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"iPhone 4G" redirects here. For the first iPhone with 4G networking, see iPhone 5.
Not to be confused with iPhone 4s.

iPhone 4
Black iPhone 4
iPhone 4 (GSM model) in black
DeveloperApple
ManufacturersFoxconn (UMTS/GSM model)
Pegatron (CDMA model)[1]
TypeSmartphone
Generation4th
First releasedGSM model (black): June 24, 2010; 15 years ago (2010-06-24)[a]
CDMA model (black): February 10, 2011; 15 years ago (2011-02-10)[a]
GSM and CDMA models (white): April 28, 2011; 14 years ago (2011-04-28)[a]
8 GB models: October 4, 2011; 14 years ago (2011-10-04)[a]
DiscontinuedSeptember 10, 2013; 12 years ago (2013-09-10)
PredecessoriPhone 3GS
SuccessoriPhone 4S
RelatediPod Touch (4th generation)
Form factorSlate
Dimensions115.2 mm (4.54 in) H
58.6 mm (2.31 in) W
9.3 mm (0.37 in) D
Weight137 g (4.8 oz)
Operating systemOriginal: iOS 4.0 (GSM model), iOS 5.0 (8 GB model), iOS 4.2.10 (CDMA model)
Last: iOS 7.1.2, released June 30, 2014 (2014-06-30)
System-on-chipApple A4[2]
CPU1 GHz (Underclocked to 800 MHz) single core 32-bit ARM Cortex-A8
GPUPowerVR SGX535[2]
Memory512 MB LPDDR DRAM[3]
Storage8, 16, or 32 GB flash memory
Battery3.7 V, 5.3 W⋅h (1420 mA⋅h) Lithium-ion battery[4]
Rear camera5 MP back-side illuminated sensor
HD video (720p) at 30 frame/s
1.75 μm size pixels
5× digital zoom
4 element lens
LED flash
Photo and video geotagging
Front camera0.3 MP VGA (480p) at 30 fps

Tap to focus video or still images
Photo and video geotagging
Display3.5 in (89 mm) diagonal 3:2 aspect ratio widescreen
LED backlit IPS TFT LCD
960×640 resolution at 326 ppi (0.61 megapixels)
800:1 contrast ratio (typical)
500 cd/m2 max brightness (typical)
Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating on front and back glass
SoundSingle loudspeaker
3.5 mm TRRS, frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
ConnectivityWi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n) (2.4 GHz only)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
GSM model: quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE
(800, 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Quad-band UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA
(800, 850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz) (800 MHz is not yet officially supported by Apple)
CDMA model: dual-band CDMA/EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz)
Data inputsMulti-touch touchscreen display
Dual microphone
3-axis gyroscope
3-axis accelerometer
Digital compass
Proximity sensor
Ambient light sensor
ModelA1332 (GSM model or 8 GB model)
A1349 (CDMA model)[5]
WebsiteApple – iPhone 4 – Video calls, multitasking, HD Video, and more at the Wayback Machine (archived October 14, 2010)

The iPhone 4 is a smartphone that was developed and marketed by Apple. It is the fourth generation of the iPhone lineup, succeeding the iPhone 3GS and preceding the iPhone 4s. Following a number of notable leaks, the iPhone 4 was first unveiled on June 7, 2010, at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco,[6] and was released on June 24, 2010, in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan.

The iPhone 4 introduced a new hardware design to the iPhone family, which Apple's CEO Steve Jobs touted as the thinnest smartphone in the world at the time; it consisted of a stainless steel frame that doubled as an antenna, with internal components situated between two panels of aluminosilicate glass.[7] The iPhone 4 introduced Apple's new high-resolution "Retina display" (with a pixel density of 326 pixels per inch) while maintaining the same physical size and aspect ratio as its predecessors, Apple's A4 system-on-chip, and with iOS 4—which notably introduced multitasking functionality and app folders. It was the first iPhone at the time to include a front-facing camera, which made possible Apple's new FaceTime video chat service, and the first to be released in a version for CDMA networks, ending AT&T's period as the exclusive carrier of iPhone products in the United States.

The iPhone 4 received a largely positive reception, with critics praising its revamped design and more powerful hardware, in comparison to previous models. While it was a market success (with over 600,000 pre-orders within 24 hours), the release of the iPhone 4 was plagued by highly publicized reports concerning abnormalities in its new antenna design that caused the device to lose its cellular signal if held in a certain way. Most direct contact with the phone's outer edge would cause a significant decrease in signal strength. Apple released iOS 4.0.1 to try to fix these issues, but were unsuccessful.[8]

The iPhone 4 spent the longest time as Apple's flagship iPhone model at fifteen months. Although the succeeding 4S was announced in October 2011, the 4 continued to be sold as a midrange model until September 2012, and thereafter as the entry-level offering in Apple's lineup until September 2013 with the announcement of the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c. The iPhone 4 had one of the longest lifespans of any iPhone ever produced, spanning close to four years and available in some developing countries until early 2015.

History

[edit]
Further information: History of the iPhone

Prototypes

[edit]

Before the official unveiling of the iPhone 4 on June 7, 2010, two prototypes were brought to the attention of the media, breaching Apple's normally secretive development process. Many of the speculations regarding technical specifications proved accurate.

