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Apple iPhone 5
92
Engadget Review
Apple's iPhone 5 is an amazing performer with great battery life wrapped in a delicious shell. It's a top-shelf device.
Tim StevensSeptember 18, 2012
Pros
- Beautiful, sophisticated design
- Thinner, lighter
- Larger screen, still easy to hold
- Great performance
- Impressive battery life
Cons
- Lightning connector incompatibilities
View All Critic & User Reviews
Apple iPhone 5
- Critic Reviews (44)
- User Reviews (270)
- 89AVERAGE CRITIC SCORE44 ReviewsLaptop Magazine80Apple iPhone 5 (T-Mobile) ReviewT-Mobile's iPhone 5 may be late to the game, but it offers fast LTE speeds, HD Voice calling and value-priced, contract-free plans.Wired90High FiveFor all the talk of the new iPhone being boring, iterative, or lacking that trademark Apple flavor of cutting-edge innovation, it is undoubtedly the best handset you can buy.Macworld90Review: iPhone 5 takes next step in smartphone evoOnce again, Apple hasn’t reinvented the iPhone. All it’s done is make the best smartphone around even better.Ars Technica80iPhone 5: a little bit taller, a little bit ballerExisting iPhone owners with anything older than a 4S should be extremely happy with the iPhone 5. But for those who own a 4S already, the differences may not be worth the upgrade right now.Computerworld80Review: Apple's iPhone 5 destined for successWith iPhone 5, Apple once again delivers.Laptop Magazine80Apple iPhone 5 (Verizon Wireless) ReviewThe iPhone 5 improves upon a great smartphone in every way while offering a shockingly thin and light design.PC Mag90Apple iPhone 5 (Verizon Wireless)With a sublime, but familiar design inside and out, a speedy new processor, fast LTE, and the best apps in the business, the new iPhone is like the old iPhone, just much better.MacworldNot RatedHands on with the iPhone 5Overall, while it feels like a very significant and substantial upgrade, it also still feels like the same old iPhone. For many of us, that’s a good thing.TechCrunch100With iPhone 5, Apple Has Chiseled The Smartphone TOverall, the iPhone 5 is an absolute homerun. Apple has taken what I consider to be the best smartphone and perfected it in nearly every way.CNET80iPhone 5 review: Finally, the iPhone we've alwaysThe 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.The Wall Street Journal90The iPhone Takes to the Big ScreenApple has taken an already great product and made it better, overall. Consumers who prefer huge screens or certain marginal features have plenty of other choices, but the iPhone 5 is an excellent choice.New York Times80IPhone 5 Scores Well, With a QuibbleIf you have an iPhone 4S, getting an iPhone 5 would mean breaking your two-year carrier contract and paying a painful penalty; maybe not worth it for the 5’s collection of nips and tucks. But if you’ve had the discipline to sit out a couple of iPhone generations — wow, are you in for a treat.Engadget90iPhone 5 reviewFor the iOS faithful this is a no-brainer upgrade. This is without a doubt the best iPhone yet. This is a hallmark of design. This is the one you've been waiting for.PC MagNot RatedHands On: Apple iPhone 5 (With Video)The iPhone 5 doesn't need to be the highest spec phone in the world. It needs to be a well-built, competitive phone that does everything you expect from an iPhone, better. It looks like Apple passed that test easily.Laptop MagazineNot RatedApple iPhone 5 Hands-on: Crazy Light, Dazzling ScrOverall, ... the iPhone 5 looks like a winner. It crams a lot of powerful new features into a first-class design that people will be clamoring for.AnandTechNot RatediPhone 5 Hands On Pics and Video - Updated: With IOverall after our short time with the iPhone 5 I'm very positive about the end result. The combination of new silicon and LTE alongside display and camera improvements craft a very positive outlook for Apple's iPhone line.WiredNot RatediPhone 5 Hands-On: Faster, Lighter, LongerOur overall impression of the iPhone 5: It’s another iPhone. Just longer. And better. Although there may not be one individual feature about it that makes you scream, “I’ve got to have it now!”, all the improvements together make it a gotta-have handset.EngadgetNot RatediPhone 5 hands-on!The metal feels downright elegant to the touch, and the same line we've said time and time again applies here: there's no doubting the premium fit and finish when you clutch one of these things ... use it for half an hour and you'll have a hard time going back to a slower chip.MacLife90iPhone 5 ReviewIt’s sure to remain king of the smartphone mountain for another year until Apple figures out how to improve it some more--and I can’t wait to see how.CNET AU80Apple iPhone 5The changes to iPhone 5 and iOS will be appreciated by current users of the iPhone, but Apple's rigid design principles may have many looking to the alternatives.Chicago Sun-Times80iPhone 5 offers new innovations in phone photos, bUnlike the Android devices I’ve tried, the iPhone 5 is a “real” camera, all the time...not just in good lighting and fair weather.Cult of Mac100The iPhone 5: A Smartphone Of Extraordinary GraceEarlier in this review, I referred to the iPhone 5 as a creature of grace. I want to say it again, because it’s a pretty thing to say that matches in its simplicity and beauty the object which it is describing. The iPhone 5 is a creature of grace. It’s exquisite.Eurogamer90iPhone 5 ReviewIn a world where the typical mobile phone contract is now 24 months, perhaps the real comparison should be with the iPhone 4 and the older 3GS along with its contemporaries - that's where we truly see a night-and-day difference in performance, and where an upgrade makes the most sense.ABC News90iPhone 5 Review: The Best Smartphone for the MasseThe iPhone 5 is hands-down the best smartphone for the masses. While there are many other phones out there with similar spec sheets, this is the one all those people were waiting for.The Guardian100iPhone 5: reviewAs for the iPhone 5, it's a lovely piece of equipment. Boring? Lacking wow? With its market value now crossing $700bn and iPhone 5 pre-orders through the roof, Apple might disagree.Pocket-Lint90Apple iPhone 5 reviewThe iPhone 5 is a phone that makes you feel safe. A phone that you know exactly how to use as soon as you take it out of the box and that is perfect for a wide range of people.Time90Apple iPhone 5 Review: It’s All About RefinementThe bottom line, in case it isn’t clear already: The iPhone 5 is one terrific smartphone. Ignore the naysayers — even without any awesome technological breakthroughs, it’s a sizable improvement on the iPhone 4S. For many upgrades, LTE alone will be worth the price of admission.SlashGear90iPhone 5 reviewRight now, the iPhone 5 has the best balance of everyday usability and performance, without the distraction of functionality that is clever but unintuitive. It’s an area in which Apple excels, and it’s the reason the iPhone 5 is one of the best smartphones on the market today.SlashGearNot RatediPhone 5 Hands-onIn short, it’s a beautifully constructed, cohesive combination of design and materials: even if you’re not an iOS fan, you’ll have to appreciate the package Apple has put together. If, though, you are an iOS lover ... then the iPhone 5 is easily the best model yet.MashableNot RatedApple iPhone 5 First Impressions: A Remarkable AchAt first glance, I’d say Apple has achieved something remarkable: making the iPhone bigger, more powerful, and possibly even better, without changing the way it feels in your hand.Digital Versus100Apple iPhone 5 Review...the iPhone 5's primary selling points are a lighter body, quicker execution and excellent multimedia capacities. Its weaknesses? A GPS function in need of revision and average battery life that isn't quite enough for intensive use.iMore90iPhone 5 reviewRedesigned in every way but shape, compromised but true to its purpose, the iPhone 5 is once again the best iPhone Apple has ever made, and one of the best phones ever made. Period.TechRadar90iPhone 5 reviewUltimately, this is an iPhone that underwhelms in terms of specs, but packages it all together in a way that works.Gizmodo Australia60Apple iPhone 5 Review and 4G Speed Test: The BestIt really is, then, the best and the worst iPhone yet. It’s the best speed, the best performance and the best screen we’ve seen on Apple’s flagship smartphone, but simultaneously, it’s the least polished, most annoying device with the worst software I’ve seen since OS X Lion.phoneArena90Apple iPhone 5 ReviewEven though we’re still yearning for an updated platform experience with iOS, the iPhone 5 hits a grand slam homerun out of the park with its svelte design, sharp looking display, raw processing power, and detailed photo capturing quality to clear the bases entirely.IGNNot RatediPhone 5 Hands-On ImpressionsWhile the lightness of the phone may ultimately beat out even the expanded screen size as everyone's favorite new feature, I found myself continually surprised by the little changes and polished edges of the new phone.AppleInsiderNot RatedFirst look: iPhone 5 unboxing and comparison pictuThe most noticeable change to the iPhone 5 is the device's weight. Once it's picked up, the iPhone 5 is considerably lighter than the design of its predecessors, the iPhone 4S and the iPhone 4. The larger screen is also noticeable once the device is picked up and powered on.Daily Mail100iPhone 5 review: Bigger screen and thinner designThe level of care and engineering that has gone into the handset is unprecedented, and while iPhone owners are no doubt already reaching for their wallets, for anyone who was on the fence, the iPhone 5 puts clear water between Apple and its competitors.T380iPhone 5 reviewGiven that iPhone 4S users can upgrade to iOS 6 and do just about everything the iPhone 5 can do ... we reckon the smart money won’t all be going on a new iPhone this year, even if the mass market can’t get enough of it. It’s good, very good. But it’s no longer the best around.Daring Fireball90The iPhone 5The question everyone who hasn’t yet pre-ordered wants answered: Should you upgrade? My answer is simple. If you can afford it, yes.Bloomberg90IPhone Gets Bigger, Thinner, Faster: Rich JaroslovThe iPhone 5 is by no means perfect, and we’re lucky there are a lot of really good smartphones on the market. But only one great one.CBC80Review: iPhone 5 not terribly innovative, but stilThe iPhone 5 may not be terribly innovative, but it does deliver that package better than any previous Apple product, and better than just about any other smartphone.The Telegraph100iPhone 5 reviewThe iPhone 5 is a great smartphone made even better. It's fast, lightweight and backed by the largest application store for any device. It's also probably the most beautiful smartphone anyone has ever made.CNNNot RatedHands on with the new iPhone 5The phone appears to be top-notch, its new body an impressive feat of engineering. It may not be the most mind-blowing upgrade, but that doesn't diminish its level of quality.Expert Reviews100Apple iPhone 5 reviewIt's smaller, thinner and faster with a higher-resolution screen, but the new Maps app is a disappointment.BGR100iPhone 5 reviewApple’s iPhone represents more than sheet of specifications of processor speed, memory and screen inches, it represents the best of the best, refined every year, only like Apple can.IT Pro Portal90Apple iPhone 5 reviewThe iPhone 5 has weaknesses, certainly on the software front with the new Apple Maps app ... However, on the whole the handset represents an excellent upgrade, being faster, incredibly light, and very nicely built, with improvements all round – from the cameras to the EarPods.Mobile Tech Review90iPhone 5The iPhone 5 is as ever a thoroughly enjoyable and capable smartphone. It's easy and fun to use and it's secure and stable. The latest generation model clearly gives users what they wanted (look how many have sold): LTE 4G and a larger display.Mobile Syrup90iPhone 5 Review (Video)The iPhone 5 is at once a modest and significant upgrade over the 4S. Improved in almost every way, it's LTE connectivity that is the most notable addition. An obvious upgrade for users of the iPhone 3GS or 4, but less so for the still-new 4S.HotHardware90iPhone 5 Review, Apple's Best iPhone YetThe iPhone 5 is the best iPhone ever. If you're working with an earlier iPhone, and you're eligible for a contract upgrade, don't hesitate to grab an iPhone 5 if you plan to stick with Apple. The iPhone 5 is everything the iPhone 4S was, but better.Gadget ReviewNot RatedIPHONE 5 HANDS ON AND FIRST IMPRESSIONSIn speaking to people about my impressions of the iPhone 5 I have continuously made one statement: it’s not a vast departure from the iPhone 4s... to the every day man the iPhone 5 is not a leap in technology.Hardware Heaven90iPhone 5 ReviewWithout doubt the best iPhone yet. Build quality is good but on a design and functionality front sadly it doesn't strive to be all that it could and falls a little short in a few key areas when compared to other high end handsets.TrustedReviews80iPhone 5 reviewIf you are looking for something that pushes boundaries in terms of features you’ll be disappointed. No single hardware or software feature here stands out from the crowd aside from that design. But what a design.Stuff100Apple iPhone 5 ReviewIt might not floor you in pictures, but in the flesh, the iPhone 5 is a delight. And if it feels just right, it performs even better, with flawless operation and a screen that's downright stunning.The Loop100Review: iPhone 5The iPhone is everything Apple said it would be and with iOS 6 built-in, it’s clear to me that Apple has another winner on its hands. I can’t think of any good reason why anyone wouldn’t upgrade or purchase the iPhone 5.USA Today90Review: Apple iPhone 5 in front of the smartphonePeople have always had lofty expectations for the iPhone 5, especially as the competition stiffens. In delivering a fast, attractive, LTE-capable and larger-screen handset, Apple has met those expectations with a gem.
