this due to limitations of their network.  Dunno about Sprint.  FWIW, I don't think Apple is taking it away, just that there was an expectation that Verizon/Spring LTE phones could do it, when apparently they may not be able to.

[BizidyDizidy]

I can talk and use data at the same time on my Verizon Razr Maxx.

[Ty in Tampa]

....iTunes 10.8.2 (a new look interface and other changes).

"Coming in October"

[Limey]

"Coming in October"

Apple Releases OS X 10.8.2 with Facebook Integration and Game Center

I think I conflated the above update - to accommodate iOS6 - with the revamp coming later.

[HudsonHawk]

For those interested, Apple just released iOS6 and iTunes 10.8.2 (a new look interface and other changes).

iTunes has recently offered me version 10.7, which I'm downloading as I type.  What the hell?

[Waldo]

I can do this on my iPhone 4.  So why is this not a feature on the 5?  I mean, what's the reasoning behind taking away the feature?

The iPhone 4/4s does not have LTE.

My understanding is that Verizon-based iPhones could never do this due to limitations of their network.  Dunno about Sprint.  FWIW, I don't think Apple is taking it away, just that there was an expectation that Verizon/Spring LTE phones could do it, when apparently they may not be able to.

Every other LTE smartphone on both Sprint and Verizon's networks can do this.  The iPhone 5 is the only one that cannot.

[HudsonHawk]

The iPhone 4/4s does not have LTE.

I don't know what LTE is.  But I can talk and use data at the same time on my 4.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I don't know what LTE is.  But I can talk and use data at the same time on my 4.

Sure you can, you have AT&T, but you couldn't if your carrier was Verizon or Sprint.

[HudsonHawk]

Sure you can, you have AT&T, but you couldn't if your carrier was Verizon or Sprint.

Right.  Limey answered that.  I was wondering what Waldo's point was about the 4/4S not having LTE.

[BizidyDizidy]

Right.  Limey answered that.  I was wondering what Waldo's point was about the 4/4S not having LTE.

LTE is a faster connection. It is awesome.

[HudsonHawk]

LTE is a faster connection. It is awesome.

My unlimited data plan is awesomer. 

[Andyzipp]

My unlimited data plan is awesomer. 

One has nothing to do with the other.  It's like saying your pizza is awesomer than my comb.

[BizidyDizidy]

I don't know what I am doing wrong, but I have a hard time making a significant dent into my data plan (which I think is the smallest they had for my phone, 4GB a month).

[Bench]

One has nothing to do with the other.  It's like saying your pizza is awesomer than my comb.

I'm willing to bet HH is convinced that his pizza is awesomer than your comb.

[HudsonHawk]

One has nothing to do with the other.  It's like saying your pizza is awesomer than my comb.

Except that I can't get LTE without upgrading and then losing my unlimited data plan. 

[HudsonHawk]

I don't know what I am doing wrong, but I have a hard time making a significant dent into my data plan (which I think is the smallest they had for my phone, 4GB a month).

You're obviously not watching enough online porn.

[BizidyDizidy]

You're obviously not watching enough online porn.

Pretty sure that's not the problem.

[WakePhil]

Love Tapatalk. SNS on it would be clutch.

Agreed. I would love to see this.

[Andyzipp]

Except that I can't get LTE without upgrading and then losing my unlimited data plan. 

I don't know that that's true.  LTE is just a faster network, just like when iOS5 allowed AT&T to access "4G".  Have they confirmed that buying a iPhone 5 will force you to change rate plans?

[HudsonHawk]

I don't know that that's true.  LTE is just a faster network, just like when iOS5 allowed AT&T to access "4G".  Have they confirmed that buying a iPhone 5 will force you to change rate plans?

They have told me that I can't get 4G/LTE without updating my data plan.  Which means I lose my unlimited data.  I don't know if I can stick with my 3G-only unlimited plan if I get a 5.

[Andyzipp]

They have told me that I can't get 4G/LTE without updating my data plan.  Which means I lose my unlimited data.  I don't know if I can stick with my 3G-only unlimited plan if I get a 5.

So, I have AT&T.  I have 4G on my iPhone 4s.  I have my unlimited data plan.  I bought the phone at an Apple Store.

[Andyzipp]

First result on Google says you may have received bad information.

http://www.bgr.com/2012/09/12/att-iphone-5-grandfathered-unlimited-data-plans-confirme/

[Limey]

iTunes has recently offered me version 10.7, which I'm downloading as I type.  What the hell?

10.8 is the coming update, I believe.

10.8.2 is the OS X update to dovetail with iOS6.  M'K?

[HudsonHawk]

So, I have AT&T.  I have 4G on my iPhone 4s.  I have my unlimited data plan.  I bought the phone at an Apple Store.

That's not what AT&T has told me.  I have a 4 and a 4s, neither have 4G because of that. 

So how do I get 4G?

[Andyzipp]

That's not what AT&T has told me.  I have a 4 and a 4s, neither have 4G because of that. 

So how do I get 4G?

Go to the Apple Store, and they'll take care of it.   Or Best Buy for that matter.

What version of iOS are you running and what verision of the iPhone do you have?

[Limey]

That's not what AT&T has told me.  I have a 4 and a 4s, neither have 4G because of that. 

You know that AT&T doesn't know its arse from its elbow, right?