Engadget leak

[edit]

On January 27, 2010, gadget website Engadget received leaked images of the unreleased first-generation iPad.[9] Unbeknownst to the editors and readers, these images contained two unreleased iPhone 4 models.[10] It wasn't until the subsequent Gizmodo release that they were aware of the complete contents of the images.[11]

Gizmodo leak

[edit]

On April 19, 2010, gadget website Gizmodo reported that they had purchased an iPhone prototype for $5000, and furthermore, had conducted a product teardown of the device. The prototype was reported to have been lost by an Apple employee, Gray Powell, in Redwood City, California.[12] Shortly after Gizmodo published detailed information about the prototype, Apple's legal associates formally requested for the phone to be returned to Apple, and Gizmodo responded with the intent to cooperate.[13]

On April 23, officers from the Rapid Enforcement Allied Computer Team (REACT) task force of the California HTTAP Program raided the home of Jason Chen, the Gizmodo editor responsible for reviewing the prototype, seizing all of his computers and hard drives.[14] The Electronic Frontier Foundation criticized the raid as violating journalist source protection laws that forbid the seizure of journalist computers, as well as the suspicion that Apple had used its influence as a member of the steering committee, which is charged with direction and oversight of the California REACT task force to push police into action in a way that would not normally be conducted for this type of incident. Apple had already received the iPhone prototype before the raid when it was returned by Gizmodo.[15] The District Attorney stated that the investigation was suspended, and discontinued searching through the Gizmodo editor's belongings as they determine whether the shield laws are applicable, and cautioned that no charges have been issued at this point.[16][17]

Taoviet leak

[edit]

Pictures and video of a second prototype were published on a Vietnamese website, Taoviet, on May 12, 2010.[18] It was almost identical to the first, and used an A4 chip manufactured by Apple.[19] The website purchased the prototype for $4,000.[20] DigiTimes reported that the screen resolution of the new phone was 960-by-640, which was confirmed by Apple at the iPhone 4's official announcement.

Release

[edit]
Steve Jobs presenting the iPhone 4 in 2010

The iPhone 4 was available for pre-order on June 15, 2010.[21] Customers attempting to pre-order the iPhone 4 reported problems with the pre-order process on the US and UK online Apple Stores, which crashed due to the surge in traffic.[22] The same issue was reported with AT&T and SoftBank, Apple's exclusive partners in the United States and Japan respectively, who suspended advance sales of the iPhone 4 as demand threatened to exceed supply.[23] Retail stores were also unable to complete pre-order transactions due to the servers crashing.[24]

Apple and its partner carriers received 600,000 pre-orders for the iPhone 4 in the first 24 hours, the largest number of pre-orders Apple had received in a single day for any device up to that point.[25] Engadget reported that at 20:30 UTC, all iPhone 4 pre-order suppliers had sold out.[26] 1.7 million iPhone 4 models were sold in its first three days of availability.[27]

The iPhone 4 was also released through Orange in Tunisia and was available in eight cities at the launch.[28] On July 30, 2010, iPhone 4 was made available for sale in Australia, New Zealand and 15 other countries with free bumper cases.[29][30] In South Korea, it was released by KT on September 10. In Israel, it was released, too, on September 24, through Cellcom, Pelephone and Orange. It was launched in Thailand on September 23 by AIS, DTAC and True Move, and in Malaysia on September 26 in Kuala Lumpur, and nationwide on September 27 according to the Malaysian service provider Maxis.

The iPhone 4 was released in South Africa on September 22 on the Vodacom and MTN networks, in very limited quantities.[31] The iPhone 4 was launched in Vietnam on September 30 on VinaPhone and Viettel, at first in three major cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, and then all over the country by the end of October.

The iPhone 4 was launched in India on May 27, 2011 by Aircel and Airtel.[32]

On January 11, 2011, Verizon Wireless announced during a media event that it had reached an agreement with Apple and would begin selling a CDMA iPhone 4 in the United States, ending Apple's exclusivity agreement with AT&T. The Verizon iPhone went on sale on February 10 and pre orders began on February 3.[33][34][35] The Verizon iPhone includes the 'Personal Hotspot" feature that allows a user to use the iPhone as a wireless hotspot, with up to five devices connecting at one time. The February 3, 2011, presale of the iPhone 4 broke Verizon's first day sales records for a single device.[36]

On June 24, 2010, Apple stated that the white iPhone 4 models were proving more "challenging to manufacture" than expected, and initially pushed the release date back to the second half of July.[37] There was a lot of speculation surrounding the delay of the white iPhone 4. Among the most popular rumours are those concerning the phone's internal camera being adversely affected by light leaking in due to the semi-translucent glass and the white paint.[38][39] Other sources report that the problem relates to Apple's inability to match the white colour of the front faceplate with that of the home button.[40] On April 27, 2011, Apple announced that it would be releasing the white iPhone 4 model on April 28, 2011, for both GSM and CDMA.[41] The release of the white iPhone 4 was carried out on April 28.[42][43]