- 86AVERAGE USER SCORE270 ReviewsEngadget Reader70October 5, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 23, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 18, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80May 12, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The only reason I rated the Durability so low was because the Iphone 5 is the most fragile phone on the market.Engadget Reader100April 6, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I use this phone as my secundary phone. It is amazing, i can do anything with this phone. Bought when it came out, it is very scratched but works like on the 1st day. Apple support is greatEngadget Reader70March 19, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - Engadgetfreedonut60February 12, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A forgettable product. It isn't bad, exactly, but also doesn't do anything particularly well. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 23, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 14, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100December 22, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetDonald80December 5, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I've had my iPhone for 1 year, and I just got a Nexus 5. I am through with the tiny tiny text. Newer websites are giving up on iPhone screems (keyboard + tool bar in Yahoo mail leaves ZERO lines of text visible on the screen!) My 6.1.3 IOS phone often doesn't turn off when I hit the "off" button (software bug) and I have to hold down "off" until it threatens to shut off. My phone often gets its ringer turned off by mistake and I miss a lot of calls. Sometimes the display refuses to go off.Engadget Reader80December 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Even though I do not like iOS, I admire this phone's built, size and form factor. Unfortunately, battery life and connectivity is not very admirable for a last year's flagship phone. But overall, it's great.js87100November 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 24, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Most beautiful, powerful, handy, light, tiny, everything smartphone until iPhone 5S launch date. It has a remarkable display but it time for moving to a larger display.Engadget Reader100October 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I just love my phone, nothing more to say. Everything works perfectlyEngadget Reader100October 7, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 13, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100August 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader70August 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90August 28, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Coming from an iPhone 4, I didn't really know what to expect in terms of upgrade value with the iPhone 5. I mean, it seemed like it would be more of the same, which is great, but I didn't have that "Awesome, getting new tech" feeling that I used to get with phone upgrades. I'm glad to say that I've been proven wrong - It's a far better device than the 4. It's faster, thinner, lighter, feels better, looks better and the battery lasts longer. Great device.Engadget Reader90August 25, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80August 19, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100August 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Perfect phoneEngadget Reader60August 5, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Great Phone with great features..Engadget Reader50July 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I'm an ex-iphone user (3g, 4, 5) that woke up from the garbage that the [US] media feeds about how good the iphone is. I should have realized when apple release a phone that required a separate case just to make a phone call. I mean isn't that the first thing a smart phone is supposed to do?! And then there is the whole itunes disaster of an sync application and completely un-intuitive.I've had a HTC One X for a year now (4g lte) which has been an awesome phone. The display is very good, and the camera with rapid capture is a must have. You could not get me to go back to apple even if I got one free.Engadget Reader90July 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100July 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 19, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100July 12, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 11, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is a terrific device. Camera, screen, and form factor are all what a smartphone should be, although I wouldn't mind a slightly larger screen. Call quality and reception are as good as expected.Engadget Reader90July 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I had the 3G before so it was easy to be blown away. But still i have tried other friend's phone and i just think its a awesome phone with a beautiful design.I have no interested right now for customization and huge screen, for me it's all about the apps that I use and the great camera so this phone is perfect for me.Engadget Reader100July 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90June 16, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100June 14, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!If you're upgrading to the iPhone 5 from an older version of iPhone, I'm not sure if you'll want to wait, because the iPhone 6 might be out around September to October. Or it might not even be the iPhone 6. It might be called the iPhone Z. Whatever...But if you're upgrading to this phone, the first thing you'll notice is that it's light. And by light, I mean it doesn't weigh as much. Not that it's cheaply made. It actually a lot more well-built than previous iPhones because Apple seems to have paid special attention to making the chassis stronger. So you don't have to worry as much when you drop it (if you ever do). The design is quite sleek with the 4 inch screen. You'll find the screen (most people) to be just the right size. Not too large, and not too small. But though for some people with smaller hands, they might find the distance between the power button and the lock slide to be too far away.Overall, the 2 tone design is quite cool. You'll enjoy the newer, more crisp display. But one thing you won't like... very much... is the not so stellar battery life. It could be worse though, so it's not too big of a problem.Engadget Reader100June 10, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100June 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader40June 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A poor product that's more likely to be frustrating than useful. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100June 4, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 31, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 30, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80May 30, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 27, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Really enjoying the beauty and simplicity of the iPhone. I upgraded from an iPhone 4 and the difference in power is huge.Engadget Reader80May 20, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80May 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!One of the best for portability because its small and light. Good battery life, I got through most of my day very moderate use. Still has the most apps and accessories. Great brightness, very accurate colors (second only to HTC One). Only problem is that its only 4". Very good looking design. Screen is too small, so harder to type and use web. Very good photos and videos. Bad low light photos and very bad low light videos. Also lacks camera features, though you can download other apps. Only supports some media formats, doesn't support some popular formats such as MKV, AVI, flac. Must use iTunes which is not good at sync. Its small so very easy to hold and use, but harder to type and use web. iOS is very very simple. Siri is very fun to play with, but is inaccurate.Engadget Reader90May 15, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 15, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Like many people I have several Apple products and while I would love to have a note 2 or something similar, giving up the iPhone camera and having access to pages and numbers is big for me.Engadget Reader90May 7, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 5, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetBlackSmokeDMax80April 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80April 25, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Works greats, feels great. Unfortunately iOS hasn't really changed much over the years and is starting to seem pretty limited and bland.Engadget Reader100April 16, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!After using android since day one with The G1 and being on a ever long quest for the best android phones, I ended up finding I was searching I'm the wrong place and iPhone 5 is easily the bar device . 15 android devices later, I found that all I needed was to get iPhone and I'd be happy.Engadget Reader80April 15, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90April 15, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90April 12, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Let's get right down to it. I came full circle with the iPhone. I started out with a 3, experienced some hiccups with it, had a not-so-great customer service experience at the Apple store so I promptly returned it. In that time I dabbled with Android and Windows. Those OS were good but equally with their own issues. So, after going through three Nokia devices in four months, I figured I'd give iOS another shot with the 5. Boy, am I glad I did! This phone is slick! I never thought I'd like Apple's iOS system again but I do. I really do. Apps don't run constantly in background, there's LOTS to choose from, the camera is pretty sweet, I can watch videos whether on a website or in an app and the OS is tried-and-true with nary a hiccup. Yeah, I'm aware of the bugs when it first came out. My wife's got a 4 that just upgraded to the latest iOS when I picked up my 5. However, Apple's constantly improving this phone where as others (HTC) are just getting around to finally releasing new and improved devices. For my money, the iPhone 5 is the decided winner here.Engadget Reader90April 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90April 6, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I bought the 64GB model and it could not have been a better decision. Already I have consumed 22GB of data, and it's such a relief to know I have so much more available if I need it. Stress free data management is fantastic. Battery life is pretty good considering it's an LTE model. I personally don't use the LTE radio because the regular 4G network of AT&T in Washington is pretty darn fast. When I download updates, I just enable LTE real quick, have them blast through then turn it back off to save the battery. I will say however the GPS eats the battery up like a shark to a bleeding whale. But that is expecting with all GPS radios.Love the device, and currently have it Jailbroken at 6.1.2 to use BiteSMS and a few other tweaks/mods to make it more personal. I couldn't live without BiteSMS -- The ability to text and receive texts from a popup is essential for me.Engadget Reader60April 5, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A forgettable product. It isn't bad, exactly, but also doesn't do anything particularly well. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80April 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90April 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader40April 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A poor product that's more likely to be frustrating than useful. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100April 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 31, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader10March 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!An awful product that should be avoided. You'll be sorry. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80March 24, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!bad wifi, super slow for downloading.Engadget Reader90March 24, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Used it since December 2012, switch from Android, definitely no looking back of it.Engadget Reader90March 23, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader70March 23, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 23, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100March 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetAdityan90March 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!It is clearly the best phone in the market. The OS's ease of use in unbeatable. iTunes, iCloud is so seamlessly integrated with the OS that no OS comes close to it, even though Android and Windows do have some kind of integrated solutions.Engadget Reader90March 19, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 16, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100March 16, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader70March 13, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetSigil70March 12, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I wouldn't buy it again.Engadget Reader90March 10, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100March 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader30March 7, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A poor product that's more likely to be frustrating than useful. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90March 7, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is great, if you didn't have an iPhone 4(S) before this one.. Im a huge Apple fan, but for some reason im looking for other devices now.. Apple should be more innovative, as they were a couple of years ago, do not bring 4 the same iPads on the market, create something new..Engadget Reader100March 6, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80March 6, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100March 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100March 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!great!Engadget Reader90March 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A lot of improvements over the previous iPhone models: Retina display, faster CPU and network. Improved design and functionality overall makes it the best iPhone ever, which is how it is suppose to be. Battery life is better, but still could be improved. Everything else was improved.Engadget Reader90March 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80February 27, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!i love how much thinner this phone is than the iphone 4. the plug option is also smarter and sleeker.Engadget Reader90February 24, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Apple did a great job with this phone, but they need to add more of todays tech inside of it. Nfc, DNLA....Etc. I was very impressed with how snappy it was, but at the same time I am sick of the aged OS.Engadget Reader90February 23, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This is the best phone on the market in terms of Hardware.Engadget Reader90February 22, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!You can't really go wrong w/ the iPhone 5. It's a wonderful device and if you are a legal procurer of content, Apple's ecosystem rewards you w/ an excellent experience. If you are the type that downloads movies, TV shows, etc. for free via not so legal channels, then you will likely have to do additional work to enjoy that media on a device like an iPhone. Media support is limited to what iTunes support. So no Divx unfortunately.If you like to tinker, the jailbreak community is thriving as always and allows you the ability to customize the iPhone just as much as an Android device. If not, then the inherit simplicity of the stock iPhone experience will please you w/ a no-nonsense experience. The other upside is that purchases in iTunes/App Store are all related your account. So you buy apps/music once and they can be used/downloaded on ALL your iOS devices (iPads, iPod Touch, etc.) The biggest downside to Apple, is price. It's not cheap, and impossible to upgrade. You invest in a 16GB iPhone, well, sorry you're stuck. You need to manage your space carefully. Overall though, you are likely to enjoy the experience. If you do not, then I'd recommend going w/ a Google Nexus phone. Don't fall for the Samsung Galaxy, HTC Evo, etc., glowing reviews. The crushing reality about those other phones hits you a year later when updates don't come out and they just want you to purchase a new phone for the new OS update.Engadget Reader100February 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader40February 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!çš„å¡ç©ºé—´å‘å¡æœºEngadget Reader100February 16, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 14, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I can not get enough of this phone. I've had it (white, 32GB) for months now and every time I pick it up I grow more attached to it and it's design. The iPhone 4 and 4S that I had previously were all great phones and I didn't think iPhone 5 would be such an improvement, but it is. The taller screen, the slimmer design and lighter weight all add up to a device that is a joy to use. Of course, what adds to the satisfaction of using this phone is all the great third party apps available for it.Engadget Reader70February 14, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100February 13, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I don't have many gripes about this phone at all. The fact that the back is scratch-able is worrying, but not a huge deal. It's due to them moving to aluminum instead of steel as a metal, which also makes it so light (big pro for me).It's so easy to use, everything works the way it should without having to install a bunch of 3rd party apps.It's a shame it can't read mkv's or avi's etc but certain apps can help alleviate that limitation.Engadget Reader90February 9, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I held off buying the iPhone 5 as there wasn't any truly compelling reason to upgrade from the 4S except for LTE and as it wasn't compatible with bands in the United Arab Emirates (where I live) there wasn't much point.This changed a couple of weeks ago with the update to iOS (6.1) and the combination of the incremental hardware updates, the biggest and best app catalog and native iOS features like FaceTime and iMessage became impossible to resist.While I share some of the emerging criticism that iOS is falling behind other mobile operating systems (primarily Android and in some areas Windows Phone 8) in terms of innovation Apple has presumably made this choice in the name of simplicity over the complexity that extended functionality brings. The other reason is Apple's control-freakery with respect to core apps and background running of third party apps.From my point of view Apple need make only one change to the way iOS works to address this issue and that is allowing users to delegate app handlers of their choice, similar to the way Android does, selecting which apps handle core functions thereby replacing Apple's core apps with the likes of Camera+ (Camera), Fantastical (Calendar), Spotify (Music), Gmail (Mail), Chrome (Safari), etc.While this is unlikely to happen any time soon it would go a long way to allaying the critics.That being said the extensiblity offered by the vastness of the app catalog and the quality of these apps still makes iOS the platform to beat. And with the size of the installed user base being the size it is (and still growing fast) that means tons of people are plugged into these apps and more especially the core services like FaceTime and iMessage.Everything else about the device remains a near perfect balance of form and functionality: ergonomics, industrial design, usability, etc.The only glaring downside for me (other than the point about app handling raised above) remains the native media support for file formats like MKV and the inability to install apps like VLC to run them (at least without jail-breaking).But then that's what the Nexus 7 is for...Engadget Reader90February 8, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 7, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is an improvement over the 4S but its basically in hardware. The software is the same. if you care about design this is the phone to get. Apple engineering at it's best.Engadget Reader100February 3, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This device is so good it undoubtedly deserves a long and detailed review regarding every feature. However, I don't want to write a lengthy and boring review for such an incredible product. I will write my thoughts on it instead. iPhone 5 is not innovative. There is no particular feature in iPhone 5 that other competing smartphones do not offer. Actually, since iPhone 5 is essentially my first and only smartphone, I cannot judge it in relative to its competitors. However, I am also fully aware that no other smartphone offers any feature that is significant enough for any iPhone 5 user to switch. Innovations aside, I can confidently say that iPhone 5 is the most technologically advanced smartphone on the market right now. I am sure I do not need to explain in detail that a quad-core chip is not necessarily more advanced than a dual-core chip. There is simply no other smartphone that is as compact, portable yet powerful and beautiful as iPhone 5. The device continues to amaze me in its power(iOS 6 is extremely fluid, apps launch in a blink of an eye and gaming is incredibly smooth) and capabilities( so many awesome apps out of 800,000) despite its super thin and light design. So, at the end of the day, how does having the most technologically advanced smartphone matter? It matters a lot: it means that you own a smartphone that is super responsive in everything you do. It means you own a smartphone that lets you do limitless tasks and improve your daily lives with thousands of high-quality native apps. It means you own a smartphone with the industry's best display that presents your content in life-like colours and sharpness, even in outdoors. It means you have a smartphone with a top-notch camera that takes photos and videos that are far better than what an average consumer might even need. Most importantly, it means that you own a smartphone that has all these features and much more in an extremely thin and lightweight package that you can barely feel it in your pocket, and still easily lasts for an entire day on a single full charge. And even more, iPhone 5 is so beautiful and well-built that you can feel the quality and care that went into making this device as you use it. The words alone can't justify the design of iPhone 5. To sum it up, I really want to applaud Apple for their work on iPhone 5. Despite all the criticism, they have done everything they can do improve the iPhone and have outdone themselves. Innovative or not, revolutionary or not, I can confidently say that iPhone 5 is one terrific smartphone. (really, really terrific) The smartphone that I will love using for years and years to come. The smartphone that I will never forget. Once again, iPhone 5 is "the" smartphone.Engadget Reader90January 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 27, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader10January 27, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!the camera is awfullll.......there is a purple flash in it...............the battery life is worst.......................Engadget Reader90January 26, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80January 24, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 23, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is a typical Apple product which is pleasing on the eye, fits well in your hand and is easy to setup and use. I upgraded from a BlackBerry Torch and in all honesty is like night and day in usage. I expected the battery life to be poor due to the larger screen and with the exception of the multiple email account issue it is a pleasure to use.Engadget Reader80January 20, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 20, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Compared to my previous iPhone 4, I am overall very happy with all aspects of the upgrade to the iPhone 5. In particular, I love the improvements to the camera and processor.Engadget Reader100January 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80January 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Pretty good. The change to the new charging cable was a much bigger pain than i imagined.Engadget Reader100January 12, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100January 11, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader70January 11, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!FUCK YALL BITCHES I HAVE RATTOOTHEngadget Reader70January 4, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!siri was not as helpful as i had hopedEngadget Reader100January 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80December 27, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 20, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I think it took a great leap forward since iPhone 4, worth every penny. Only exception is too easy to get scratch!Engadget Reader100December 20, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I've owned every version of the iPhone and this is definitely the best I've ever had.Engadget Reader80December 16, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 13, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 11, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 6, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!excellent mobile, quality and software, only need more battery life and the black color in iphone 5 is very delicate.Engadget Reader90December 6, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Definitely a top notch progression of the iPhone iteration. The design is a beautiful piece of engineering. In this day and age of plastic, or colored gimmicky phones, this one is for the adults. If you wanna get things done this is the phone for you. You can load your iPhone with more apps than you can shake a stick at. The UI on well designed iPhone apps are better than anything I've seen on other platforms. Hell, Google+ looks better on the iPhone than it does on an Android. Sometimes the apps are better than Apple native apps (such as Fantastical). Great iPhone apps give you more control over your phone, increase its functionality, usability and productivity. A phone is nothing if it does have great apps (that look good!). If you use your phone for more than dialing and taking pictures, if you need a phone to be your PDA, assistant, GPS, and mini computer, you've come to the right place. My life is ordered by my phone, it is never far away and with all the iPhone 5 can do for you I'm guessing it will always be within arms reach.Engadget Reader90December 5, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 2, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I Have owned all iPhones except 4S, and I have to say, this iPhone is the best I've ever have. I wasn't happy about all glass form factor of iP4,4S, these also felt somewhat heavy, but this is not the case there, so thin, so light, yet so durable! If you are Apple fan, or use more Apple products I would DEFINITELY recommend, if you use other non apple gadgets, then its on your consideration. To be honest, iP5 is great as far as Hardware is concerned, but actual iOS6 is not as great as it should be.Engadget Reader100December 1, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone just got even better. I was actually quite happy with my iPhone 4, but my contract allowed for a discounted upgrade, so I went in for the iPhone 5. I really only cared about getting a lighter and faster iPhone. But now I love the extra screen real estate and the super-fast camera launch and great HD video. There are a bunch of other improvements that I am enjoying, but you can read about those in plenty of other places. This is the best mobile phone on the market, and I don't have anything more to say. You just can't beat the iPhone experience right now.Engadget Reader90November 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100November 27, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Amazing phone, but...Honestly, I came into this with pretty low exceptions after all the leaks and rumors. But still I decided to give the iPhone 5 a shot and I couldn't be more satisfied.First off this thing is gorgeous! The build quality and weight here are unreal. Sure