So how do I get 4G?

Get an iPhone 4 or 4S.  They're dirt cheap now.

[BizidyDizidy]

So, I have AT&T.  I have 4G on my iPhone 4s.  I have my unlimited data plan.  I bought the phone at an Apple Store.

I've read that the "4G" on the Iphone 4s is not real 4g, more like marketing BS. You have to go to the 5 to get LTE (real 4g).

Don't know how big a difference there is in reality, but I do know that the LTE is pretty awesome.

[BizidyDizidy]

Here's a chart I found:

http://tasel.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/all-networks.png

I think basically the 4s can do something like HSPA+, vs. LTE.

[OregonStrosFan]

You have to go to the 5 to get LTE (real 4g).

And be somewhere where your carrier has LTE.  Currently AT&T has only 72 cities (fortunately PDX was just added), as opposed to Verizons almost 400 LTE 'enabled' cities.  (ComputerWorld article LINK); (CNN Money coverage map LINK).

[BizidyDizidy]

I've also heard that in cities where ATT doesn't work that well due to the network being overwhelmed, the new 4G LTE network doesn't have the same issues (yet, who knows once everyone switches over).

[Limey]

I've also heard that in cities where ATT doesn't work that well due to the network being overwhelmed, the new 4G LTE network doesn't have the same issues (yet, who knows once everyone switches over).

Right.  AT&T has basically cratered in big cities whenever iPhones have hit the market.  I would expect this to happen again to their LTE network once the 5's hit the streets tomorrow.

[BizidyDizidy]

Every other LTE smartphone on both Sprint and Verizon's networks can do this.  The iPhone 5 is the only one that cannot.

Just read that it's a question of having one or two LTE antennas - Apple just put one in.

[NeilT]

One has nothing to do with the other.  It's like saying your pizza is awesomer than my comb.

I'd rather have a pizza than a comb.

[Ty in Tampa]

Any reports of iOS 6 performance on an iPhone 4? I'm naturally skeptical.

[BizidyDizidy]

Any reports of iOS 6 performance on an iPhone 4? I'm naturally skeptical.

It's not like they would let you install an irreversible software upgrade that would render your phone unusable.

[Ty in Tampa]

It's not like they would let you install an irreversible software upgrade that would render your phone unusable.

[appleglasses]Of course not.[/appleglasses]

[HudsonHawk]

Go to the Apple Store, and they'll take care of it.   Or Best Buy for that matter.

What version of iOS are you running and what verision of the iPhone do you have?

I have a 4 and a 4S.  Latest iOS.  Guy at the Apple store told me I had to upgrade to get 4G and would lose unlimited data.  Sounds like I need to get to the bottom of it.

[HudsonHawk]

You know that AT&T doesn't know its arse from its elbow, right?

Possibly.  But they *are* my provider. 

Get an iPhone 4 or 4S.  They're dirt cheap now.

I have both.  Neither has 4G.

[MusicMan]

One has nothing to do with the other.  It's like saying your pizza is awesomer than my comb.

How has HH not yet definitively stated that his pizza is awesomer than Andy's comb?

[T. J.]

I have a 4 and a 4S.  Latest iOS.  Guy at the Apple store told me I had to upgrade to get 4G and would lose unlimited data.  Sounds like I need to get to the bottom of it.

I have unlimited data, and am receiving the iphone 5 tomorrow (if my order status is correct).  Part of my order summary says "Data Unlimited for iPhone on 4G LTE".

[Limey]

Any reports of iOS 6 performance on an iPhone 4? I'm naturally skeptical.

Mine's running fine on my 4S.  Haven't had to use maps yet - lots of people are having a hard time with that one.

[hostros7]

so, i have AT&T and just added an iPhone5 to my cart and it says "unlimited data" for $30/month.

[Limey]

Re: Maps

Apple Maps service loses train stations, shrinks tower and creates new airport

Why TF they thought they need to reinvent Google's service, is beyond me.

[HudsonHawk]

I have unlimited data, and am receiving the iphone 5 tomorrow (if my order status is correct).  Part of my order summary says "Data Unlimited for iPhone on 4G LTE".

Based on the link Andy posted, ATT has said they will honor unlimited plans when you upgrade to the 5.  I have a 4 and a 4S and was told recently that to get 4G LTE service, I have to upgrade to a 4G data plan, which would kill my unlimited status.  I don't know if they will honor my unlimited plan if I simply switch to a 4G data plan without upgrading phones.  I will find out tonight, however.

[BizidyDizidy]

Re: Maps

Apple Maps service loses train stations, shrinks tower and creates new airport

Why TF they thought they need to reinvent Google's service, is beyond me.

Cool article I read on google maps:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2012/09/how-google-builds-its-maps-and-what-it-means-for-the-future-of-everything/261913/

[HudsonHawk]

so, i have AT&T and just added an iPhone5 to my cart and it says "unlimited data" for $30/month.

I want to ugrade to 4G/LTE without upgrading to the 5.  We shall see if that's possible.

[BizidyDizidy]

Upgrading to LTE without upgrading to the 5 is not possible.

[Limey]

Based on the link Andy posted, ATT has said they will honor unlimited plans when you upgrade to the 5.  I have a 4 and a 4S and was told recently that to get 4G LTE service, I have to upgrade to a 4G data plan, which would kill my unlimited status.  I don't know if they will honor my unlimited plan if I simply switch to a 4G data plan without upgrading phones.  I will find out tonight, however.

