The verdict is in. We've put the new iPhone 4 through its paces, and have the results on its improvements, and whether or not it really lives up to all of the hype. Let's begin.

First Impressions:

When you first pick up the new iPhone 4, you immediately notice how thin the device is, as well as how sturdy it feels. This new phone is constructed of quality materials, and it shows. The iPhone 4 feels slightly heavier than the 3GS, most likely due to its larger battery, but not enough to make a difference as far as comfort goes when carrying it around. It's easy to hold, and slips comfortably into a pocket.

Behind the Screen:

As soon as you unlock the iPhone 4, and start swiping from screen to screen, you notice how smooth navigating the device is. Apple's A4 processor makes the phone's new iOS 4 operating system scream, while the new Retina display serves up crystal clear images, text, and video. Apps run smoothly as well, with no signs of lag at all. As with previous iPhone models, hardware and software seem to be working together, instead of fighting each other for control. There is definitely a performance boost to be found here, and it is immediately noticeable.

Among the other hardware improvements are the iPhone 4's two new cameras. Cameras play a big part in this new phone, which has one familiarly placed on the back of the device, as well as a new additional camera placed on its front. The rear camera is now 5 megapixels, and sports a LED flash for taking pictures in low light conditions, while the front camera is not as powerful, and better suited for taking a picture of yourself.

Both cameras handle their jobs well. The rear camera can also record 720p HD video, which can be edited nicely directly on the phone if you opt for Apple's $4.99 iMovie app, which runs on iPhone 4 devices. Still pictures and HD video both look great. You'll probably find yourself opting to lighten the load you carry, and leave your other pocket cameras at home after trying out these new features.

FaceTime:

Perhaps the most talked about new feature of the iPhone 4 is the addition of Apple's new FaceTime video calling. FaceTime uses the phone's front and rear cameras to allow iPhone 4 users to make video calls to each other via Wi-Fi. The new feature requires no additional setup on the user's part, and is just as easy to use as making a voice call. Call another iPhone 4 user as you normally would, select FaceTime, and when they answer and accept the video call, you and the person on the other end will be able to see each other through the front cameras on your phones. Users can also switch to the rear camera during a FaceTime call, to show the other person what they are seeing.

Call quality was very good during FaceTime, and the feature works as it has been shown in Apple's advertising campaigns, and in other promotional videos. When both users have good Wi-Fi connections, the video is smooth, and the experience is quite enjoyable. Lining yourself up with the camera works best if you hold the phone slightly away from yourself. Holding the phone horizontally also made it easier to keep in frame, while at the same time making it easier for the person on the other end to see you. Whether or not the call would remain as smooth over 3G is another matter. For now, though, FaceTime requires Wi-Fi, but Apple has stated that it is working with its carriers, so 3G video calling may come sooner than expected.

The Verdict:

Of course, there have been concerns by some that the placement of the phone's antennas as part of the metal frame that runs around the outside of the phone is causing loss of signal strength and dropped calls if the phone is held in a certain way. Others have reported no problems at all. We didn't have trouble with signal strength or call quality, but there are enough people reporting problems that there does seem to be an issue, at least on some phones. Apple has stated that the problem of fading bars is due to a software problem that it will be fixing, and that if the black line in the phone's lower left corner is covered completely by the skin of your bare hand, some loss of signal strength can be expected. It all depends on how you are used to holding your phone, and which hand you hold it with. People who hold their phone in their left hand are more likely to see the issues described, while people who hold their phone in their right hand are not likely to have any problems at all. Using a case, or the protective rubber bumpers Apple sells, solves the problem immediately, as you are no longer making direct contact with that area of the phone with your bare skin. Apple plans to release the software fix within the next few weeks, and manufacturers are already rushing to get their latest cases to store shelves everywhere. Combined, anyone who is having a problem with signal loss should find the fixes will have them enjoying their new iPhone 4 again in no time.

Overall, the iPhone 4 is a worthy upgrade to previous models, and is still the smartphone to beat in a market where competition is getting very heated. Though other phones, most notably the latest Android devices to come out, are significant iPhone alternatives, as an overall package the iPhone is still king. Its features, ease of use, numerous available apps, integration with iTunes, and more keep Apple's latest device at the head of the pack. For the computer savvy, as well as for those who are not, the iPhone 4 is an excellent choice.

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