3G is a designation given to the second generation iPhone, naming it after the speedier cellular wireless spectrum. The first generation iPhone only worked with Edge data speeds. Think of it like dial-up versus broadband. With the upgrade, came a sleeker design and added features.
Instructions
iPhone 3G vs. iPhone vs. iPhone 3GS
1. Determine the network connection. Look at the top left of your iPhone's status bar. In between the carrier name and the time, there will be an indication of what wireless data connection your iPhone has. A 3G connection is designated by "3G" in either blue or white, depending on the open application. The original iPhone is incapable of connecting to the 3G network.
2. Look at the design of the phone. The iPhone 3G has rounded, tapered sides and a black or white glossy plastic finish on the underside. The original iPhone had a flat, aluminum backing. This is the biggest indicator of iPhone generation.
3. Look at the software. The differences between the second generation 3G and third generation 3GS are more subtle as they retain the same look. Does the home page contain the Compass application? Does the Camera application allow you to shoot videos and auto-focus? Hold the Home button down for roughly five seconds. Does a Voice Control application appear? If yes to all these questions, the phone in question is the speedier, more functional iPhone 3GS and not the second generation 3G.
4. Look at the included headphones. The iPhone 3G headphones simply contain a microphone along the wire. The 3GS headphones contain a mic/remote combination with "+" and "-" buttons for volume control.
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