I will keep an eye on AT&T's HQ, to see if it disappears from Apple Maps tonight.  Eh?  Oh.

[HudsonHawk]

Upgrading to LTE without upgrading to the 5 is not possible.

ATT and Apple tell me it is.  Of course, they could be lying to me.

[Limey]

ATT and Apple tell me it is.  Of course, they could be lying to me.

Simples:  4 and 4S don't have an LTE chip; 5 does.

[HudsonHawk]

Simples:  4 and 4S don't have an LTE chip; 5 does.

Man I hate those guys.

[Limey]

Man I hate those guys.

AT&T, or meerkats?

[HudsonHawk]

AT&T, or meerkats?

They guys at ATT who prey on my wireless naivete.

[Ebby Calvin]

Simples:

I don't know why, but that cracks me up.

[hostros7]

so, what are the odds that I just walk into a store tomorrow and walk out with a 16GB iPhone?  Similar to Astros making the playoffs next year or a menage with Rachel Ray and Giada?

[HudsonHawk]

so, what are the odds that I just walk into a store tomorrow and walk out with a 16GB iPhone?  Similar to Astros making the playoffs next year or a menage with Rachel Ray and Giada?

With any ol' iPhone?  I'd say they're pretty good.  Or did you want a 5?

[hostros7]

With any ol' iPhone?  I'd say they're pretty good.  Or did you want a 5?

The 5.  I don't really want it, but blackberry's insistence on violently stomping on its own dick for the last three years has required that I go elsewhere.  Since I already have ipod, ipad, itunes, it really doesn't make much sense to go to droid or samsung.

[subnuclear]

The 5.  I don't really want it, but blackberry's insistence on violently stomping on its own dick for the last three years has required that I go elsewhere.  Since I already have ipod, ipad, itunes, it really doesn't make much sense to go to droid or samsung.

I ordered my online and they said it would be a couple weeks. Don't know if that's relevant to store purchases or not.

Also, I got a 64GB, so that may be a factor, too.

[MusicMan]

Man I hate those guys.

Nazis?

[HudsonHawk]

Nazis?

They're nihilists.  There's nothing to be afraid of.

[OregonStrosFan]

so, what are the odds that I just walk into a store tomorrow and walk out with a 16GB iPhone?  Similar to Astros making the playoffs next year or a menage with Rachel Ray and Giada?

I was wondering the same thing.  This article was somewhat helpful: LINK

[OregonStrosFan]

so, what are the odds that I just walk into a store tomorrow and walk out with a 16GB iPhone? 

I'm going to find out here shortly, wish me luck.  FWIW though, I have a plan...  There is only 1 WalMart in the Portland metro area (people fight tooth and nail around here to keep WalMart away), and NO SELF-RESPECTING PORTLAND MACHEAD would be caught dead buying an iPhone at WalMart, so with any luck my wait will be minimal and 'victory' will be achieved!!!  If that doesn't work though, I've got my Radio Shack and Targets mapped out just in case...  (My iPhone 3 battery is about done, I don't want to wait 3 more weeks for a phone, and, well, I have kinda bought into the excitement a tad...).

[MusicMan]

I'm going to find out here shortly, wish me luck.  FWIW though, I have a plan...  There is only 1 WalMart in the Portland metro area (people fight tooth and nail around here to keep WalMart away), and NO SELF-RESPECTING PORTLAND MACHEAD would be caught dead buying an iPhone at WalMart, so with any luck my wait will be minimal and 'victory' will be achieved!!!  If that doesn't work though, I've got my Radio Shack and Targets mapped out just in case...  (My iPhone 3 battery is about done, I don't want to wait 3 more weeks for a phone, and, well, I have kinda bought into the excitement a tad...).

No phone is worth WalMart.

[hostros7]

I'm going to find out here shortly, wish me luck.  FWIW though, I have a plan...  There is only 1 WalMart in the Portland metro area (people fight tooth and nail around here to keep WalMart away), and NO SELF-RESPECTING PORTLAND MACHEAD would be caught dead buying an iPhone at WalMart, so with any luck my wait will be minimal and 'victory' will be achieved!!!  If that doesn't work though, I've got my Radio Shack and Targets mapped out just in case...  (My iPhone 3 battery is about done, I don't want to wait 3 more weeks for a phone, and, well, I have kinda bought into the excitement a tad...).

I went for a run this morning and noticed only about 10 people outside the Rice Village ATT store.  Went home, took a shower, stopped back by and there were 30 people in line or so.  The manager came out and handed out waters and said he thought everyone would get one, so I stuck around.  Waited for 30 minutes, "had" to get the 32 because 16 was sold out in black, and, well, F white.  All in all, a pretty successful trip. 

[Limey]

Here, an Android fanboy does drop tests for the iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S3.

The iPhone got a little scuffed up on the edges after 4 consecutive drops onto stone from pocket, chest, ear and head height.  The Samsung screen cracked from the chest-high drop, and again from the ear-high drop, which also saw the back come flying off (but that was ok because it's just a cheap bit of plastic...WTF?).  He didn't even try the head-high drop on the Samsung.

On durability, it was game, set, match iPhone.