During Apple's official unveiling of the iPhone 4s on October 4, 2011, it was announced that Sprint would begin carrying the CDMA iPhone 4 and the iPhone 4s in the US on October 14.[44][45]

Discontinuation

[edit]

In September 2013, after the release of the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c, Apple stopped selling the iPhone 4 in most of their stores as well as on their website. It was replaced by the 8 GB iPhone 4s.[46][47][48]

Hardware

[edit]
See also: iPhone Hardware

Display

[edit]
See also: Retina display

The display of the iPhone 4 was manufactured by LG under an exclusive contract with Apple. It features an LED backlit TFT LCD capacitive touchscreen with a pixel density of 326 pixels per inch (ppi) on a 3.5 in (8.9 cm) (diagonally measured), 960×640 display. Each pixel is 78 micrometers in width. The display has a contrast ratio of 800:1. The screen was marketed by Apple as the "Retina display", based on the assertion that a display of approximately 300 ppi at a distance of 305 millimetres (12 in) from one's eye, or 57 arcseconds per pixel,[49] is the maximum amount of detail that the human retina can perceive.[50] With the iPhone expected to be used at a distance of about 12 inches from the eyes, a higher resolution would allegedly have no effect on the image's apparent quality as the maximum potential of the human eye has already been met.

This claim was widely disputed. Raymond Soneira, president of DisplayMate Technologies, said in an interview with the Wired magazine, that his claims by Jobs are something of an exaggeration: "It is reasonably close to being a perfect display, but Steve pushed it a little too far". Soneira stated that the resolution of the human retina is higher than claimed by Apple, working out to 477 ppi at 12 inches (305 mm) from the eyes, or 36 arcseconds per pixel.[51]

However, Phil Plait, author of Bad Astronomy, whose career includes a collaboration with NASA regarding the camera on the Hubble Space Telescope, responded to the criticism by stating that "if you have [better than 20/20] eyesight, then at one foot away the iPhone 4's pixels are resolved. The picture will look pixellated. If you have average eyesight, the picture will look just fine".[52][53]

Camera

[edit]
The iPhone 4 is the first iPhone model to have two cameras. The LED flash for the rear-facing camera (top) and the forward-facing camera (bottom, left of the speaker) are not present in older models.

The iPhone 4 features an additional front-facing 640×480 camera, and a backside-illuminated 5 megapixel rear-facing camera with a 3.85 mm f/2.8 lens[54][1] and an LED flash. The rear-facing 5-megapixel camera is capable of recording HD video in 720p at 30 frames per second. Both cameras make use of the tap to focus feature, part of iOS 4, for photo and video recording.[55] The rear-facing camera has a 5× digital zoom.

Connectivity

[edit]

In contrast to Steve Jobs' announcement at WWDC 2010, Federal Communications Commission documentation showed that, in fact, the iPhone 4 contains a penta-band 3G UMTS antenna, not a quad-band 3G UMTS radio, as advertised by Apple.[citation needed] According to the FCC documentation filed by Apple, the radio inside the iPhone 4 supports 800, 850, 900, 1900, and 2100 MHz. The 800 MHz frequency, which is most commonly used in Japanese mobile phones, is not advertised as being supported by Apple.[56] However, the 800 MHz band is a subset of the 850 MHz band, which probably explains why the device was advertised as quad-band.[citation needed] The chip-sets were manufactured by Skyworks Solutions[57] and Infineon for GSM version.

As with most of Apple's mobile products at the time, the iPhone 4 also used the 30 pin dock connector as its only external data port.

The iPhone 4 is the first generation of iPhone to have a second microphone used for noise cancellation. It is located on the top of the unit near the headphone jack; the main microphone is on the bottom left.[58]

Gyroscope and accelerometer

[edit]

The iPhone 4 introduces a gyroscopic sensor that detects 3-axis angular acceleration around the X, Y, and Z axes, enabling precise calculation of yaw, pitch, and roll. The gyroscope complements the accelerometer, a sensor that has been present since the original iPhone, which detects the device's acceleration, shake, vibration shock, or fall by detecting linear acceleration along with one of three axes (X, Y, and Z). The combined data from the accelerometer and the gyroscope provides detailed and precise information about the device's 6-axis movement in space. The 3 axes of the gyroscope combined with the 3 axes of the accelerometer enable the device to recognize approximately how far, fast, and in which direction it has moved in space.[59]

Processor, memory and storage

[edit]
Apple A4 chip used in the iPhone 4

The iPhone 4 is powered by the Apple A4 chip, which was designed by Intrinsity[60] and, like all prior iPhone models, manufactured by Samsung.[61] This system-on-a-chip is composed of an ARM Cortex-A8 CPU integrated with a PowerVR SGX535 GPU.[62] The Apple A4 was also used in the first-generation iPad (released in 2010), where it was clocked at its rated speed of 1 GHz. The Apple A4 was the first ever mobile phone processor designed by Apple. The clock speed in the iPhone 4 was never disclosed. All prior models of the iPhone had underclocked the CPU, which typically extends battery life and lowers heat dissipation.

The iPhone 4 has 512 MB of DRAM. The additional DRAM supports increased performance and multi-tasking.[63] As on prior models, all data is stored in flash memory, 8, 16 or 32 GB, and not on the SIM. Unlike prior generations, the storage capacity is not printed on the back of the unit.

