iPhone 4 Review: A Classic Smartphone That Redefined the Mobile Industry

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May 18, 2025

Introduction: The Legacy of the iPhone 4

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, few models have left a mark as significant as the iPhone 4. Released in June 2010, it was more than just a smartphone — it was a turning point in mobile technology. With the introduction of a Retina display, Apple A4 chip, and a brand-new design with a stainless steel frame and glass body, the iPhone 4 became an instant classic.


Product Information

  • Brand: Apple
  • Model: iPhone 4
  • Release Date: June 24, 2010
  • Operating System: iOS 4 (upgradable to iOS 7.1.2)
  • Display: 3.5-inch Retina Display (960×640 pixels)
  • Processor: Apple A4
  • Storage Options: 8GB / 16GB / 32GB
  • Camera: 5 MP Rear Camera with LED Flash, VGA Front Camera
  • Battery Life: Talk time up to 7 hours on 3G
  • Build: Glass front and back with stainless steel frame
  • Weight: 137g

Article Body

Why People Prefer the iPhone 4

The iPhone 4 became popular for several reasons:

  1. Revolutionary Design: The first iPhone with a flat, glass front and back.
  2. Retina Display: Unprecedented clarity and pixel density.
  3. Multitasking OS: iOS 4 brought multitasking and folder organization.
  4. FaceTime: First iPhone to support video calling.
  5. App Ecosystem: Access to thousands of apps on the App Store.

Core Features of the iPhone 4

  • Display:
    Apple introduced the Retina Display, boasting a pixel density of 326 ppi — a first for smartphones at the time.
  • Camera:
    The 5 MP camera with LED flash allowed for high-quality photos and 720p HD video recording.
  • Build Quality:
    The glass and stainless steel frame set a premium standard for phone designs.
  • Performance:
    Powered by Apple’s custom A4 chip, the iPhone 4 handled multitasking smoothly for its time.
  • Software:
    iOS 4 introduced folders, multitasking, iBooks, and Game Center.

Additional Features

  • FaceTime for Video Calls
  • Gyroscope Sensor for Enhanced Gaming
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot (Added in iOS 4.3)
  • Voice Control
  • Bluetooth 2.1
  • Noise Cancellation with Dual Mics

Warranty & Service

Apple offered a standard 1-year limited warranty with the option to extend using AppleCare. It included hardware repairs and limited software support. Official service centers were well-known for efficient repair services and customer care.


What Other Users Say

The iPhone 4 received rave reviews upon release. Users appreciated:

  • The design and build quality
  • Smooth user interface
  • Excellent call clarity
  • Reliable performance
  • Long-lasting battery

Some criticisms included signal issues due to the antenna design — known as “Antennagate.” Apple responded by offering free bumpers to users.


Final Verdict

The iPhone 4 wasn’t just a phone — it was a technological milestone. It set the benchmark for future smartphone designs, performance, and user expectations. Even today, it’s remembered fondly for its elegance and innovation.


Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Premium glass and steel design
  • Retina Display with crisp visuals
  • Great camera for its time
  • Introduction of FaceTime
  • Smooth iOS experience

Cons:

  • Antennagate signal issues
  • No expandable storage
  • Limited by modern app standards
  • No 4G support
  • Non-removable battery

Conclusion

The iPhone 4 remains one of the most iconic smartphones ever made. It brought groundbreaking features and refined Apple’s vision of the smartphone. For tech enthusiasts and collectors, it’s a reminder of the time when the mobile revolution truly accelerated.


See More Information and Buy on Amazon

You can still find refurbished models of the iPhone 4 on Amazon. While it’s not suitable for daily use anymore due to outdated software, it’s a great collector’s item or secondary phone.

đź”— Buy iPhone 4 on Amazon
đź”— Apple Official Site for Legacy Support


5 Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I still use the iPhone 4 in 2025?
A1: Technically yes, for calls, texts, and basic apps, but most modern apps won’t work due to iOS limitations.

Q2: Is the iPhone 4 good for photography?
A2: For its time, yes. But compared to modern smartphones, it lacks low-light performance and advanced features.

Q3: Does iPhone 4 support WhatsApp or Instagram today?
A3: Not reliably, as both apps have dropped support for iOS 7.

Q4: What was unique about the iPhone 4 design?
A4: It was the first to feature a flat design with a stainless steel band and glass back.

Q5: What is Antennagate?
A5: A signal issue caused by holding the phone in a certain way, which was addressed with a free case program.


5 Article-Relevant Image Links

  1. đź“· iPhone 4 Front View:
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5e/IPhone_4_Black_Front.jpg
  2. đź“· Side Profile with Antenna Band:
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4e/IPhone_4_side.jpg
  3. đź“· Original Packaging:
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/48/IPhone_4_Box.jpg
  4. đź“· Rear Camera Close-up:
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e1/IPhone_4_Back_Camera.jpg
  5. đź“· Steve Jobs Launching iPhone 4:
    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/23/Steve_Jobs_with_iPhone_4.jpg

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