[OregonStrosFan]

There is plenty of AT&T white 16 availability, but almost nothing else. I did finally come across a 32 though, and should have it shortly (which is a good thing as I've used 1/3rd of my current iPhones battery in the last 90 or so minutes...

[EasTexAstro]

Here, an Android fanboy does drop tests for the iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S3.

The iPhone got a little scuffed up on the edges after 4 consecutive drops onto stone from pocket, chest, ear and head height.  The Samsung screen cracked from the chest-high drop, and again from the ear-high drop, which also saw the back come flying off (but that was ok because it's just a cheap bit of plastic...WTF?).  He didn't even try the head-high drop on the Samsung.

On durability, it was game, set, match iPhone.

My Samsung, in the otterbox, seems indestructible.

[chuck]

OSF preparing to storm the wireless department:

http://tinyurl.com/8ncwuuu

[OregonStrosFan]

OSF preparing to storm the wireless department:

http://tinyurl.com/8ncwuuu

That's awesome! Actually, Walmart was my 2nd stop as I did try Best Buy 1st...  Finally got it right on my 5th stop (The Mac Store). And nope, haven't been driving all around. 1st 2 stops were within 1/2 mile of each other, and the last 3 were in the same mall...

[Limey]

My Samsung, in the otterbox, seems indestructible.

Here's the key thing: Otterbox.

I prefer to carry my iPhone "naked", because I find the casings bulky and ugly.

[Noe]

Here's the key thing: Otterbox.

I prefer to carry my iPhone "naked", because I find the casings bulky and ugly.

I have a SPECK outer case on my Droid. It does bulk it up a bit, but it insure it is going to be safe in case of clumsy fingers. Why did I get a case? Because my office mate on two of her iPhones destroyed her glass case in normal "oopsies" at her desk. I asked her if smartphones were really that flimsy and she replied they don't have to be with an outer case.

It just doesn't make it sleek and fashionable.  Huh? So when I traded in my Blackberry for a Droid, first thing I asked for was an outer case.

[BizidyDizidy]

Here's the key thing: Otterbox.

I prefer to carry my iPhone "naked", because I find the casings bulky and ugly.

I think people in my immediately family have broken iphone screens about 10 times in the past 2 years, so I wouldn't call them indestructible.

[EasTexAstro]

Here's the key thing: Otterbox.

I prefer to carry my iPhone "naked", because I find the casings bulky and ugly.

I know. It was an endorsement of the Otterbox, not the phone. I do like my Samsung, though.

Where I work, there will be dropped phones. After all the abuse, I take my phone out of the case once a week to clean the case. The phone looks brand new after almost a year. My son's iPhone has been broken twice in the past year from drops about hip high.

[HudsonHawk]

Here's the key thing: Otterbox.

I prefer to carry my iPhone "naked", because I find the casings bulky and ugly.

Circumcised?

[Jacksonian]

Circumcised?

He's European.

[T. J.]

Note if you're getting your iphone5 today (or any other day) and have AT&T, you lose all existing voice-mails on your phone the second you fire up your new one.  There's no easy way to save voice-mails, so if you, like me, have any old ones you can't bear losing, you need to find a way to record them elsewhere.

[HudsonHawk]

He's European.

But his iPhone is as American as his BMW.

[HudsonHawk]

Note if you're getting your iphone5 today (or any other day) and have AT&T, you lose all existing voice-mails on your phone the second you fire up your new one.  There's no easy way to save voice-mails, so if you, like me, have any old ones you can't bear losing, you need to find a way to record them elsewhere.

Right. You don't want to have to pay *another* $1.99 per minute.

[Limey]

I know. It was an endorsement of the Otterbox, not the phone. I do like my Samsung, though.

Where I work, there will be dropped phones. After all the abuse, I take my phone out of the case once a week to clean the case. The phone looks brand new after almost a year. My son's iPhone has been broken twice in the past year from drops about hip high.

Be honest.  How many of those dropped iPhones are because gleach has a phone in one hand and nachos in the other?

FWIW, I dropped my iPhone 4S onto concrete about 3 days after getting it.  Scuffed the bezel, but nothing more than that.  Taking the gloss of it was actually a good thing, like scuffing a new pair of shoes, you learn to forget about it instead of tiptoeing around.

[Limey]

Circumcised?

Man, do I have a story to tell...

[Limey]

Note if you're getting your iphone5 today (or any other day) and have AT&T, you lose all existing voice-mails on your phone the second you fire up your new one.  There's no easy way to save voice-mails, so if you, like me, have any old ones you can't bear losing, you need to find a way to record them elsewhere.

Call-backs from sex lines are hard to let go of.

[T. J.]

Call-backs from sex lines are hard to let go of.

Or a dead father.

Posted from my iphone5 sucker!

[OregonStrosFan]

Note if you're getting your iphone5 today (or any other day) and have AT&T, you lose all existing voice-mails on your phone the second you fire up your new one.  There's no easy way to save voice-mails, so if you, like me, have any old ones you can't bear losing, you need to find a way to record them elsewhere.

FWIW, all the old voicemails that I'd yet to clear off my iPhone 3GS are still there, even after the iPhone 5 was fired up...

[T. J.]

FWIW, all the old voicemails that I'd yet to clear off my iPhone 3GS are still there, even after the iPhone 5 was fired up...