Micro-SIM

[edit]
An iPhone 4 A1332 with a micro-SIM card removed with a paper clip, showing its SIM card compartment

The GSM iPhone 4 uses a micro-SIM card, which is positioned in an ejectable tray, located on the right side of the device. The CDMA iPhone 4, however, the phone connects to the network using an ESN. All prior models have used regular mini-SIM cards. Depending on the operator, micro-SIM cards may not be available for all networks globally. As a technical workaround, it is possible to trim a mini-SIM card with a knife or scissors so that it fits into the micro-SIM tray.[64]

Design

[edit]
The iPhone 4 is constructed of glass faces and a metal rim.

The iPhone 4 features a redesigned structure, designed by Jony Ive, a design that would later be reused and adapted for the iPhone 4S, 5, 5S and first-generation iPhone SE. Most notably, the bulges of the back panel as well as the band between the front and back are gone and have been replaced with flattened surfaces. The redesign reflects the utilitarianism and uniformity of existing Apple products, such as the iPad and the iMac. The overall dimensions of the iPhone 4 have been reduced from their predecessor.[65]

It is 115 millimetres (4.5 in) high, 58.6 millimetres (2.31 in) wide, and 9.4 millimetres (0.37 in) deep, compared to the iPhone 3GS, which is 116 millimetres (4.6 in) high, 62 millimetres (2.4 in) wide, and 12 millimetres (0.47 in) deep; making the iPhone 4 24% thinner than its predecessor, the iPhone 3GS. Steve Jobs claimed it to be "the thinnest smartphone on the planet".[65] The reduced size of the device is primarily due to the externally placed antenna.

The iPhone 4 is structured around a forged, machined, and ground stainless steel frame that wraps around the edge of the phone, acting both as the primary structure for the device and as the iPhone 4's antennas. The frame consists of three separate pieces of stainless steel joined together by overmolding with plastic, with the gaps located on the top, left, and right sides of the phone.[66]

On the GSM version of the phone, the left section of the band serves as the Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS antenna, and the right and lower sections of the band act as the antennas for GSM and UMTS connectivity. On the CDMA version of the phone, there are two gaps in the metal band at the top of the phone. This divides the metal band into four different segments, which like the GSM version of the phone, serve as different antennas for connectivity. The top portion of the band (divided by the top left and right gaps) is for connecting to the CDMA network. The left portion of the metal band is for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS like the GSM version. The right side is not an antenna but serves to cosmetically mirror the left side and also to create a similar look to the GSM version of the phone.[citation needed]

The internal components are situated between two panels of aluminosilicate glass, described by Apple as being "chemically strengthened to be 20 times stiffer and 30 times harder than plastic", theoretically allowing it to be more scratch-resistant and durable than the prior models.[7]

In fall 2010, pentalobe screws started to replace the Philips screws used in post-repair units in the US and in production units in Japan.[67]

Software

[edit]
See also: iOS, iOS 4, iOS 5, iOS 6, and iOS 7
Further information: iOS version history

The iPhone 4 shipped with iOS 4, which was the newest version of Apple's iOS mobile operating system at the time. iOS 4 introduced a multitasking system, allowing apps to remain "suspended" in memory, perform certain operations in the background, and allowing users to switch between apps using an on-screen menu.[68] It also introduced FaceTime, which allows users to perform video calls between other iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Mac OS X users.

The iPhone 4 supports up to iOS 7, released in September 2013. Due to the relatively aged hardware of the iPhone 4, most features available on newer iPhone models are not available on the device; as of iOS 7, they include Siri, 3D maps and turn-by-turn navigation, AirDrop, AirPlay mirroring, live camera filters, panorama mode and certain visual effects introduced by iOS 7, such as the blurring of translucent interface elements, the parallax effect on the home screen, and live wallpapers.[69] While still subject to the same limitations, iOS 7.1 did bring some slight performance improvements to the operating system on the iPhone 4. iOS 7, specifically iOS 7.1.2, is the last version of iOS to support the iPhone 4. Unlike the iPhone 4s, the iPhone 4 did not receive the iOS 8 update due to performance issues.[70][71]

Accessories

[edit]

Bumper

[edit]
An iPhone 4 next to its Bumper case

Apple released a plastic and rubber case called the Bumper to protect the edges of the phone. The case, which also provided some screen protection, included buttons and holes that enabled switch and connector access.[72]

Apple updated the bumper with a wider volume switch hole with the release of the iPhone 4 for CDMA networks. The updated bumper is also compatible with iPhone 4s, the next-generation iPhone that has the same exterior design and measurements as the CDMA model of the iPhone 4, but with a SIM card slot as well.

