Apple iPhone 5 review: design and build [Epic Review]
The Apple iPhone 5 Epic Review is a long-form look at one of the most anticipated mobiles ever produced. It’s sponsored by JadoPado.com – your one-stop online shop for all things gadget related. Want to pick up an iPhone 5 just like the one we’ve reviewed? Click here
Yesterday we looked at the iPhone 5′s screen. Today, it’s all about the design.
iPhone 5 design and build
Glance at the iPhone 5 and it could very easily be a 4S: the flat edges and rounded corners are iconic to the point of being a little bit dreary. The back is where the action happens, as the glass has been mostly replaced by a panel of wraparound aluminium, leaving only glossy top and bottom strips.
On one side there’s a slightly smaller (and less substantial-feeling) lock/mute switch next to the recognisable volume controls, while on the other there’s a slot for the new Nano-SIM - if you’re planning to upgrade to the iPhone 5 you’re also going to need a new SIM card.
Pick it up for the first time and the reduced weight and thickness is rather striking. The 112g weight and 7.6mm thickness mean it’s neither the lightest nor slimmest phone in Gadgetland, but it’s not far off, and it is noticeably more pocketable than the Samsung Galaxy S3.
All told, the handset doesn’t feel that aluminiumy, certainly not in the way a MacBook Air does, but the quality of finish is exemplary, particularly around its diamond-cut edges. It looks and feels as though the iPhone 5 has been styled for stealth rather than showing off, but we suspect that will please as many people as it disappoints.
We’re torn as to whether it’s an improvement over the 4S, though. On the one hand, it’s a fresh look, and that back panel is drop-dead beautiful. On the other, the 4S’ extra weight lends it a more substantial feel, and we worry about how long the 5′s anodised finish will stay pristine. Let’s call it a draw.
Coming tomorrow: the new iPhone 5 Lightning dock connector
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