the screen isn't as large as the Galaxy S3 for instance. But it's a joy to look at and a much needed update from apple.The Beauty is also a Beast! The iPhone 5 blazing fast and never hick-ups! With LTE, web pages load with blink of an eye. Apps and everyday tasks seem to run and open a lot quicker than my previous iPhones. And based off benchmarks test ran on this bad boy from other tech sites, the iPhone 5 is a marvel in the smartphone world.Well here come the "But"... While the iPhone 5 is great and all, IOS is getting a little stale and boring for me, though it does get the job done. And Apple Maps are a little underwhelming, but it's getting better and turn by turn works very well. But really these things don't put a dent in the overall quality and experience with the phone.I highly recommend this phone!Engadget Reader100November 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100November 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 20, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Great phone that is fast, has a great app ecosystem and is easy to use.Engadget Reader80November 19, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 19, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 18, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!If I could, I would give the iPhone 5 a 7.5 which is lower than the suggested average. My overall score reflects the following negatives that are either not present or not prominent enough in gdgt's "canned" review categories:SECURITY - - Apple needs to improve the security of the entire platform. Apple needs to adopt something like the Google Authenticator to protect Apple IDs and iCloud accounts, and they needed to do this a year ago.VALUE - - While the iPhone 5 is a worthy upgrade for anyone with an iPhone 4 (or older), the pricing of with the new Lightning-to-USB cable is outrageous. While it is rarely possible to claim that Apple provides great bang-for-the-buck, they have reached a new low with this cable's pricing; and it borders on the sleazy.ORGANIZATION - - Apple needs to do a better job of managing the App Store. Tagging needs to be more granular, and there need to be tags for common uses cases (i.e. word processing, text editor, etc.). Apple also needs to do more to stop vendors from gaming the review system. Apple needs to add categories like most used (they certainly have the data to know this) and most downloaded (not just the currently hot). To kick start the moribund in-house development team, Apple might consider providing an API so some real innovation is possible. It does little good to have the biggest app store if the inventory is poorly organized!Engadget Reader100November 17, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100November 17, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100November 17, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 16, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The device itself is a terrific refinement of what Jonathan Ive and his team created 5 years ago. The iPhone has never been better. The added screen size is a nice perk that came with needing to increase the physical size of the device to accommodate the larger batter required to power an LTE 4G phone. There are some points where I have to stretch my thumb or reposition the phone compared to how I used to hold an iPhone 4/4S. iOS 6 has some welcome additions, such as Do Not Disturb settings to silence interruptions during times you wish to not be disrupted, but the smarts to break through that wall when there's two sequential emergency calls from a favorite contact. That being said, the Settings app controls for that requirement are getting confusing. The iPhone system is more user-friendly than most of the competition, but I don't see how my father, who is not tech savvy, would really find things that he needs to know to set up his device or choose accessibility settings that benefit him.When judging the device itself, the hardware is fantastic and thanks to Apple's brand cache, it will have a huge market of accessories that allow you to customize it for your needs with cases, bluetooth tools, etc.iOS has room for improvement and other companies are iterating on their mobile software more ambitiously and effectively than Apple has. Apple's business needs may be getting in the way of the usability of their software.Engadget Reader80November 14, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Absolutely love my iPhone. The new, larger display is really quite impressive. There's no switching now that I'm used to this retina display.Engadget Reader90November 12, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This phone is just a little bit better than the 4s in about ten different ways. This improvement certainly feels a lot more significant than the sum of its parts. LTE, manageable screen width with extra pixels and a smoking processor make this a keeper for me.Engadget Reader100November 10, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 7, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Overall, I think this is the best iPhone yet, in terms of performance and features. Much to media criticism, I really like the map app. I live in Toronto Canada and have never gotten lost. I love how it provides voice direction and prepares you for a turn well in advance of it happening. The one thing (and this is with all smart phone maps) that doesn't work for me is that is requires data...becomes very costly when travelling in the States with a Rogers data plan.There are a couple other drawbacks to this phone:Battery Life - not great as I'm charging this thing twice a dayLength - everyone seems to want the bigger smart phone for increased display size. I'm the opposite. When it's in my front pocket and I bend over to tie my shoe...ughhh, right into the pelvis.Great phone and I love the LTE speed! Just make sure you carry your power cord, as it is hard on the juice.Engadget Reader10November 7, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Its the same thing , I am on sprint so no LTE, there is no innovation here it is horrible , I hate this phone wife gave it to me , after 2 weeks i had enough , it scuffs so easily it is truly a horrible device...Engadget Reader90November 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is one of those devices that you just look at and admire. The amount of craftsmanship that went into the design and production is clearly unmatched. It's the clean lines, mirrored finish bezels, and aluminum back that make you want to show this device off to others. The increased screen size is welcomed to this device, while not following the trend of mid to high range 4 inch screens. I admit, I was one of those consumers that wanted a large screen that competitors were producing. It seemed as though you had all this screen real-estate to do your everyday functions that a smartphone is designed to do. Although the increased screen size that these phones had were so big that it made everyday functions a bit more irritating. The more I used my friends phones the more I could see that after weeks of having to use two hands or altering the way I hold the device would be a quirky irritant more than a great user experience. I guess we don't really realize how convenient it is to have a phone that we can manage with one hand yet still having a screen size that assists us with more usability. The speed of the iPhone 5 is welcomed with open arms. With this phone utilizing LTE, we finally get speeds over the cellular network that are comparable to WiFi. Internal computing speeds have also increased making this phone a joy to use. I came from the iPhone 4 so this was a major jump in speed. If you have an iPhone 4S then the back facing camera is pretty much the same, although the front facing camera has been improved. It's a noticeable difference and pictures come out clearer than previous front facing cameras. The ecosystem that the iPhone 5 lives in is unmatched. The number of quality apps that are available should give you a sense of relief. If there is ever a time when you need an app just go to the app store and I'm sure you'll find exactly what you're looking for.Engadget Reader100November 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is an amazing update to the previous iPhones, including the iPhone 4S. The first thing you notice is how incredibly light and thin it feels but still feels solid and like an incredibly premium device. It has a slightly larger 4 inch screen than the previous iPhones. But for me here are the things that make it a big reason to upgrade from the iPhone 4S: 1) It is the first iPhone with LTE cell data service. This means I am now getting blazing fast download and upload data speeds here in NYC. At work, which has poor cell data reception in the past, I am getting speeds of 8 or 9 mbs on ATT where before I was getting 1 mbs download. In other parts of NYC I am getting 18 or 19 mbs where before at most I would get 6 mbs download. Upload speeds on the iPhone 5 are regularly over 10 mbs. Before, I was lucky to get over 1 or 2 mbs. So the fast LTE speeds are reason enough to upgrade. Note, the amazing thing is that battery still is great and maybe greater than the iPhone 4S even though it has LTE. Don't know how Apple pulled this off.2) The IPhone 5's processor is blazing fast. All benchmark tests show that it has more than double the power of the iPhone 4S. Processor speed is important as it makes everything zippier and allows you to run advanced apps better, like iMovie for video editing or iPhoto for photo editing. Smartphones are computers so if you can get a computer with faster processors it makes sense to upgrade.3) As discussed above the thinness and lightness of the IPhone 5 is profound. That is reason enough to upgrade as a lighter device makes it easier for you to use the device. You can hold it in one hand easiry for a long time if you are reading something. It is a total delight.4) Finally, the cameras are slightly better on the iPhone 5 from the iPhone 4S. I use the iPhone as the primary camera for taking pictures and videos of my family. Any increase in camera quality is also reason enough for me to upgrade.All in all the iPhone 5 is amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great smartphone.Engadget Reader100November 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 1, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Im having an issue with iOS 6.... and its not the maps. iMessage and Push notifications and email are not working. The problem is annoying but not a deal breaker.Engadget Reader100October 31, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I own the note 2 and my wife has the iPhone 5. We switched phone for a week and i absolutley fell in lust with the iPhone 5. I ran geekbench and it killed my note 2 on almost very level. I shot the same pictures on both phones using a tripod and they always looked better on the iPhone. i surfed the web on both phones and they always loaded faster on the iphone on both wifi and Verizon LTE. I am seriously thinking of switching to the iPhone though I've been an android fan and user since their inception.Engadget Reader90October 31, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Never owned an iphone/ipod before, coming from android, previous phone: Motorola Droid X.Pros:The hardware; it's a crazy light and ridiculously thin phone that looks very stylish.Speed - LTE + the processor makes everything super fast, there's all kinds of videos out there showing how it's twice as fast as the 4s.The bigger screen, i just couldn't have seen myself switching if Apple had kept a 3.5" screen. The modern screen size is 4.5" - 4.8" now, but the combination of retina display and that Apple was willing admit 3.5" is not the perfect screen size and finally increase it to 4" is enough that I'm quite happy with the screen.Screen brightness is great, easy to see outside, and very little glare.Cons:Mine came with 2 chips on the rim, almost all of friends have had chips somewhere, if it comes like that out of the box something tells me there's gonna be a lot more over time.Keeping it the same width while increasing the length gave it a great look/feel compared to previous versions, however, after a couple weeks of use, I notice in many scenarios your using both hands to use the phone and when I do my hands feel very cramped.Trying to hit both volume buttons to take a picture is annoying, I notice most people opt for using the virtual button.Engadget Reader20October 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!An awful product that should be avoided. You'll be sorry. - EngadgetEngadget Reader70October 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!iPhone 5 More of the Same Old - Following a new leaderBecause these phones are basically functionally identical in all regards I am comparing it to the S3 by Samsung for the purpose of this review.I have used Apple product since the days of the Mac IIci and have being totally loyal to the product. As each year went buy and higher sales grew, quality issues and lack of commomn Technology implemetation for peripherals and connectivity send Apple back to the Elite group who purchase the iPhone based on Status (like a Mercedes) and not quality and compatibility. I have used all versions of the iPhone. I did not keep the iPhone 5 long enough to see how reliable it was. IN the past I needed to replace each generation the iPhone 2-3 times due to quality issues. From the defective home button to graphics display chip problems to the poorly engineered plug in cords and receptacle engineered for failure outside of warranty. The only real thing that the iPhone has going for it it a large library, buy many apps are useless beta ware. Because of the reliability issues and the failure rate I have chosen the S3. Power users have a whole new smart phone world to experience that Apple controls on there side. Many technologies like NFC a Proper GPS, screen quality/size etc.... are things , or rather users that do not require Apples lockout policy for hardware and software censorship. If the following items matter to those of you who understand specs and use them then these are the key reasons the Samsung S3 for instance:1) replaceable upgradeable battery2) expandable memory ( I run 96 GB on my S3 32 with a 64 G interchangeable MicroSd card which only costs $593) more communication protocols and technology4) peripheral connections are standard micro USB for all Android products