Yep. Discovered the same thing. I was going off info AT&T emailed me. They don't get transferred to your new phone, but they're still there on your old one. (No easy way to transfer them to your computer for posterity though.)

Compared to the old 3GS this thing feels like a wafer in my hand. LTE seems blazingly fast so far too.

[Waldo]

Here, an Android fanboy does drop tests for the iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S3.

The iPhone got a little scuffed up on the edges after 4 consecutive drops onto stone from pocket, chest, ear and head height.  The Samsung screen cracked from the chest-high drop, and again from the ear-high drop, which also saw the back come flying off (but that was ok because it's just a cheap bit of plastic...WTF?).  He didn't even try the head-high drop on the Samsung.

On durability, it was game, set, match iPhone.

Samsung's phones have crappy build quality; this is no secret.

I would have liked to see the iPhone 5 against the EVO 4G LTE.  Both phones have aluminum unibody construction.

[OregonStrosFan]

Yep. Discovered the same thing. I was going off info AT&T emailed me. They don't get transferred to your new phone, but they're still there on your old one. (No easy way to transfer them to your computer for posterity though.)

Compared to the old 3GS this thing feels like a wafer in my hand. LTE seems blazingly fast so far too.

Actual;y, I was told that there is. Simpy use the mic to record what is being played on voicemail. I'll get around to it the next coupe of days and let you know what I figure out.

[Noe]

Actual;y, I was told that there is. Simpy use the mic to record what is being played on voicemail. I'll get around to it the next coupe of days and let you know what I figure out.

If you can tether the phone like a data disk to a computer, you can use the recording software (Windows or MAC) to record the message.

[Waldo]

If you can tether the phone like a data disk to a computer, you can use the recording software (Windows or MAC) to record the message.

Except the iPhone doesn't support USB mass storage mode. Just take a cable from the headphone jack into the mic input on a computer and record it that way.

[Andyzipp]

Except the iPhone doesn't support USB mass storage mode. Just take a cable from the headphone jack into the mic input on a computer and record it that way.

It supports some sort of mass storage mode for photos and video.  Surprised it doesn't for VMs.

[Noe]

Except the iPhone doesn't support USB mass storage mode.

Wow!

[Waldo]

Another thought - my phone allows me to forward voicemails to an e-mail address, which attaches the VM audio file to the message.  Can the iPhone do that?

[Outlawscotty]

They guys at ATT who prey on my wireless naivete.

The AT&T vultures will try and say anything to remove your grandfathered unlimited plan, including skirting the truth.  Stand firm.

[Limey]

Tim Cook has published an open letter, apologising for the suck-ass Maps app, suggesting that iOS 6 users download another map app or use the Google website.

Jobs.  Grave.  Spinning.

[Waldo]

So they're recommending that people use other map apps, but they're still blocking Google's app. Brilliant. They would block the Google Maps web site if they thought they could get away with it.

[Uncle Charlie]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMsLArefSOw&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Although this has to be a shtick I can't help but knowing it could be true.

[chandler44]

What am I missing in regards to the new Maps app being so terrible?  I used it a lot today and I liked it a lot. The turn by turn navigation played over my speakers, and each time it briefly turned down my radio so I could head it. It was much more convenient then the old google maps, at least when using it as a navigation device while driving.

[hostros7]

What am I missing in regards to the new Maps app being so terrible?  I used it a lot today and I liked it a lot. The turn by turn navigation played over my speakers, and each time it briefly turned down my radio so I could head it. It was much more convenient then the old google maps, at least when using it as a navigation device while driving.

Did you connect with blue tooth?  Never done that before

[Bench]

How do you download podcasts onto your iPhone?

[chandler44]

Did you connect with blue tooth?  Never done that before

Yeah, my truck has built in blue tooth connectivity.  I was playing music through the USB plug.

I did some googling, and apparently there's some issues with them leaving off public transportation options (which was nice that the old one had it, even though I don't need it every day, the few days I am in Austin during the year it was useful to have) and errors in the maps themselves.  I haven't run into the second error, but for what I needed from it today, it was nice.

[NeilT]

How do you download podcasts onto your iPhone?

It's easy to subscribe to podcasts through iTunes.  I've got some I listen to all the time on my IPhone, All Music Considered, Live Concerts, and Planet Money, all from NPR, Poetry off the Shelf from the Poetry Foundation, and The Splendid Table from American Public Media.  Now I'm curious if anyone knows of any great podcasts I'm missing.

[Bench]

It's easy to subscribe to podcasts through iTunes.  I've got some I listen to all the time on my IPhone, All Music Considered, Live Concerts, and Planet Money, all from NPR, Poetry off the Shelf from the Poetry Foundation, and The Splendid Table from American Public Media.  Now I'm curious if anyone knows of any great podcasts I'm missing.

The WTF podcast with Marc Maron is good, but you have to have a high tolerance for Maron.  That and This American Life and Bill Simmons comprise the bulk of my podcasting.

I understand how to get the podcasts on the computer, but I can't figure out how to get them on my phone.  I would like to listen to Marc Maron whining while I text and drive.

[NeilT]

The WTF podcast with Marc Maron is good, but you have to have a high tolerance for Maron.  That and This American Life and Bill Simmons comprise the bulk of my podcasting.

