The IPhone is out, do you have one?

A much-anticipated new version of the iPhone has gone on sale on has already sold millions worldwide. People were lining up hours before the shops open just to be one of the first people to get there hands on one.

In an interview, Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs said he believes the iPhone represents a rare launch of a new computing "platform," as evidenced by a rush of iPhone software development by other companies. He said past efforts by rivals to establish new mobile software platforms resulted in mostly anemic applications.

"There's been nothing on a mobile phone a fraction as good as what's on PCs," Mr. Jobs said.

So what's all the fuse about?

The iPhone is an Internet-enabled multimedia mobile phone designed and marketed by Apple Inc. It has a multi-touch screen with virtual keyboard and buttons, but a minimal amount of hardware input. The iPhone's functions include those of a camera phone and portable media player (equivalent to the iPod) in addition to text messaging and visual voicemail. It also offers Internet services including e-mail, web browsing, and local Wi-Fi connectivity. Most of the App Store's software will cost less than $10. Epocrates, Whrrl and eBay are free! It was named Time magazine's Invention of the Year in 2007. So happy phoning!

(source:apple.com, online.wsj.com)