and chargers are not special. Cords and chargers have a much wider user base and are manufactured to more durable standards. I have never had any Apple connectors that withstand day to day use5) The camera in the iPhone 5 is very good but the S3 is faster , has more camera-like settings, HD Video is not quite as good as S3 and the S3 and does better panoramas which Apple recently copied6) No Swipe function for Aplpe iPhone, if you text at all you know how superior it is. Perhaps Apple should licence this old trick7) Google MAPS and GPS will always be the big brother to Apples efforts in this regard. The CEO himself recommends to download the Google App beacause the APPLE implementation blows.8) Siri is easily duplicated through Google function or if you want Bells and whistles try SKYVIIf you want to use a phone as a status symbol like people who drive a Mercedes, choose the iPhone 5. If you want the most advanced phone currently try the S3. If you want to up the Smartphone ante further wait till early Q1 for the S4 which will blow away any competition. It has to , remember Samsung makes alot of the hardware inside current smartphones. The NA market share Apple has garnered that is so Big it a miniscule market compared to the rest of the world where Apple pricing, quality and technology are not popular in the true large markets.Engadget Reader100October 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is a fantastic device. Apple has improved it in every conceivable way. Many will criticise it as being not as revolutionary as they would have hoped but the smartphone market is a mature one where the basic form factors are set. The fit and finish cannot be found anywhere else and iOS, while ageing slightly, is still a great OS. Frankly this device is the best smartphone money can buy.Engadget Reader90October 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!My second smartphone after owning using the iPhone 4S for about 8 months (my partner's getting the 4S). There's a palpable difference both in terms of design/feel and performance between the iP4S and this one. The design is obviously the culmination of previous iteration and the most cutting edge technology that still allows mass production. Perhaps the most dazzling aspect of this phone is the fact that it sells millions yet Apple has managed to remove almost all the perception one would and should expect to see in a mass-produced device. More than anything it provides the argument to prove that "Think Different" is more than a mere slogan.Engadget Reader80October 26, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 26, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader50October 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Dear Apple,Please don't force your customers to buy all new accessories and navigate into ditches unless it is absolutely necessary. I loved my 4s and would have stuck with the 5 if it weren't for you bumbling: iOS 6, iTunes for PC and your Maps application. Step it up and open up a little bit. - allow rollbacks to old versions of iOS. Why wouldn't you?- Bring back the old connector- Bring back Google Maps until your contract is up at least- IMPROVE iTunes on PC's. After updating it literally crashed my PC repeatedly (several support attempts on this failed)!!!!- IMPROVE bonjour support on PC's - Errors in syslog abound!!Engadget Reader90October 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Best iPhone yet. I love everything about it except for how easily the anodized aluminum scuffs. Pro tip: If hate phone cases like me, invest in a protective decal for the back of the phone. Gelaskins has some pretty stylish ones.Engadget Reader80October 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Best iPhone I have used but I need a GPS dock for my car and Mophie case before I can retire my iPhone 4S.Engadget Reader100October 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I'll admit, I was initially hesitant to get the new iPhone because of its new longer screen; but after using it for 3 weeks, I can't imagine not having it. The extra real estate is greatly appreciated.Engadget Reader100October 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 20, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I've upgraded from a iPhone 4, so that is the primary basis of comparison for this review. The iPhone 5 is, in every way possible, a better phone than the iPhone 4. Every. Single. Way. For iPhone 4S users, who *must* have the newest phone, it may be a slightly tougher sell, but the display, LTE, improved internals and form factor still make it worthy of an upgrade.My only small complaint is the transition to the lightning dock. However, I see that going away soon enough as well and look forward to a completely cordless device.Bottom line? If this is your first foray into iPhones/smartphones, you won't be the least bit disappointed in any way. If you're like me and upgrading from an iPhone 4 or earlier, the upgrade is absolutely a no-brainer. Upgrade as soon as possible. For iPhone 4S folks? It's still a great upgrade, and if you're able to sell your 4S for 300-500 bucks (unlocked, not an unreasonable figure), its well worth it. The iPhone remains a critical device to own.Engadget Reader90October 19, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 17, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 4 was one of the best gadgets I've ever owned. Maybe the best (though my Gameboy Color and Sony Discman are at least honorable mentions).It was the first smartphone I ever purchased. The design was stunning but understated. I wanted to use it all the time and yet somehow preserve it from the wear I was subjecting it to. Antenna gate aside, I honestly thought that when my contract was up in 2 years, I would consider keeping it as a mantle piece to show off someday or keep using it if nothing significant changed.Then the day of the iPhone 5 keynote I read the liveblogs and finished that morning as underwhelmed as everyone else. So it's taller, but not wider? It looks cool but, the iPhone 4/4s still looks higher quality. The Galaxy S3/ Lumia 920 look really good. The Foo Fighters? But I still bought it. Pre-ordered at midnight. And my iPhone 4 was on a postal truck to Gazelle within 2 weeks. And... I'm happy. It's just like you've read. Ridiculously light. Much cooler looking in person. No noticeable lag ever. Incredible screen. And LTE, when I can get it (my only regret was sticking with ATT to save a few bucks a month) is easily the biggest upgrade I have experienced. When I have full coverage LTE compared to 3G, or even WiFi in some cases, is like having a super power. It's like 3G is the guy who can float a lighter in Looper and LTE is being the Rainmaker. And when it rains you want it to pour, meaning that data cap is a lot closer than you think. Apps will download in seconds, videos upload immediately and websites don't give you time to breathe between links.In every way I thought I'd miss the iPhone 4 or pine for the latest Android handsets, the iPhone 5 satiates. Which is not to say everything is flawless. The first imperfection I noticed was on the day after it arrived. On the metal rim, by the bottom of the phone, right above the little spacers were two wear marks. Not scratches or divots, just two shark tooth shaped area's where the anodized black was not and the aluminum was bare. It is almost unnoticeable except for the kind of close, loving inspection I always give my new gadgets. And frankly, it sucked. The bloom was off the rose. Straight from the factory, it wasn't flawless. There was also a heavy rattle when i shook the phone which i think was the battery moving around, but after reading some forums about similar problems, I fixed it by squeezing the phone firmly between my fingers.And maps. On day one, before I had a chance to look at the memes or even heard about anything wrong with them, I was showing my girlfriend the 3D flyover of Downtown LA. It was smooth and cool, and I knew it was gimmicky but still, I liked it. But when I zoomed in on the buildings and parks, something was a little off. It looked muddy in places, some features looked weird and didn't render right and even when i refreshed them or looked from a different angle it still just didn't look as impressive as the Keynote had shown off. Have you ever seen a palm tree rendered by Apple maps? It's a nightmare. They look like geysers of raw sewage. And Southern California is covered in them. It was minor but, when you want to show off a shiny toy, you just want it to be what you expected. But after using it now for a few weeks, I am in love. Nobody notices it or asks about it like they did with my iPhone 4 but I'm still quietly impressed almost daily. I take a picture and it looks better than I expected, the new space in apps isn't crazy useful but the apps that still have letter-boxing I don't even want to use (YouTube). It's still light, has plenty of battery and the design has grown on me a lot. I know I'm going to sell it when the new thing comes out in a few years, I know that iOS and the iPhone are not the top dog they were when I got the iPhone 4. But that's just the nature of tech right now, you gotta be great to be desired and you have to be flawless to really stand out. I really do hope that Apple has some bigger changes planned for the next two years. If they do I'll gladly get the iPhone 6/6gs/7/??, if they don't, I'll switch. But in the interim, I'm happy I have the iPhone 5.Engadget Reader100October 16, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!My favorite gadget, let a lone phone, to date! Really a thing of beauty and performance wrapped into one. This is going to be one hard iPhone to top.Engadget Reader90October 16, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I did not buy an iPhone 5 to pretend I'm better than others. I didn't buy it to be pretentious. I bought it for the same reason I bought the iphone 4—it looks like science fiction. It's a solid slab of "magic tech", something I dreamed about having when I was a kid in the seventies.Upgrading from an iPhone 4 to this phone felt like leaving a Dodge Viper and stepping into a Reventon. It's much more luxurious and faster. Yes the 4 is still a great phone, and I'd be selling mine if not for the dings and scrapes it's accumulated over the past two years. By all means get a 4 or 4S. But take a long look at the 5 in the showroom while you're at the dealership, and consider.Engadget Reader100October 15, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is a great phone for those who enjoy technology and Apple products. Thanks to the addition of LTE and a tight tie between hardware and software, this is a fast device for web browsing, game playing, and picture-taking. The camera on the iPhone 5 is top quality, producing great normal stills, video, or high-detail panoramic shots. As the ecosystem expands to include docks or adapters, external batteries, and a larger variety of cases, this phone will bring an even better experience to smartphone users.Engadget Reader100October 14, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 14, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This iPhone 5 is one of the best phones out there right now. However, the design can be much more redesigned than using quite a same form factor from the previous generation like the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S. The iPhone 5 will be a great phone if there is more features and changes made to iOS 6. Apple should further make use of the 4 inch display to have widgets. Thus, this is the best phone for people to try on that hasn't tried Apple's ecosystem before. For former Apple users, coming from an iPhone 4/4S, there is no drastic feel in the change, except for speed and the display of the new 4 inch display on the iPhone 5.Engadget Reader80October 13, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I originally enjoyed having an iPhone. The quality of their products is very high and feels like a high quality product in your hand. It truly is a product to be proud of. On the other hand, the iOS has slowly become a boring thing to look at. It looks the exact same as it did in the first generation of iPhones. Apple needs to come up with new ideas to bring back life to their products. It is also very disappointing that the iPhone was just released a few weeks ago and already has outdated technology. Apple needs to start added new features that reinvent the phone like they did in the beginning. It is frustrating to see other phones getting new features while the iPhone gets them a year later.Engadget Reader10October 12, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!An awful product that should be avoided. You'll be sorry. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 10, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Very nice product! It's not a big change against the previous 4S, but if you were still working the 3GS or 4 updating to the 5 is worth every cent!Engadget Reader90October 9, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 8, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I am very happy with my iPhone 5 (Verizon/64GB). I had the 4 and 4S before this and feel that this was a much needed upgrade. The bigger screen was long over due. I felt like the older iPhone's (4S and earlier) were just too small. I browse the web frequently on my phone and found that viewing web pages on the 4S required a lot of zooming. The 5 has increased the size vertically, but not horizontally which is good and bad. Older apps look weird and quite frequently I find myself still drawn to larger screens which have a wider portrait view. Not sure why Apple chose to go this route.LTE is fantastic and was the primary reason I bought this phone. With Verizon limited to less than 3.2MB down due to EVDO, it was a must have for Verizon customers. I average between 7MB and 10MB down in Denver Metro. I also find that upload speeds are incredible. The only downside to LTE is that if you are not careful, you can easily burn through data. I have not seen any true hit on battery life with the addition of LTE. This was a surprise to me, but compared to my 4S, the battery life is actually a little bit better. Make no mistake though, you will need to charge this phone daily.The camera is okay, not a huge upgrade over the 4S. I wish there were more options available (black/white, settings etc.), but for a smartphone, this is still one of the best camera's. The biggest let down on the phone is iOS6. The new Maps app is horrible. I find it looks worse than Google Maps, lacks a LOT of detail, and directions are often wrong. The lack of a factory YouTube app was also a big disappointment. I feel that while iOS5 moved the operating system 2 steps forward, this update moved it back 2 or 3 steps. Another frustration is Siri. Let me just say this, Siri is horrible. I used it for about a week on the 4S and found it completely useless and never used it again. When iOS6 was announced, I figured it might become more useful and gave it another shot. I found it even more useless; searches for the wrong thing, takes forever to get results, or pulls up the wrong results. I asked " who won the 49ers game?". Siri responded " Would you like to do a search for 49ers game?" . I find simply opening ESPN Scorecenter gets me the results I need much quicker. Bottom line, Apple needs to get rid of Siri and focus on actionable notifications and/or widgets. The design of the new phone is quite a change from the 4S. While it has a similar look, 30 seconds with this phone and it will be clear this is a different design. I really liked the 4S design, specifically the glass due to its scratch resistant nature. The new aluminum design can easily lead to scratches. Funny though, my friend who bought a 5 experienced significant scratches after putting on two different cases (Incipio and Griffin), I have not put any case on my phone and it looks great so far. Overall, I like the iPhone 5. It is an excellent upgrade over the 3GS/4/4S and for those who have wanted an iPhone but wanted LTE and/or a bigger screen. For Android and Windows Phone fans, this phone will probably not give you a reason to switch.Engadget Reader90October 8, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 6, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Awesome device.Engadget Reader100October 5, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 5, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I am somewhat infatuated with iPhone 5. It is smooth and fast and pretty. I thought I wanted NFC and wireless charging and a fingerprint unlock like my Atrix 4G, but I don't miss them now. Well, fingerprint unlock would be sweet. I got what I wanted. Superfast, 16:9 retina, LTE, thin and light. It is the best smartphone available now and I'm not sure it will be knocked off it's perch by the likes of the Optimus G and One X+ though I am eager to see. As stated previously I would gladly trade some of the lightness for a steel, rather than soft aluminum, band around the phone.Engadget Reader90October 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!iPhone 5 can run iOS 6 fastest among other iPhones due to its A6 processor. The weight is very much lighter than any smartphone. Still you can type with one thumb. The battery is great for everyday use. I use iPhone 5 for everything. Taking pictures, playing games, music, games and even reading books and pdfs. One weakness is that most of the apps are not iPhone 5 optimized yet. So, the larger screen hasn't performed perfectly. The passbook is awesome. The display is better than that of 4s. I already compared with 4s;when the brightness is set to maximum, 4s screen just increase the background brightness whereas 5 screen bright up every pixel. The camera works great. This is must have phone for everyone.Engadget Reader90October 4, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Solid update. Apps feel much more responsive with the upgraded hardware, very noticeable coming from an iPhone 4S.Camera has this purple hazing effect.Quality of build regarding QA is suspect in the first few batches, be very weary and astringent when it comes to perfection out of the box.Engadget Reader100October 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I'm a former Android user, for the time being, coming from a Motorola Droid X (http://gdgt.com/motorola/droid/x/reviews/4ee/). I also wrote a review for iOS 6: http://gdgt.com/apple/ios/6/reviews/t6a/.--Favorite things about the iPhone 5:Goodbye Mr. BlurrycamThe iPhone 5 camera is one of the best you can find on a phone. I'm able to get more sharp, in focus images with the iPhone, even in some low light conditions, than I did with my old phone. Generally, picture quality is great with ton of detail. This was something that I was most looking forward to and it has met my expectations.ScreentasticWhen I first saw the iPhone 4 display, I was pretty damn impressed. I think iPhones always had pretty great displays, but the high pixel density puts it over the top and not that I experiencing it day to day, having a screen with a PPI of 300+ is pretty much a necessity for me at this point. I'm really impressed by the visibility of the screen in direct sunlight, text and images are perfectly readable when I'm outside. Also, I give a lot of credit to Apple for getting down auto-brightness. It adjusts perfectly when I go from indoors to outdoors, which is something that I had some issues with on my old phone. Oh, another thing on quality, I was looking at pictures from my old phone and they looked BETTER on the iPhone.Smaller is betterUsing an 4.3" Android for around two years, I was pretty convinced that I'd have a hard time adjusting to a smaller screen size when it came to just having a larger image, but especially when it came to typing. After using this phone for a bit, I can say that I'm very happy with the smaller size. One-handed operation is worlds better and I don't feel as cramped as I thought I would be when it comes to typing. Don't get me wrong, I think I could benefit from having some additional width on the screen, but it's not a deal breaker. I really appreciate the thinner, lighter design too. It's pretty effortless to get it in and out of my pocket. I still use my old phone for some things and it feels like a brick in comparison.--What I would change about the iPhone 5:Fit like a gloveThe best phone I've ever held was the Palm Pre. The nice curves conformed to my hand well, so it was really great to hold. While I do like the industrial look of the iPhone, it's just a tad bit edge-y. Scratchy McScratchersonI'm one of the unlucky people who got a phone with a tiny scuff on the side. I figure if there's a scuff on it without me even using it, it's going to look like hell after a few months of use. I'm not sure if there's any material out there that give a nice balance between svelte aesthetics and durability, but if there is, I hope they use it.Camera button (no cool title for this)iPhone has a camera button (volume up button), but it's not a real camera button. My old phone has a two-stage, dedicated camera button and it was awesome being able to pre-focus. But the best thing about it was it's location. When I take a picture, I like to rotate my phone counterclockwise in my left hand and I instinctively press my right pointer finder to take a picture, but there's no button there. Apple will never do this, but this was one thing that I have yet to erase from my muscle memory. I'll give it more time.tl;dr: iPhone 5 hardware is great.Engadget Reader90October 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I have gone with many mobile phone trying to find one that I can use outside. Most have beautiful display but the screen bleaches out and the camera become so bleach out that you can not see what you are take. No problem with the iPhone 5!Engadget Reader90October 3, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader30October 2, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Great camera, but lens flare makes it unusable in many occasions. Design is great and perfect to pocket, but iPhone 5 is really prone to chips and scratches. I would doubt, that this product will sell in major Asian markets with success. LTE is plus, Apple is reaching competition in this front. As left handed I have to say, that headset connector placement is one of the worst design ideas from Apple ever. iTunes is great limitation of Apple ecosystem. I would expect some commonly used free media formats to be supported already now. Forcing customers to buy new (and ugly) accessories due new Lightning connector is not an improvement in end user perspective. WB-AMR is great achievement, but for example Nokia products have supported it couple of years already. And the Apple Maps, WiFi mishaps. How that happened? iOS is as ease to use as any contemporary UI. Actually some UI designs are already ahead of it - usability wise. Battery life is quite a normal for a smart phone today.Great design, bad execution.Engadget Reader90October 2, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 2, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Whilst it's a welcome upgrade, it's definitely evolutionary. The iPhone 5 doesn't do much that the iPhone 4S doesn't. Most of the new features that were touted were actually iOS improvements, and as a developer that's been using iOS 6 for months, the upgrade wasn't as 'big' as you'd think. I'm not a fan of the design, but it's still beautiful compared to most other things I've seen when it comes to smartphone design. LTE is nice, but fast data speeds can only do so much for a phone that hasn't really changed in two years.Engadget Reader80October 1, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100October 1, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This is quite obviously the best phone that I have ever owned, used, or heard of. It lacks some super-high-end features, like NFC or inductive charging, but this is honestly just the best experience there is. It may be conservative to 2013's standards, but the whole platform is stable, understandable, and it works remarkably. I had a Samsung Android phone previous to this one, and I was constantly fed up with the thing being confusing, slow, and generally unreliable. The iPhone is a breathe a fresh air for me in many ways, and my *first* breathe in every other way.Engadget Reader90September 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader10September 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!It is so easy to scratch. I think it is stupid to design a produce not resistant to scratch even put on desk.Engadget Reader70September 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!right, its got a good name but i think its a waste of money, if you want a good iphone, whats wrong with the 4s for half the price.dvdxr90September 30, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A good, if incremental, update. There was no "one more thing" this year, but the entire phone has been updated from the materials, screen (size and quality), speed, memory, to even the cameras and sensors.Engadget Reader80September 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader70September 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I think that if you're an Apple fan, this is the phone to get. I would strongly recommend this phone if you use a Mac, or have an iPad or iPod. If you're unbiased, this phone should have come out a year ago. I would recommend HTC's One X (or the sequel, coming soon) or Nokia's Lumia 920. For anyone with a functioning cerebellum, this review is insulting. Gdgt is extremely biased towards Apple, and always gives their products better reviews than other companies. I wouldn't be surprised if Apple was paying them. Overall, this is a nice phone, and if you're not sure what to get and you use other Apple devices, it's definitely a solid choice. But if you want more, or want to pay less, iPhone's aren't the way to go.Engadget Reader80September 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Okay, I'm a former iPhone 4 user and I've read every single professional review to date. If you want to read professional reviews, I think you only need to bother with The Verge's, Daring Fireball's, and Pocket Lint. The Great* 4" screen is a big improvement. Especially when snapping photos, browsing the web in landscape, and playing games. Screen itself is brighter and more sharp compared to the 4/4S. Most likely due to thinner glass display. Close to the HTC One X in terms of overall sharpness. * The 5 is substantially lighter than the 4/4S. Aluminum backing is more durable and enjoyable to hold compared to the glass backing of the 4/4S.* Low light performance of the camera is miles beyond 4/4S.* LTE, if available to you, is amazingly fast. * Ditto wi-fi if your router allows it. * New Lightning connector is a step up from the 30 pin connector. Smaller and allows for double sided use. * Front facing camera is HD.*A6 chip leaves little to be desired in terms of overall performance.* Black model is gorgeous. White model, while also stunning, is more feminine IMO.* 16:9 aspect ratio allows for superior video viewing.The Not So Great* Chamfered edges on black model are prone to scuffs, nicks, and scratches. Sometimes out of the box. This is a design flaw. Apple shouldn't have bothered with coloring the aluminum in the first place. That's the cause for all these scuffs. You will see these issues if you choose to use your iPhone 5 naked. Even with extreme care. Apple messed up by making the edges shiny and beautiful and essentially ignoring the fact that they are going to get scuffed in a hurry. Thumbs down Apple. * Apple Maps is a step down from Google Maps. Expect things to get better with iOS 7 next fall. Until then, you can use the web shortcut for Google Maps (as I am) or other Maps apps. Turn-by-turn on Apple Maps is solid.