I understand how to get the podcasts on the computer, but I can't figure out how to get them on my phone.  I would like to listen to Marc Maron whining while I text and drive.

When you plug your IPhone in and ITunes pops up, click your IPhone after it syncs.  On your IPhone menu across the top of the screen one of the choices is podcast.  Go there.  That should let you sync the podcasts to your phone.   

[subnuclear]

I'm fond of Dan Carlin's Hardcore History (dramatic stories of mostly military history) and Radiolab (popular science stories). Those are pretty popular.

[Bench]

When you plug your IPhone in and ITunes pops up, click your IPhone after it syncs.  On your IPhone menu across the top of the screen one of the choices is podcast.  Go there.  That should let you sync the podcasts to your phone.   

Well that makes sense.  Thanks.

[NeilT]

Well that makes sense.  Thanks.

De nada.

[HudsonHawk]

Ok, this is absurd.  I went to two locations last night...AT&T store and Best Buy, and iPhone 5 is not available unless I pre-ordered.  They say it will still be some weeks before one can simply walk into a store and get a 5.  That can't possibly be true, can it?

[drew corleone]

You can try ordering online at 10pm for next-day store pickup - I know a few people that have had success - but I've tried five times and have not seen any in stock at either Austin store. The Knox street store in Dallas either has less demand or gets more phones than anywhere else in the state.

[Andyzipp]

Ok, this is absurd.  I went to two locations last night...AT&T store and Best Buy, and iPhone 5 is not available unless I pre-ordered.  They say it will still be some weeks before one can simply walk into a store and get a 5.  That can't possibly be true, can it?

Hearsay only, but the Apple Stores are on a 3-4 week wait if you order online for in-store pick up.  However, they get shipments every morning.

[HudsonHawk]

Fuck em.  I'm posting from my new Galaxy S III.

[BizidyDizidy]

Fuck em.  I'm posting from my new Galaxy S III.

Love Android

[HudsonHawk]

Love Android

I loved my iPhone.  Wanted a 5.  But if Apple won't sell me one, I'll go with someone who will.

[BizidyDizidy]

I loved my iPhone.  Wanted a 5.  But if Apple won't sell me one, I'll go with someone who will.

Wouldn't have pegged you as someone who would give up on the phone they like over a 3 week delay.

[Bench]

Wouldn't have pegged you as someone who would give up on the phone they like over a 3 week delay.

I thought a jury determined they were the same product.

[EasTexAstro]

I've never had an iPhone, but I do love my Samsung. and it cost less.

[HudsonHawk]

Wouldn't have pegged you as someone who would give up on the phone they like over a 3 week delay.

I'm not a fanboy.  I like the iPhone, but I'm sure I can like something else too.

[HudsonHawk]

OK, apparently I can't like the Samsung Galaxy S3.  I tried, I really did, but it just wasn't for me.  It was too big, too thin, and everytime I even looked at the screen things would happen.  Also, just couldn't get used to the Android platform.  So I had to return it, re-activate my old iPhone 4 along with my upgrade eligibility.  AT&T hasn't had any since the launch date and don't know when/if they will ever get any more.  Apple store people told me to get online at 10:00 pm and try "pick up in store".  I did that tonight, and none are available in Houston.  You can get whatever you want all over the place in Dallas, San Antonio or Austin, but nothing in Houston.  I'll try for a few days (though 10 pm is past my bed time), and if not, it's still 3-4 weeks to order one.  They told me if I ordered today, there's a chance I can get it before Thanksgiving.

Sigh.  Apparently Apple hates me like AT&T hates chuck.

[Trey]

It's easy to subscribe to podcasts through iTunes.  I've got some I listen to all the time on my IPhone, All Music Considered, Live Concerts, and Planet Money, all from NPR, Poetry off the Shelf from the Poetry Foundation, and The Splendid Table from American Public Media.  Now I'm curious if anyone knows of any great podcasts I'm missing.

I really like The Tobolowsky Files.  Someone else mentioned WTF.  I really enjoy the Nerdist podcast when they have a guest/topic I'm interested in.

[drew corleone]

OK, apparently I can't like the Samsung Galaxy S3.  I tried, I really did, but it just wasn't for me.  It was too big, too thin, and everytime I even looked at the screen things would happen.  Also, just couldn't get used to the Android platform.  So I had to return it, re-activate my old iPhone 4 along with my upgrade eligibility.  AT&T hasn't had any since the launch date and don't know when/if they will ever get any more.  Apple store people told me to get online at 10:00 pm and try "pick up in store".  I did that tonight, and none are available in Houston.  You can get whatever you want all over the place in Dallas, San Antonio or Austin, but nothing in Houston.  I'll try for a few days (though 10 pm is past my bed time), and if not, it's still 3-4 weeks to order one.  They told me if I ordered today, there's a chance I can get it before Thanksgiving.

Sigh.  Apparently Apple hates me like AT&T hates chuck.

Keep trying. I got it to work last week and that night I saw some in Houston. Start around 9:55 and just keep refreshing.

[HudsonHawk]

Keep trying. I got it to work last week and that night I saw some in Houston. Start around 9:55 and just keep refreshing.

I need to be in bed at 9:55.  But I'll try again.  Apple people told me today that now they're not sure they will have any before Christmas. AT&T doesn't know if they'll ever get any.  What a monumental clusterfuck the iPhone 5 release has been.

