10 iPhone 3GS

The iPhone 3GS built upon its predecessor, adding better performance in the same plastic chassis.

Evolutionary Features

Voice control, magnetometer, and oleophobic-coated glass.

About iPhone 3GS

While the iPhone 3G was the iPhone we all waited for, it was a bit of a letdown when it came to performance. Phil Schiller told the keynote launch audience that the “S” stood for speed. The iPhone 3GS was up to twice as fast as the previous generations.

Additional improvements included an improved camera (3 MP with tap-to-focus and video recording capabilities), faster cellular data, and improved Bluetooth. The 3GS was also the first iPhone with voice control (spoiler alert: Siri would be introduced later). It was also the first phone to include a magnetometer to enable a new Compass app and directional positioning for Google Maps. Apple also added an oleophobic coating to the phone’s display. This coating would be used in all subsequent iPhones and helps repel oils and reduce the amount of fingerprints on the display.

iPhone 3GS Introduced

• Improved camera with video recording and tap-to-focus
• Voice control
• Magnetometer
• Oleophobic coated display