* Battery life is a step down compared to my 4 under the same usage and setting. A shame. * Apple is charging $30 for the Lightning to 30 pin adapter. As if that didn't suck enough, they are not currently available. Just a vague 'October' release date on Apple's site. Uh, what? I have to bring the power adapter and cable that came with the iPhone 5 everywhere I go in the meantime (home to work to meetings, etc). Why the hell aren't these adapters available from day one Apple? Bizarre. * iOS 6, while great, leaves something to be desired. How about the ability to toggle wi-fi or brightness without having to enter Settings? How about Siri being able to control such things? How about notifications that don't cover up content on your screen? Placement of bookmarks icon in landscape has been moved and it drives me crazy. I keep hitting the new tab icon in landscape. Ugh. * Headphone jack on bottom is annoying IMO. Gotta be even worse for lefties. I'm a rightly but the cord still keeps getting in my way as I'm changing songs. Should have kept the jack on the top IMO. * A slightly wider screen would enhance the portrait mode experience. How about a 4.3" screen that keeps the 16:9 aspect ratio? I'm not buying this line of thought that a slightly wider screen would be more difficult to use with one hand. A larger screen (4.7", 4.8") is in fact impossible to use with one hand comfortably if you have average sized hands. What I'm proposing is something completely different. * USA carrier complaint: AT&T should allow customers under contract to unlock their iPhone 5 if they choose to for use internationally. Give consumers the choice to use a local SIM when we are abroad. We are still under contract to AT&T, so they don't have to worry about losing money. Even if we potentially were to leave early, we still are on the hook for the ETF. This makes no sense to me. I'm chained to AT&T when I go abroad for the next 2 years if I want to use my iPhone 5 or I can pay an outrageous premium and go contract free from the start. Verizon iPhone 5 allows GSM local SIM use internationally however I find their monthly plans to be more expensive for my use plus the lack of simultaneous phone and data use is a hindrance. * Why the lack of an LED notification light?* Hey, how about using this thing with gloves on? (Lumia 920 allows such a thing.)In ConclusionI love my iPhone 5. But it's a seriously flawed device. The chamfered edges are going to get scratches and the like without a case. The black model more so than the white one but it's inevitable. Anyone saying otherwise is dead wrong. I love the larger screen but something slightly wider would have been better. Perhaps 4.3" in 16:9. Battery life is an issue. It's solid, but a step down from my iPhone 4. This is year six of me using an iPhone of some sort. I think the iPhone 5 is the best overall smartphone on the market. But the competition from Android is improving. And while the 5 is a huge leap forward from the 4S, I still think there is a great deal that can be improved for the iPhone 6 in 2014. In the meantime, I know I'll enjoy my 5 greatly and despite its clear flaws, I highly recommend it.Engadget Reader100September 29, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is just like the iPhone 4s in everyday. Except for the fact that it's better, faster, bigger, and lighter. Now before you call me a fanboy understand that I also carry a Galaxy Siii. The iPhone 5 just lifts the bar for smartphones higher. Sure, it still looks the same (for the most part) but it works and has worked and you can't blame Apple for going with a tried and true winning formula.Engadget Reader90September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a major issue that doesn't show up in the score sliders:Network interface.On my Verizon iPhone 5 I am seeing mysterious spikes in my cellular Data. I'm not talking just more use because it's new, faster, etc. I'm talking major spikes that should not occur such as when I'm on wifi. In the past I never reached 2GB in a month- now, after 1 week of use I'm at 2.4GB and I've barely used the phone-- especially with cellular data. I'm almost always at home or work which both have wifi which my phone is set up to use. This is going to be a big issue that Verizon/Apple will have to acknowledge. This is the next apology from Apple.Engadget Reader100September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Love itEngadget Reader100September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Upon first opening the iPhone 5 package my first impression was that of hope. Hope that I did not waste my money on a flub of a phone and the risk of being called a "fanboi" ( how dare they)! I was not disappointed. Apple's iPhone 5 came with the Phone, the new charging cable and the classic wall usb charger, and phenomenal new ear buds. On activating the device it went smoothly and took about 15 min from turning on the device to having it 100% ready to go. I had upgraded from a jailbroken iPhone 4 so all of my contacts, photos/videos, notes, calendar events, bookmarks, and apps carbon copied onto my new device. The new processor is FAST that is compared to my single core A4 for the iPhone 4, the new 4G LTE is also screaming fast, I am certainly going to have to upgrade my data package. Its taller screen is nice, it took a little getting used to and re-organizing my apps for the 5th vertical row, but I'm adjusted to it now and my apps seem easier to organize. Looking at the device as a whole I really think Apple did a good job upgrading from the 4s. With the new iOS 6 with siri updated, new maps, better camera and screen, faster processor I like this phone. However I do plan on jailbreaking it as soon as that's available in order to open up the true potential of this device.Engadget Reader50September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Odd shape seminiscent of old candy bar phones, premium look and feel but nowhere near the game changer it SHOULD have been, in my opinion Apple does not justify the high price this time around, and to charge extra for the port adapter is ridiculous when so many millions od accessories have been sold with the 30 pin legacy port. Really is outrageous profiteering.Engadget Reader90September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best phone I've owned.I've been an Android user for the past 2 years but it was time I moved from a device that did it's job well, to a device that exceeds. Yes, there are things I'll miss, but the gains in user experience more than make up for it.The reports and proof of the device being damaged very easily are worrying, but with a good case, it's easy to avoid this. Any device, without protection, will dent, scratch or fade in colour. It's just how things are. I have sympathy for those that opened their boxes to find damaged goods, but if you insist on putting your phone in a pocket with keys or take to testing it's durability out of the box, you're on your own.The extra mm in height for the screen make a huge difference. Consumption is effortless and well presented. As apps catch up with the new form factor, they look and act better too.Engadget Reader60September 28, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A forgettable product. It isn't bad, exactly, but also doesn't do anything particularly well. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 27, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetBrian90September 27, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 26, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 26, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 sets the standard for the design of a smartphone. GIven it's Apple's 6th iPhone, they know exactly what they're doing.Highlights include:- Better camera in low light.- Noise cancelling through the receiver - you can definitely tell when its in action - and works incredibly well in a loud environment.- Faster chip - you can definitely notice the speed difference on swiping through the device.- Weight - so much lighter.- Speaker - music sounds a tonne better and it doesn't crackle like previous phones used to.- Facetime over LTE - spoke with a friend in Singapore for 30 minutes whilst in the CBD - crystal clear. "It's clearer than your Retina Macbook Pro"- Taller Screen - It seems so right - when you pick up an iPhone with 3.5 inch screen it feels like it should have always been tall.- Wireless N Dual Band - much better and doesn't slow the network down.- Safari Full Screen in iOS 6 - turning the phone sideways gives a great experience.- Viewing Videos in native 16:9 makes them look so much bigger.- Passbook - looking forward to seeing it in action.Opps:- Durability - A little concerned over time that the phone will look all banged up - it might look good - character can go a long way!- Vibration - when putting vibration on, the iPhone makes a very slight rattling noise (tested over 2 devices), not as clean a sound as the 4 or 4S.Couldn't be more satisfied!Engadget Reader100September 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is truly a superior piece of technology. Other reviews have detailed hundreds of pros and cons, but I feel that the iPhone 5 is a good example of how a product can be more than the sum of its parts. The iPhone doesn't have the biggest screen, most advanced communication technology, or media support. The iPhone is way late to the party on 4G and panorama photo support. However, the phone is simply a pleasure to use every time you turn it on. The screen is crystal clear and displays outstanding colors. The applications that I use every day (phone, text, Mail, facebook, Epocrates, Micromedex, Reminders, etc.) are smooth and highly functional. The phone is very fast, the 4G speeds are outstanding, and the applications work flawlessly. The beauty of the iPhone 5 is in the gestalt of the experience as a whole, rather than any single element. The iPhone 5 offers the best experience of any phone on the market, period.Engadget Reader90September 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I have only been using the iPhone 5 for 4 days so this review is subject to small changes. it's great. I have the white iPhone 5 16GB. I haven't seen any of the scuffing or scratching issues. It's was perfect out of the box. I had the iPhone 4 previously and I am glad I skipped the iPhone 4S.Battery life has been less than ideal. I think I remember feeling the same way about the iPhone 4 when I got it and realized that I was constantly using it which was why the battery went so fast. I will be reading other reviews and checking back to see if it's just me.LTE is FAST! I know android users have been saying this for a while but WOW!Engadget Reader90September 25, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 isn't the iPhone we were expecting but is still one of the best smartphones.Engadget Reader100September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader70September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone 5 is what the 4S should have been. Most of the technology in this phone has been available in other phones for 19 to 24 months. Missing must-have features like NFC support.Engadget Reader100September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!With its bigger screen, LTE, and fast A6 chip, the iPhone 5 is a heck of a smartphone. I won't lie, it's not only the best iPhone, it's the best smartphone today. Apple still shows it has game left.Engadget Reader90September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone has good voice quality but is slow to ring when someone calls. It is the same as pretty much every other smart phone. The display clarity and color reproduction are excellent but the size of the screen is too small. The iPhone should be a portable computer with a phone function, but instead its small screen size makes it a phone with computer functions. I was able to drain the battery to 20% in about 3 hours. Not significantly better than recent Android phones I've owned. The camera is the best of any smartphone I have used. Key points are flexible auto-exposure and far fewer accidental button hits like are common with soft-button Androids. iOS is a simplistic operating system, making it easier to do everyday tasks, though impossible to do a lot of tasks Android can complete. The iPhone has a top-quality appearance, but its screen size is too small. The iPhone is a capable computer and should be designed to be that, and not a phone. Two models would have been ideal, one with a larger screen. Because of its small size, the iPhone 5 is the most portable super-smart phone around. Apple limits its media support to a sub-set of what is out there. They also refuse to support Flash. Overall their media support is mediocre. I haven't dropped the iPhone 5 yet, but videos online seem to show it as being reasonably durable, though it does seem to dent and scratch easily. The App Store sets the bar for apps and for-pay media, but iCloud and other services are poor by comparison to what is offered via Google and other service providers.Engadget Reader80September 24, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Based on the criteria above, I gave this a 9 / 10. There is at least one more area GDGT should have included in this review which is Build Quality (as opposed to the more general Durability, or Design and Form Factor). When you include Build Quality, at least on my phone which delivered via FedEx on Friday the 21st, and covers the Black and Slate version of the iPhone, the overall review of this phone might go as far down as 7 or 8 based on a very solid POOR, borderline AWFUL score in build quality I would end up giving it. My updated Overall rating includes my personal addition of Build quality as one of the criteria.The 'polished' edges on my phone came from the factory with dings on the top and bottom, and a few barely visible rub marks on the back aluminum plate. If this is what a brand new phone from the factory looks like after 'normal' handling for packaging and testing, I'm extremely concerned about what this phone is going to look like after a few days or weeks in real life use. Where my primary concern with the iPhone 4S was that of breaking the screen and maybe scuffing up the steel band around the phone if I dropped it, I'm actually afraid to put this new phone in my pocket without a case.. I've seen many of the durability video's popping up and in those tests the iPhone appears to fare well, at least with regard to the screen. What isn't always clear from the videos is how well the aluminum casing is holding up - in at least one it's quite obvious how much damage will appear even with a drop from around 3 feet. In another video the frame of the phone actually bends out of shape. In most of these videos the screen may not break, but the resale value of the phone will be impacted greatly if you ever intend on selling the phone later down the road. I would highly recommend an Apple Care extended warranty for this phone, and wouldn't be surprised if Apple drops the "2 accidental drops" clause from this contract with the iPhone 5.Engadget Reader90September 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Haters going to hate. Don't listen to the media about all the so called problems. Most real users of the iPhone will tell you that this is the greatest phone Apple has ever made, and it is. Yes, there are a few little quirks here and there but Apple will fix these in a timely manner like they always do. This is the lightest phone I've ever used and the build quality on