Reception

[edit]

Pre-release

[edit]

Pre-release reception was largely positive.[73] The announcement included information that had not been covered by Gizmodo. Fox News commented that "seeing it in action is far more informative than staring at Gizmodo's photos of a busted test unit".[74] Rhodri Marsden of The Independent said that "aside from the introduction of face-to-face video calling, it's not a staggering feature set", instead focusing on how the device is "more powerful than its predecessor, speedier, easier to use and will make previously laborious tasks seem like a cinch".[75]

Steve Jobs demonstrating the iPhone 4 to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on June 23, 2010

CNET reacted to the announcement by explaining how it believes that iMovie for iOS was the "most exciting part of this year's WWDC Keynote". The article noted how the iPhone 4, unlike current cameras, can record HD content and then edit it from the same device, labeling it a "true mobile editing suite".[76]

Reviews

[edit]

Reviews of the iPhone 4 were largely positive. Walt Mossberg of The Wall Street Journal called the device "the best device in its class".[77] Engadget named it the "best smartphone on the market" in June 2010.[78] CNET gave the iPhone 4 a rating of 8.6 out of 10, one of the highest ratings it had given any smartphone.[79] TechRadar gave the device 4.5/5 stars.[80] Consumer Reports said the signal problem was the reason they did not rate it a "recommended" model, although the other tests ranked it highest among smartphones.[81]

Joshua Topolsky of Engadget described the device's industrial design as being "more detailed and sophisticated" than its predecessor.[78]

Technical problems

[edit]

Some users reported a yellow discoloration of the screen that disappeared after several days, which was attributed to the glass lamination glue that was used. It did not have time to dry fully before the unit reached consumers due to the speed of manufacturing.[82] Another issue reported by some users within days of the iPhone 4 release was that during calls the proximity sensor can be insensitive, so that facial contact with the touchscreen can end calls, mute calls, and dial other numbers.[83] Some users reported that, particularly in low-light conditions, photos taken on the iPhone 4 sometimes contained blue or green "splotches". Issues with white balance were also discovered, particularly when using the flash.[84][85]

Antenna

[edit]
A woman takes pictures with an iPhone 4, Havana, Cuba, 2015.

Shortly after the iPhone 4 was launched, some users reported that signal strength of the phone was reduced when touching the lower left edge of the phone, bridging one of the two locations that separates the two antennas, resulting in dropped calls in some areas with lower signal reception.[86][87][88] In response, Apple issued a statement advising that customers should "avoid gripping [the phone] in the lower left corner" when making or receiving a call.[89] Internally, senior antenna expert Rubén Caballero raised concerns to CEO Steve Jobs that the antenna design could lead to dropped calls.[90]

As a consequence of this problem, it was reported on July 2, 2010 that several iPhone 4 users were planning on suing Apple and AT&T for fraud by concealment, negligence, intentional misrepresentation and defective design. The legal challenge was started by a law firm, who set up a website to recruit disenchanted iPhone 4 buyers for a lawsuit against Apple.[91][92] Later that day, Apple issued another statement stating that it had discovered the cause of the "dramatic drop in bars".[93]

Apple explained how the formula it used to calculate the number of bars to display was "totally wrong". Apple promised to correct the issue and release a software update within a few weeks that would address the "mistake", which had been present since the original iPhone.[93] The New York Times commented that "the failure to detect this longstanding problem earlier is astonishing".[94]

Consumer Reports initially stated that the iPhone 4's signal issues are not "unique, and may not be serious" and it continued to mention that signal loss is a problem that is faced by the entire smartphone industry. It was such a problem that Apple made a formal apology onstage. The next day, the magazine altered their stance after encountering instances of dropped calls.[95] The magazine rejected Apple's explanation after conducting tests in a controlled environment, and comparing the results against prior generations of iPhone. It sarcastically pointed out that using a piece of tape to cover the lower left antenna gap was one way to fix the problem, but recommended that consumers who "want an iPhone that works well without a masking-tape fix" purchase the iPhone 3GS instead.[81] The magazine also tested the iPhone 4 while it was wearing a Bumper, a frame-like cover sold by Apple that prevents direct contact with the antenna, reporting that it did resolve the problem.[96] CNN repeated Consumer Reports' statement that a small amount of duct tape had proven an effective fix to the iPhone 4's dropped call issue.[97]

On July 16, 2010, at a press conference that included a private tour of Apple's antenna design lab for journalists,[98] Steve Jobs announced that Apple would provide all iPhone 4 owners with a free case to help solve the antenna issue and a refund to those users who had already purchased a Bumper. The free case offer would be valid until September 30, 2010, when Apple would re-evaluate the situation.[99][100] To get a free case, owners were able to apply via an app installed on the phone found in the App Store from July 22, 2010 to September 30, 2010. Jobs also announced that Apple could not produce enough Bumpers for all owners of the phone, but would source a supply and offer a range of cases.[101] Additionally, Jobs cited figures from AppleCare that showed that only 0.55 percent of all iPhone 4 users have complained to the company about the issue, while the number of phones returned to Apple was 1.7 percent – 4.3 percentage points less than the number of iPhone 3GS models that were returned in the first month of the phone's launch.[101]

Consumer Reports noted that the solution was not permanent, though a good first step.[102] However, because Jobs did not specify a time line for fixing the problem, and the offering for a free bumper only being a temporary solution, PC World decided to remove the iPhone 4 from its "Top 10 Cell Phones" chart and reassign it to a pending rating.[103]