[Limey]

I need to be in bed at 9:55.  But I'll try again.  Apple people told me today that now they're not sure they will have any before Christmas. AT&T doesn't know if they'll ever get any.  What a monumental clusterfuck the iPhone 5 release has been.

I think the word you're looking for is "success".  They've sold eleventy-billion of them since the release date, and can't make them fast enough.  If it were any other product/company, people would be lauding it as a galactic win.

[HudsonHawk]

I think the word you're looking for is "success".  They've sold eleventy-billion of them since the release date, and can't make them fast enough.  If it were any other product/company, people would be lauding it as a galactic win.

If by "galactic win" you mean "monunmental failure", then yes, yes it was.  

I've been trying to purchase one for nearly two months, and now they're telling me that it might be several more months, if they're ever going to be available.  The reason they're low on stock is because they stopped production because they were sending out mangled up units due to a massive quality control failure.  Their CEO has his fingers in his ears shouting the equivalent of "you're holding it wrong".  Meanwhile, their biggest carrier, AT&T does not have any, has never had any, and is getting royally pissed that they're advertising a product which the manufacturer cannot supply for sale.  I'm not sure how that's considered a success by any definition.

[Limey]

Simples:

Apple Profit Rises 24% on Sales of iPhone 5

[Selig's Advocate] Why should they care that you can't get one? [\Selig's Advocate]

[HudsonHawk]

Simples:

Apple Profit Rises 24% on Sales of iPhone 5

[Selig's Advocate] Why should they care that you can't get one? [\Selig's Advocate]

Exactly.  Why should they care if their they fuck over their loyal customers.  That's always been the model for success for every business in history.

[OregonStrosFan]

Exactly.  Why should they care if their they fuck over their loyal customers.

They don't. Trust me on this. Though I'm sold on my iPhone and iPad, I will NEVER, EVER, NEVER purchase any of my iShit toys from Apple-proper (Apple Store, Apple online, etc) again.  Not that they were assholes (they were, but being mere assholes isn't enough to piss me off that bad), but they went about f-ing me over so fully and methodically over (basically) nothing that I won't have anything to do with them again. Ever. Period.

Right now (and for the foreseeable future) I go to a smaller independent retailer that actually wants my business (treat me with courtesy and professionalism...)... craziness, I know...

[HudsonHawk]

They don't. Trust me on this. Though I'm sold on my iPhone and iPad, I will NEVER, EVER, NEVER purchase any of my iShit toys from Apple-proper (Apple Store, Apple online, etc) again.  Not that they were assholes (they were, but being mere assholes isn't enough to piss me off that bad), but they went about f-ing me over so fully and methodically over (basically) nothing that I won't have anything to do with them again. Ever. Period.

Right now (and for the foreseeable future) I go to a smaller independent retailer that actually wants my business (treat me with courtesy and professionalism...)... craziness, I know...

The Apple store folks have been fine to me, other than just not having the product they advertise.  They've usually been very helpful in the past as well.  My gripe with them has been the clusterfuck that has been the manufacture and distribution of the iPhone 5. 

I'm now on a quest, and you all know what that means.

[Waldo]

You know, you could just dump AT&T and get an iPhone 5 on Sprint or Verizon.

5... 4... 3...

[HudsonHawk]

You know, you could just dump AT&T and get an iPhone 5 on Sprint or Verizon.

5... 4... 3...

The problem isn't AT&T, it's Apple. There are no iPhone 5 available.  And I wouldn't drop the greatest wireless company in history over such a trivial pursuit.

[Waldo]

greatest wireless company in history

And he takes the bait.

[HudsonHawk]

And he takes the bait.

I knew what you were fishing for. 

Seriously though...it's not a matter of the carrier...there are no iPhone 5 available.  Period.

[drew corleone]

Except that's not true. Understanding that you go to be early and can't do the 10pm purchase, there are thousands of people getting phones every day by doing this. When I picked mine up last week the woman that activated it told me they get at least a hundred each day at the Austin Domain store and I saw phones available at every Houston-area Apple Store when I was trying this method. It may not be convenient for you but it does not mean that are not available, "period."

[HudsonHawk]

Except that's not true. Understanding that you go to be early and can't do the 10pm purchase, there are thousands of people getting phones every day by doing this. When I picked mine up last week the woman that activated it told me they get at least a hundred each day at the Austin Domain store and I saw phones available at every Houston-area Apple Store when I was trying this method. It may not be convenient for you but it does not mean that are not available, "period."

I can only go by what I experience.  I've yet to meet anyone who's been able to get an iPhone 5 outside of pre-ordering.  As far as I'm concerned, they're like your girlfriend who lives in Canada.

And I've been trying the 10pm purchase.  Nothing.  Anywhere in the US of A.  But I'm on a quest...dammit.

[BizidyDizidy]

I can only go by what I experience.  I've yet to meet anyone who's been able to get an iPhone 5 outside of pre-ordering.  As far as I'm concerned, they're like your girlfriend who lives in Canada.

And I've been trying the 10pm purchase.  Nothing.  Anywhere in the US of A.  But I'm on a quest...dammit.

We ordered one a week or so after launch, would've showed up yesterday if not for the storm.

[HudsonHawk]

We ordered one a week or so after launch, would've showed up yesterday if not for the storm.