this thing is above and beyond. It almost feels like the phone was chiseled from a solid block of aluminum. You have to see one to believe it. There are zero gaps anywhere. The home button also feels much improved and feels more solid when clicking.tikka_masala90September 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Its a beautiful piece of technology. A cellphone is one of the most (ab)used gadgets. I needs to be easy to use and durable. No one in the market has a better way of designing and building a product like iPhone. iPhone 5 is durable, beautiful and like every other iPhone easy to use. Its a must buy for anyone with iPhone 4 or older.Engadget Reader100September 23, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!When the pictures of the teardrop iPhone surfaced in the Spring of 2011, almost everyone (including me) got their hopes up for some fantastic iPhone redesign that would blow our socks off. While that redesign did not happen, Apple still managed to produce a phone that completely shows up the last generation iPhone and all of its competitors. The design is fantastic. As I wrote in my criteria comment for "Portability," it is deceptively light. The all black device looks unbelievably svelte, and makes apps not updated for the new screen height look good even when letterboxed.It is the fastest smartphone available (http://www.anandtech.com/show/6324/the-iphone-5-performance-preview), and it really shows in day-to-day use. From web browsing, to checking and responding to email, to taking a picture and sharing it to Twitter, everything happens without any stutter or slowdown.The screen has a noticeably lower amount of glare because iPhone 5 has one fewer layer in the display. Color saturation has been greatly improved, and the phone is now brighter at each level of brightness than it was able to be before, all while maintaining its high-res 326PPI retina status.The camera takes far better shots in low light, but otherwise remains the same great camera that we saw in the 4S.And LTE. Ohhhh, LTE. I know Android users have had this for a long time, but this is one of the greatest things ever. I'm sure speeds will diminish as millions of people unlock their iPhones, but cruising around Orlando yesterday I was getting 25Mbps down and 15Mbps up. Those are some wickedly fast speeds and a huge improvement over HSPA+.In summary, the phone is one of the greatest pieces of hardware I've ever owned, and despite some fears about durability, there's not much more I could ask for from its build and design quality. It's simply marvelous.The only improvements I think need to be made to Apple's phone system, is to their mobile OS. In my iOS 6 review (http://gdgt.com/apple/ios/6/reviews/svc/), I noted some of the more serious shortcomings with this update.For me, the jump from iOS 5 to 6 is the least severe of any of the other jumps, and lacks a headline feature that makes iOS 6 huge. It could have been Maps, but most seem to be bemoaning Apple's move away from Google. It could have been Passbook, but until we see real world implementation, it's just a coupon and rewards card holder. I'm sure it will be great for people who fly tens of thousand of miles a year, but for the mainstream consumer I feel like it's just another organizer. Yes, iOS 6 brought some welcome quality of life improvements like VIP mailboxes, do not disturb, and Facebook integration, but there's nothing huge that leaves me in awe.This brings me to the point where I extrapolate this phenomenon to consumer technology in general. For the last 4 years or so, from the first iPhone up through the iPhone 4 (maybe not including the 3GS), Apple was completely focused on innovation. Each year they increased their lead over the competition by a huge margin. While I really think the iPhone 5 has a lot of hardware innovations that set it apart from the rest of the pack, I'm truly afraid iOS 6 is no longer "the world's best mobile operating system" as touted by countless Apple executives. iOS has a lot of things going for it, and it always has, but Android is creeping up, and there are a lot of things in Android that I would love to see make their way over to iOS. Being able to set default apps, some sort of live updates on the homescreen (widgets, or animated app icons), and improvements to notifications. These are all areas where Apple is falling behind, and I bet the designers and developers in Cupertino know it. Those first four years of iPhone, iPad, and iOS development were huge for Apple, and put them light years ahead of the next best thing. Although I don't think they've been resting on their laurels (they are making huge advancements in other areas like display technology, for instance), I think they are becoming a little conservative in identifying the areas they need to improve. As Jony Ive said in the iPhone 5 introduction video - they have a great product, and they don't want to screw it up. While that philosophy makes sense in the long run, I think the iOS platform (iPhone and iPad included) has a robust enough consumer base that big changes will be absorbed without issue in the short run, and will only serve to improve the overall experience in the long term.Engadget Reader100September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!For me this is the fastest and best iPhone ever. Looks and feels like it was designed by a Euro wristwatch maker, and built in Switzerland by BMW. Drives like one, too.The Ultimate Driving MachineEngadget Reader100September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Overall this a great phone, it might not be at the top of the spec sheet compared to the competition but i'd like to see anyone else fit so much tech into a tiny gadget like the iphone 5. this is absolutely an amazing piece of hardware in every aspect. The design and form factor is perfect for one handed use and portability. this is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to be in a an amazing ecosystem.Engadget Reader100September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Each iPhone introduced thus far seems to have its own headlining feature:iPhone: reinventioniPhone 3G: faster networking speedsiPhone 3GS: better performanceiPhone 4: redesigned iPhoneiPhone 4S: better performance, SiriWhile many (or perhaps a bunch of vocal critics) panned the iPhone 5 for being “disappointing†or “boring†during its launch because they were expecting a repeat of 2007's “reinventionâ€, the iPhone 5 is actually quite the leapfrogging iteration in Apple's series of smartphones: It includes faster networking speeds, better performance, and a redesigned chassis - major improvements that defined previous generations combined within one single new iPhone.Performance and NetworkingThe iPhone 4S was no slouch in performance, having an A5 chip that was entirely adequate for running iOS and apps smoothly, but the A6 chip iPhone 5 uses is something else. According to benchmarks so far, iPhone 5's A6 chip is firmly in the next-generation of its class, handily beating close rivals in various benchmarks. Apple has never focussed on winning a spec war, but the victory here has the inevitable effect of apps launching even faster than before, things run smoother on an already fast iOS, and things are just extremely responsive.With the powerful A6 chip paired with lightning-fast LTE networking, iPhone 5 isn't just fast - it's shockingly fast, and that creates a very wonderful experience. You don't feel encumbered by your phone when everything zips along at your command, and that is really a rather intangible thing to describe. One needs to be using the phone, things loading almost instantaneously (provided a good connection) under his or her thumb to appreciate such “magicâ€.All these with greater battery life than the that of the iPhone 4S due to the more efficient nature of the A6 and LTE components provides a delightful experience.DesignThe performance is also contained in a fantastically thin enclosure. Volumetrically, the iPhone 5 is some 12% smaller than the iPhone 4S despite a larger screen and all around better performance. The aluminium unibody of the phone gives it a very premium feel (with or without considering the competition), and the svelte and light phone is comfortable to hold and feels solid.The design is also another defining feature of the iPhone 5. In my opinion, the black model in particular is understatedly seductive, with the gleaming chamfered edges highlighting that this is no normal phone. The iPhone 5 is affordable luxury - it is manufactured and designed as if it was a $500 Mont Blanc pen, except it is simultaneously also a very capable smartphone well worth its price tag, and not much more expensive than its peers. ConclusionThe rest of the phone are what people have come to love - and hate - about the iPhone. iOS is what it does as much as what it doesn't: there are no widgets, save for the few stock ones in the Notifications Center, it has the same fundamental approach to home screens and app management as before, and it is decidedly limited in user customisability. People who have those priorities will no doubt find the iPhone 5 lacking. While there are definitely caveats that Apple could fix, this is an excellent smartphone unless you prefer other operating systems and their associated features. On the other hand, its usual bread-and-butter of an excellent App Store, a well-designed and smooth user interface and stable OS will continue to appeal to those who appreciate such niceties. Coupled with the absolutely beautiful hardware, the iPhone 5 will be the phone that is close to perfection for many people.Engadget Reader40September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Overall the iPhone 5 is Apple's second design, innovation, and competition fail in a row. It really is time for the guys and gals down in Cupertino to start spending more money on innovation, rather than wasting it on litigation in a desperate attempt to stifle competition from companies who offer so much more for less. I am really disappointed in this product, and if you haven't heard or read about the major problems with Apple Maps it's imperative that you do so before even considering this phone.Engadget Reader100September 22, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The new iPhone simply isn't boring as other critics would say. It is the best phone I own. (And I have a couple droids including an HTC One X and a Galaxy Nexus - both running 4.1.x). The screen size on the iPhone 5 is perfect and it feels great in your hand. (I find the HTC One X is a little too big and the Nexus feels like plastic.)It is a hug upgrade over the old iPhone: I get 30+ Mbps everywhere but in my basement, the screen is gorgeous, it really is thin, and it is noticeably faster that the old iPhone.Even if you have a 4S I'd encourage you to think about getting one. It really is the best phone out there.Engadget Reader80September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The iPhone is the default for me when it comes to recommending a smartphone. Its fast and has a huge stable of apps. The design of the iPhone 5 like the 4/4S is a little too mechanical for me as it feels tenuous and uncomfortable in my hands despite being well-built. The height ads to issues with reaching to the top of the screen as well. The wonderfully bright and sharp screen which adds to the height, is one of the best I have ever seen on a smartphone. Obviously, iTunes and iCloud make media support a nightmare but a simple nightmare. iOS feels incredibly long in the tooth and for someone bored with it or looking for more progressive design, it is incredibly frustrating to use. Apple has added to its stable of smartphones a device that is exactly what it should be and nothing less.Engadget Reader90September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This is our 4 model iPhone! We skipped the 3GS and 4S. While I still love the original the best. The iPhone 5 is now the top heap.David90September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There isn't much to say. Apple too gdgt's top-rated iPhone 4S, stretched it, shaved it, fed it some Red Bull, and unleashed it upon the world.It's surprisingly thin. It's AMAZINGLY light. And it's FAST! What more could you want in a phone? Instead of doing one thing best, the iPhone 5 does EVERYTHING and it does it with style.Engadget Reader100September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!It looks and feels great in your hand. The phone is noticeably lighter and the new screen size isn't that dramatic but having a extra row of icons is nice. The colors in the screen seem more vibrant and the camera is good as usual but a little quicker then 4s. Cant relay see a big difference in overall speed since the 4s was already snappy, but it seems like it handled the big games and apps more smoothly with no lag. Overall its mainly a cosmetic upgrade everything is great about it I have no complaints but theirs nothing i couldn't live without either. I would defiantly upgrade a from a 4 or lower, might not worth it from a 4s but if you got money to blow its nice phone bling.Engadget Reader100September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100September 21, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Coming from the 4S, this was a big upgrade. The taller screen is great for viewing more content at once. I love the design, it fits well into Apple's product line and feels designed down to the very smallest details. A lot better than the plastic, slightly ugly GSIII. The software feels a little dated but it's easy to navigate, and does most of what I want from a smartphone. LTE speeds are faster than my home wi-fi, I just wish AT&T had an unlimited plan, seen as I get through my data in just a few days. No complaints about speed, the phone never lags and everything loads extremely quickly. In terms of the hardware itself, I see little reason for those with an Android phone to criticize, but at the moment if they're happy with their current phone and don't mind a less well designed phone, Android 4.0/4.1 is a great OS that, at the moment, offers more than iOS. But for me, coming from the previous generation iPhone, I'm really happy with the iPhone 5.Engadget Reader90September 19, 2012Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - Engadget
Key Specs
TYPE
Smartphone
OPERATING SYSTEM
IOS
SCREEN SIZE
422
INTERNAL MEMORY
161
CAMERA
Yes
TALK TIME
3G
CARRIERS (US)
AT&T
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