Despite the negative media attention regarding the antenna issues, 72% of iPhone 4 users said that they were "very satisfied" with their iPhone 4, according to an August 2010 survey by ChangeWave Research.[104] The GSM iPhone 4 continued to be sold unchanged until its discontinuation in September 2013, while the CDMA iPhone 4 and all models of the iPhone 4S featured a tweaked antenna design to prevent the issue from happening.

iPhones in space

[edit]

In 2011, two iPhone 4 units equipped with a special application were taken to the International Space Station aboard the Space Shuttle on the STS-135 mission.[105] The devices were used in various experiments, utilizing sensors and a special app.[105]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

Notable movies shot with iPhone 4

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

IPhone 4

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The iPhone 4 is a touchscreen smartphone developed and marketed by Apple Inc. as the fourth generation of its iPhone line, announced on June 7, 2010, and released on June 24, 2010, in the United States, France, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom. It introduced several groundbreaking features, including the Retina display with a 326 pixels-per-inch resolution for unprecedented sharpness, FaceTime video calling enabled by a front-facing camera, and HD video recording with a 5-megapixel rear camera equipped with an LED flash. Powered by Apple's A4 processor, the device offered improved performance and battery life while running iOS 4, which added multitasking, folders, and unified inbox capabilities. The iPhone 4 featured an innovative design with a flat glass front and back sandwiched between a band, measuring just 9.3 mm thick to become Apple's thinnest at the time, weighing 137 grams. Its 3.5-inch widescreen display provided a 960-by-640-pixel resolution at 326 ppi, an 800:1 , and 500 cd/m² maximum brightness, protected by an oleophobic coating to resist fingerprints. Storage options included 16 GB and 32 GB models, priced at $199 and $299 respectively with a two-year AT&T contract in the , while an 8 GB iPhone 3GS was offered at $99 as a budget option. Additional hardware highlights included a 3-axis for enhanced motion sensing, GPS, 2.1+EDR, and 802.11b/g/n support, alongside a rechargeable providing up to 14 hours of talk time, 7 hours of talk time, 10 hours of video playback, and 40 hours of audio playback. The device quickly expanded globally, reaching 17 more countries by July 30, 2010, and over 88 countries by September, marking a significant milestone in Apple's mobile ecosystem.

Development and Announcement

Prototypes and Leaks

The development of the iPhone 4 involved several prototypes that were inadvertently exposed through leaks in the months leading up to its official announcement. On April 19, 2010, published images and details of an early prototype, which had been lost by an Apple engineer at a bar in , and acquired by the site for $5,000 from individuals who found it. The publication included a detailed disassembly revealing a device with a stainless steel backplate and flat glass surfaces on both front and rear, distinguishing it from the curved design of the , along with a slimmer profile and metallic side band. The teardown highlighted internal components like a larger battery and a rear suggestive of an improved , along with a slot and micro-SIM tray. This exposure provided the first in-depth look at the device's hardware layout, including its hints and noise-canceling microphone. This leak was covered contemporaneously by tech blog on April 19, 2010. Engadget had earlier speculated on the design in posts from April 17 and 18, 2010, including an article on April 18 identifying an iPhone 4 prototype visible but unnoticed at the time in leaked photos of an iPad prototype from January 27, 2010, which had been published by Engadget the night before the iPad's official reveal. These earlier reports fueled speculation about the device's design evolution, with the January photo providing additional corroboration by showing the prototype alongside the iPad in what was believed to be an Apple test lab. In mid-May 2010, a second prototype appeared on the Vietnamese forum Taoviet, showing refined details such as a visible , updated button arrangement around the edges, and an LED flash near the rear camera. The images, purportedly from a unit purchased in the U.S., included disassembly views of the and a "16GB" labeling, confirming similarities to the earlier leak while indicating late-stage refinements. Apple responded aggressively to these incidents, launching an investigation into the leak that culminated in a on editor Chen's home on April 23, 2010. Authorities seized computers, servers, and other electronics as part of a probe into the prototype's acquisition, though no charges were ultimately filed against or its staff. The two individuals who sold the device to faced misdemeanor charges for misappropriation of lost property but received in 2011.

Announcement Event

The iPhone 4 was officially unveiled on June 7, 2010, during Apple's (WWDC) at the in , . CEO presented the device as the "biggest leap since the original ," emphasizing its redesigned aesthetics with a flat glass front and back separated by a band, making it the thinnest at 9.3 millimeters. Jobs highlighted key hardware innovations, including the introduction of the —a 3.5-inch screen with 960-by-640-pixel resolution at 326 pixels per inch, claiming it was the sharpest display ever on a and enabling users to hold text at normal reading distance without perceiving individual pixels. The device was powered by Apple's custom A4 chip, which Jobs noted delivered exceptional graphics performance and up to 40 percent better battery life compared to the . During the keynote, Jobs demonstrated , the accompanying operating system update tailored to the iPhone 4's capabilities, showcasing features like true multitasking for third-party apps, customizable folders for organizing icons, and unified inbox for . He also previewed video calling, enabled by the device's front-facing camera and A4 processor. was announced to be available as a free update for and users starting June 21, 2010. Pricing was set at $199 for the 16 GB model and $299 for the 32 GB model, both requiring a two-year contract, with availability beginning June 24, 2010, in the United States through exclusive carrier partner . The device launched in black, with white following in April 2011 due to initial production delays.

