Ready to unbox - New Apple iPhone 3G with GPS navigation

The electronics blogosphere has been abuzz with anticipation for the latest Apple iPhone, which promises evolutionary improvements such as access to the quicker 3G cellular network, expansive application library, enterprise-level system compatibility, and built-in GPS for navigation and location-based services. With this move, Apple is playing catch up with competing cell phone models, including those marketed by AT&T, the iPhone carrier. The iPhone 3G also boasts a lower purchase price, though it is offset by higher monthly fees.

Consumer Reports had staffers in line before dawn today to be among the very first customers to purchase a phone in the United States. We now own several phones, but considerable time is required to set up the phones for business accounts. Personal use setup time was about 15 minutes, according to our mystery shoppers.

Once we get the units in house, we will quickly cut through the hype and report on how the iPhone 3G performs. Specifically, the CR Electronics team will dig into the telephony, multimedia, and e-mail capabilities, while the Cars team will delve into the navigation abilities.

Both groups will be blogging findings from their test programs.

As we posted in June:
"Rarely does a new device emerge to threaten the establishment, but the Apple iPhone 3G may prove to be an interesting alternative to today’s portable navigation devices (PND) for wired travelers."

To be sure, it is interesting, though as more information has become available since that post and we have gained more hands-on experience with its competitors, the iPhone 3G may not prove to be a navigation game changer, or even a serious alternative.

We will soon cut through the hype and evaluate the iPhone 3G’s navigation ability relative to key smart phone competitors, as well as dedicated personal navigation devices, in the days ahead. Keep an eye on our blog for the latest findings.

For more iPhone 3G information, read:
Apple's iPhone 3G: How it's shaping up
Apple puts new iPhone 3G on the GPS navigation map

—Jeff Bartlett

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.