I was not eligible for an upgrade until Oct 1st, so I couldn't pre-order.  I could order now, but it doesn't square with my Quixotic venture.

[Andyzipp]

I was not eligible for an upgrade until Oct 1st, so I couldn't pre-order.  I could order now, but it doesn't square with my Quixotic venture.

I was offered an AT&T iPhone 5 (64gb) at the Apple store this past Saturday morning.  I'm not near my upgrade window, so I declined, but the workers were selling them while I was standing in the store.

[drew corleone]

I know it's frustrating, but keep trying. It finally worked for me.

[EasTexAstro]

I was offered an AT&T iPhone 5 (64gb) at the Apple store this past Saturday morning.  I'm not near my upgrade window, so I declined, but the workers were selling them while I was standing in the store.

Yes, but you look like a nerd. They have a special inventory for "those" people.

HH...well, they just don't think he would know how to truly appreciate the awesomeness of the iPhone.

[HudsonHawk]

I was offered an AT&T iPhone 5 (64gb) at the Apple store this past Saturday morning.  I'm not near my upgrade window, so I declined, but the workers were selling them while I was standing in the store.

So that's a close encounter of the second kind?

[Andyzipp]

Yes, but you look like a nerd. They have a special inventory for "those" people.

HH...well, they just don't think he would know how to truly appreciate the awesomeness of the iPhone.

It could be that they were wearing hats indoors and he tuned them out.

[MusicMan]

I know it's frustrating, but keep trying. It finally worked for me.

(Also said to every high school boy ever.)

[Limey]

In other news, don't bother trying to get a new iPad or iPad Mini, either.

[OregonStrosFan]

In other news, don't bother trying to get a new iPad or iPad Mini, either.

I had no clue that the fourth generation iPad was here (and not just another name for the iPad mini).  Fortunately, I'm all iPaid out so the latest product shortage ain't gonna sting in the least...

[Limey]

I had no clue that the fourth generation iPad was here (and not just another name for the iPad mini).  Fortunately, I'm all iPaid out so the latest product shortage ain't gonna sting in the least...

4th gen supposedly x2 as the 3rd gen.  I still have the 1st gen, and have no plans to upgrade it.

[hostros7]

What does "x2" mean in this instance?

[Ron Brand]

What does "x2" mean in this instance?

2wice da funk.

[Limey]

What does "x2" mean in this instance?

Sorry.  x2 CPU performance.

[Waldo]

So the 3rd gen iPad lasted less than eight months.  WTF?

[Limey]

So the 3rd gen iPad lasted less than eight months.  WTF?

CPU bump to speed up the graphics.

One of the things discussed about the management reshuffle at Apple is that they're going to get away from calendar-driven updates, and go back to updating stuff when it's ready.

[HudsonHawk]

So the 3rd gen iPad lasted less than eight months.  WTF?

The new iPad isn't really "new" other than it now has a faster processor.  Nothing unusual about that.

[Ron Brand]

And the new Lightning connector.

[Limey]

And the new Lightning connector.

Adapter sold separately.

[OregonStrosFan]

Adapter sold separately.

If you can find one (which you cannot). [Or for that matter, if you can find a lightning cord at all (which you can, but you'll have to do a lot of searching for and it isn't going to be cheap)]. And if it actually works (reviews are mixed).

FWIW, though its been annoying converting my minimal collection of 30-pin adapters to the new lightning adapter, the change was long overdue and once the secondary market starts selling less expensive plugs/adapters, probably won't be such a huge deal (or at least won't be for me, which is of course the only thing that is important... screw all y'all...).

[HudsonHawk]

SCORED!!!!

On a whim, stopped by the Best Buy in Conroe, and whaddyaknow, they had a handful of iPhone 5s.  Got the 32GB. 

On a side note, while the young lady was doing the upgrade thing, she asked how long ago I ordered.  I said I didn't, that I just stopped by and they happened to have one.  She look incredulous and said "No way.  We've got people who ordered in September and they still haven't come in."

But I got mine.  So now I can finally get to bed at a decent hour!

[homer]

SCORED!!!!

On a whim, stopped by the Best Buy in Conroe, and whaddyaknow, they had a handful of iPhone 5s.  Got the 32GB. 

On a side note, while the young lady was doing the upgrade thing, she asked how long ago I ordered.  I said I didn't, that I just stopped by and they happened to have one.  She look incredulous and said "No way.  We've got people who ordered in September and they still haven't come in."

But I got mine.  So now I can finally get to bed at a decent hour!

White or black?

[HudsonHawk]

White or black?

Gray. Or "slate" I think they call it. They had some white ones though.

[das]

SCORED!!!!

On a whim, stopped by the Best Buy in Conroe, and whaddyaknow, they had a handful of iPhone 5s.  Got the 32GB. 

On a side note, while the young lady was doing the upgrade thing, she asked how long ago I ordered.  I said I didn't, that I just stopped by and they happened to have one.  She look incredulous and said "No way.  We've got people who ordered in September and they still haven't come in."

But I got mine.  So now I can finally get to bed at a decent hour!

Mind me asking how much?

[HudsonHawk]

Mind me asking how much?

I think the 32GB was $299. The 16GB is $199.  AT&T also gives me $150 for my old iPhone 4. So upgrading was actually like $150.