Design and Build

Exterior Aesthetics

The iPhone 4 introduced a distinctive exterior characterized by a flat glass front and back, encircled by a band that formed both the frame and antenna integration. This construction created a sleek, symmetrical profile that emphasized clean lines and premium material contrast, marking a shift from the curved plastic aesthetics of prior models. This design represented a significant aesthetic transformation, elevating the iPhone from a primarily functional device to one renowned for its visual appeal through the integration of glass panels, stainless steel band, and a thinner 9.3 mm body. Measuring 115.2 mm in height, 58.6 mm in width, and 9.3 mm in depth, the device weighed 137 grams, contributing to its compact and balanced feel in hand. The glass panels, made of chemically strengthened , were treated with an oleophobic coating to resist fingerprints, enhancing the visual clarity and tactile smoothness of the exterior. The band provided structural rigidity while allowing for a thin 9.3 mm profile, underscoring the minimalist philosophy led by Apple's senior vice president of , Jonathan Ive. Button placements were strategically positioned for ergonomic access: the Home button centered at the bottom front bezel for intuitive navigation; the Sleep/Wake button on the top right edge for easy powering and locking; and the volume rocker on the left side, adjacent to the Ring/Silent switch, facilitating one-handed adjustments. This layout promoted symmetry and user-friendly interaction without cluttering the minimalist facade. Available initially in , the iPhone 4 offered a variant as well, though its release was delayed due to manufacturing challenges with the tinting process, finally launching on April 28, 2011—nearly ten months after the model's debut. The dual-color options allowed users to choose between a stealthy, high-contrast that blended seamlessly with the steel band or the brighter for a more luminous, modern appearance.

Materials and Construction

The iPhone 4 utilized chemically strengthened for its front and back panels, developed in collaboration with Corning Incorporated to provide enhanced protection over previous plastic designs. Apple described this glass as 30 times harder than standard plastic, making it significantly more resistant to scratches and everyday wear, while also being 20 times stiffer for improved structural integrity. The material choice contributed to the device's flat, unibody aesthetic, with the glass panels bookending a internal frame. Encircling the glass enclosure is a precision-machined band, which doubles as the device's antenna while offering critical structural support to prevent flexing and enhance overall rigidity. This integration of metal into the frame not only bolstered the iPhone 4's durability against bending forces but also allowed for a thinner profile measuring 9.3 mm. The band's corrosion-resistant properties further ensured long-term reliability in varied environmental conditions. Manufacturing of the iPhone 4 involved producing the glass at Corning's facilities, followed by final assembly at Foxconn's plants in , where components were precision-fitted using computer (CNC) for the elements. Independent durability assessments confirmed the glass's superior scratch resistance compared to predecessors, with tests showing minimal marking from keys or coins under normal use. However, the material's relative fragility was evident in drop tests from waist height, where impacts often resulted in cracks or shattering of the panels, highlighting a between sleek and impact toughness. Apple incorporated several environmental measures into the iPhone 4's construction, including arsenic-free glass, a mercury-free LED-backlit display, and components free of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and . The device weighed approximately 137 grams, and its packaging was made from 90% post-consumer recycled , rendering it nearly fully recyclable. Apple also claimed responsible sourcing practices, auditing suppliers to ensure conflict-free and other minerals, in line with emerging industry standards for ethical material procurement at the time.

Hardware Components

Processor and Memory

The iPhone 4 featured the system-on-a-chip (SoC), a custom-designed processor that integrated the CPU, GPU, and other components on a single die for improved efficiency. The A4 incorporated a single-core processor clocked at 1 GHz, paired with a PowerVR SGX535 () capable of handling and video decoding..html) This SoC marked Apple's first in-house mobile , fabricated on a by , emphasizing a balance between performance and power consumption. Memory configurations in the iPhone 4 represented a significant upgrade over prior models, with 512 MB of DRAM integrated directly into the A4 package, doubling the 256 MB in the and enabling smoother operation under load. This amount was unprecedented for smartphones at the time of launch, facilitating better handling of concurrent tasks. Storage options utilized NAND in 16 GB and 32 GB capacities for standard models, with an 8 GB variant later introduced exclusively for the revision A model to target budget-conscious users. In benchmarks, the A4 delivered approximately 35% higher single-core performance than the iPhone 3GS's S5L8900, as measured by , supporting enhanced multitasking introduced in —such as fast app switching without reloading—thanks to the increased RAM. However, under sustained heavy loads like prolonged gaming or , the device exhibited throttling, where the CPU clock speed reduced to manage and prevent shutdowns, a common trait in early mobile SoCs. The A4's power-efficient architecture, combined with the iPhone 4's 5 W (1420 mAh) , achieved up to 40 hours of continuous audio playback, a notable improvement over the 3GS's 24 hours.

