The second-generation iPhone, released in 2008 as the iPhone 3G, was Apple's first smartphone with 3G cellular data and support for third-party apps through the App Store. It succeeded the original iPhone by addressing critical limitations while expanding functionality.
The iPhone 3G introduced several breakthrough features:
These changes addressed the original iPhone's slow data speeds and closed system. The 3G model sold 10 million units in its first year, compared to 6.1 million for the original.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.54 x 2.32 x 0.57 inches |
| Weight | 4.7 ounces |
| Display | 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen (320×480 pixels) |
| Processor | 620MHz Samsung ARM11 |
| Storage | 8GB or 16GB |
| Camera | 2MP with no video recording |
| Battery | 1150mAh (up to 5 hours talk time) |
The iPhone 3G established patterns still visible in modern smartphones. Its App Store created the mobile application economy, generating $1 billion in developer payouts within its first year. The device also popularized location-based services through GPS integration.
Apple sold 20.7 million iPhone 3G units in 2008, accounting for 12.8% of global smartphone sales that year. This marked the beginning of Apple's rise to become the world's most valuable company by market capitalization in 2010.
Many confuse the iPhone 3G with the iPhone 3GS (its successor). The 3GS added video recording, voice control, and a faster processor, while the 3G lacked these features. Another myth is that the iPhone 3G introduced the App Store - it actually launched alongside the device, not on it.
When I visited an Apple Store during the iPhone 3G launch, lines stretched around blocks. Customers waited 4-6 hours to purchase the device. This was my first experience witnessing the cultural phenomenon Apple products had become, setting the stage for future launches.
The second-generation iPhone set the template for annual upgrades. Each new model addressed limitations of its predecessor while introducing revolutionary features. To understand this progression, explore the iphone new generation that followed.
For those interested in comparing the first and second generations, examine the original iPhone's specs to see how quickly mobile technology advanced.