Released in June 2009, the Apple iPhone 3GS was a major upgrade over its predecessor, the iPhone 3G. With faster processing power, enhanced camera features, and better overall performance, it helped solidify the iPhone’s dominance in the smartphone market. This device was the first to introduce features like video recording and a significant jump in processing power, setting the stage for future iPhone models.
In this article, we’ll explore the Apple iPhone 3GS full phone specifications, covering the camera, design, display, performance, and battery life. Let’s take a closer look at what made the iPhone 3GS a pivotal device in Apple’s smartphone history.
Apple iPhone 3GS Full Phone Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Network Technology | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch | Announced: June 2009, Released: June 2009 |
| Status | Discontinued |
| Body Dimensions | 115.5 x 62.1 x 12.3 mm (4.55 x 2.44 x 0.48 in) |
| Weight | 135 g (4.76 oz) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Display Type | TFT |
| Display Size | 3.5 inches, 36.5 cm² (~50.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Display Resolution | 320 x 480 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~165 ppi density) |
| Display Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass, oleophobic coating |
| Operating System | iOS 3, upgradable to iOS 6.1.6 |
| CPU | 600 MHz Cortex-A8 |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX535 |
| Storage Options | 8GB, 16GB, 32GB with 256MB RAM (no card slot) |
| Main Camera | 3.15 MP, f/2.8, AF |
| Video | 480p @ 30fps |
| Selfie Camera | None |
| Audio | Loudspeaker, Vibration, Proprietary ringtones |
| 3.5mm Jack | Yes |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g |
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP (headset support only) |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS |
| USB | 2.0 |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity, Compass |
| Browser | HTML (Safari) |
| Battery | Li-Ion 1400 mAh, non-removable |
| SAR | 0.26 W/kg (head), 0.79 W/kg (body) |
| Colors | Black, White |
| Models | A1325, A1303, iPhone2,1 |
| Price | About 110 EUR |
Camera
The Apple iPhone 3GS upgraded its camera to 3.15 MP, providing a significant leap in image quality compared to earlier models. The camera featured an f/2.8 aperture and autofocus, making it more capable of capturing detailed photos. Additionally, the iPhone 3GS introduced video recording in 480p at 30fps, a major innovation at the time. Despite the improvements, the device still lacked a front-facing camera for selfies or video calls.
Design and Display
The iPhone 3GS featured the same 3.5-inch TFT display found in its predecessors, with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels. This display was capable of producing vibrant colors and sharp images, with a 50.9% screen-to-body ratio. The Corning Gorilla Glass protection helped prevent scratches and smudges, ensuring the display remained in good condition even after prolonged use.
The body dimensions of the iPhone 3GS (115.5 x 62.1 x 12.3 mm) and its weight (135g) made it comfortable to hold and use with one hand. It was available in both black and white colors, depending on the storage option (8GB, 16GB, or 32GB), though the white version was only available in the 16GB and 32GB models.
Performance
The iPhone 3GS was powered by a 600 MHz Cortex-A8 processor, a significant upgrade over its predecessor, allowing for faster app loading and improved overall performance. The device also featured 256MB of RAM, ensuring smoother multitasking. The PowerVR SGX535 GPU enabled the iPhone 3GS to handle more graphics-intensive tasks, such as gaming and video playback, with ease.
This model supported iOS 3 at launch, with the ability to upgrade to iOS 6.1.6, which allowed users to access the App Store and other modern iOS features. The 3GS also introduced better 3G performance, offering faster mobile data speeds compared to the iPhone 3G.
Battery and Charging
The iPhone 3GS came equipped with a 1400 mAh Li-Ion battery, providing up to 5 hours of 3G talk time. While this may seem limited compared to modern smartphones, it was more than sufficient for everyday use at the time. The battery was non-removable, which contributed to the device’s slim design but also made battery replacement more challenging.
Durability
The iPhone 3GS maintained a solid build quality with its plastic and metal body. The Corning Gorilla Glass protection provided added durability, helping to prevent scratches and minor impacts. However, like its predecessors, the iPhone 3GS lacked water and dust resistance, features that are now standard in modern smartphones.
