New Iphone Leaves Students On the Fence

The iPhone 4S was released Oct. 14, and the device is making headlines, as four million units have been sold as of October, and it is currently Apple's fastest-selling device.

"I stood in line at the AT&T store for two hours," said sophomore letters and sciences major Cody Allison. "It's an outlook to the future. It reminds me of something from I, Robot; it was definitely worth it."

The phone comes equipped with iOS 5, Apple's newest operating software system, making the 4.8-ounce device compatible with the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPad, iPad2, as well as the third- and fourth-generation of the iPod Touch.

"Apple has a pre-existing structure of connecting its products, and with the iCloud, you can back up as much as information you can," said Maryland student Valeria Uriza.

In addition to the iCloud upgrade, the phone features Siri, an "intelligent assistant" created to help with everything from finding places and setting reminders, to sending messages and making phone calls- all by speaking directly into the phone.

In a trial in which users asked the automated assistant, "What is the meaning of life?" Siri replied, "Try and be nice to people, avoid eating fat, read a good book every now and then…to live together in peace and harmony with people all creeds and nations."

Some university students are doubtful of the new technology, as the digital assistant sometimes proves to be ineffective.

"I don't think I need it. The one that I have now has everything I think I need," said freshman Jackie Watts, referring to her fourth-generation iPhone. "The new phone isn't that different."

The new and improved phone also comes with an A5 chip, giving users up to two times more power and an 8-megapixel resolution, allowing for higher picture quality and more detailed images.

Although some people are shaky about Apple's newest gadget, the iPhone 4S introduces new features and upgrades, making the tool a must-have for many technology-savvy students.