THE IPHONE ARCHIVE · 2010
With the iPhone 4, the display and the body became a much larger part of the story. The flat glass surfaces and metal edge gave this generation an identity that remains easy to recognise.
What changed with this iPhone?
Apple introduced the Retina display, FaceTime video calling and the A4 chip. A 5-megapixel rear camera with LED flash added HD video recording. The phone arrived with iOS 4, and initial availability began on 24 June 2010.
| At a glance | Original generation |
|---|---|
| Display milestone | Retina display |
| Video calling | FaceTime |
| Processor | Apple A4 |
| Rear camera | 5 MP with LED flash |
A screen is also a reading surface
When comparing phone displays, size is only one part of the experience. Text edges, interface elements and photographs all depend on how detail is rendered. This is why the Retina announcement belongs in any history of the iPhone: it moved attention from how much could fit on the screen to how cleanly it could be shown. FaceTime, meanwhile, made the front of the phone a place for conversation as well as control.
Understanding this generation
A white or black finish identifies the appearance, but not every hardware variation. Apple’s model guide distinguishes GSM and CDMA versions, so collectors should check the model number rather than assuming all iPhone 4 units are interchangeable. The 4s is also a separate generation, despite its very similar silhouette. Place the two together in a comparison only when the difference is clearly labelled.
Looking at one today
If choosing one for its industrial design, inspect both glass faces and the metal perimeter in good light. If choosing it for a software demonstration, ask for a working example of the feature you want to show. A historical launch feature should not be read as a promise that a present-day account, app or network will work on a surviving unit.
For a used device, ask the seller to demonstrate normal operation before payment. Check the exact model, storage, charging port and battery condition, and make sure the device can be set up by its next owner. A clean exterior alone does not establish its condition.
Official sources and further reading
Apple’s original announcement · Apple technical specifications