Display and Sensors

The iPhone 4 introduced Apple's , a 3.5-inch panel measuring diagonally and utilizing IPS LCD technology with an LED for improved color accuracy and viewing angles. This display achieves a resolution of 960 by 640 pixels at 326 pixels per inch (ppi), delivering sharp imagery that exceeds the human eye's ability to discern individual pixels at typical viewing distances, paired with an 800:1 (typical) and maximum brightness of 500 cd/m². The capacitive multi-touch surface supports simultaneous inputs and features a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic on both front and back glass panels to minimize smudges and ease cleaning. The device's sensor suite includes a positioned near the top of the front panel, which detects when the iPhone 4 is held to the user's ear during calls and automatically turns off the display to conserve battery and prevent inadvertent touches. Complementing this is an that measures surrounding illumination to dynamically adjust screen brightness for optimal visibility and power efficiency. A three-axis enables detection of the device's tilt and motion, facilitating features such as automatic screen orientation switching between portrait and landscape modes. A key innovation in the iPhone 4 was the addition of a three-axis , the first such in a mainstream , which provides precise measurement of rotational movements to enhance and immersion in games and applications. Unlike previous models that relied solely on the for motion sensing, the allows for more accurate tracking of , rejecting linear accelerations for smoother user interactions. The display interface eschews a physical keyboard in favor of a software-based , optimized for the high-resolution screen to support efficient text input.

Camera and Connectivity

The iPhone 4 featured a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera equipped with an LED flash, an f/2.8 lens, and capabilities, enabling sharper still images and support for features like tap-to-focus and . This camera also supported HD video recording at resolution and up to 30 frames per second, with audio capture, marking an improvement in mobile at the time. The device's aided in video stabilization during recording, providing smoother footage. Complementing the rear camera, the iPhone 4 included a VGA-quality capable of capturing photos and video at up to 30 frames per second, primarily designed to enable video calling. This marked the introduction of a front camera in the lineup, facilitating real-time video communication over supported networks. In terms of connectivity, the iPhone 4 supported 802.11b/g/n (with 802.11n operating on the 2.4 GHz band only), 2.1 + EDR, and assisted GPS for location services, enhanced by digital compass, , and cellular data integration. Cellular connectivity included /EDGE support, with the model offering quad-band /GPRS/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz) and /HSDPA/HSUPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz) up to 7.2 Mbps downlink, while the CDMA variant supported EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz). The device utilized a micro-SIM card slot, adopting the smaller form factor for improved portability and compatibility with carrier networks.

Software and Features

Operating System

The iPhone 4 was released with 4.0 pre-installed as its operating system, marking a significant update from previous versions with over 100 new features designed to enhance productivity and . This version introduced core architectural improvements, including support for multitasking on compatible hardware, which allowed apps to run in the background while preserving battery life. The iPhone 4 remained compatible with iOS updates up to version 7.1.2, released in 2014, providing security patches and minor enhancements until support ended. Subsequent updates within the iOS 4 series, such as iOS 4.1 (September 2010) adding and iOS 4.2 (November 2010) introducing wireless streaming and full background app support, further expanded its capabilities. Key upgrades in iOS 4 focused on organization and personalization, such as a unified inbox in the app that consolidated messages from multiple accounts into a single view for easier management, app folders that enabled users to group icons on the to reduce clutter, and wallpaper customization allowing selection from built-in images or personal photos for both the and lock screens. These features built on iOS's Unix-based foundation, improving the core architecture for better app integration and user workflow without altering the underlying kernel significantly. Security was bolstered through the introduction of Data Protection, a hardware-accelerated system that generates unique 256-bit AES keys for files and leverages a device-specific hardware key stored in the A4 chip to protect user data even when the device is locked. This ensured that sensitive information, such as email and app data, remained inaccessible without the user's passcode, representing a shift from prior software-only methods. iOS 4 deepened integration, providing access to over 225,000 applications across 90 countries at launch, with seamless over-the-air downloads directly to the device. Over-the-air updates for the OS itself were implemented starting with , allowing wireless installation without a computer. The synergy between and the A4 chip enabled these features fully, including multitasking and graphics-intensive tasks, which older models like the could not support due to insufficient processing power.

User Interface Innovations

The iPhone 4, powered by , introduced multitasking as a major user interface advancement, enabling users to double-click the Home button to access a dock of recently used apps for quick switching. This feature supported specific background activities, including audio playback for music and podcasts, as well as (VoIP) calls, while suspending inactive apps to maintain battery efficiency and performance. FaceTime emerged as a seamless video calling application, leveraging the device's front-facing VGA camera to initiate Wi-Fi-based calls with a simple tap, mimicking the ease of traditional phone calls. Users could switch to the rear camera mid-call with another tap, facilitating shared views during conversations, and the interface supported both portrait and landscape orientations for natural interaction. With the 4.1 update, integrated social networking into gaming, providing a dedicated app for discovering friends, issuing multiplayer game invitations, competing on leaderboards, and unlocking achievements to track progress across titles. Developers accessed new APIs to incorporate these features, fostering a community-driven experience without requiring users to leave their games. Spotlight search offered unified querying across apps, contacts, calendars, emails, and media, accessible by swiping left on the or using the search bar, with results categorized for easy navigation and integration of web searches via default engines like . This system-wide tool reduced navigation friction, allowing users to locate content instantly without opening individual apps. iOS 4 enhanced notification handling by introducing local notifications, enabling apps to schedule and deliver alerts independently of a server, such as timed reminders or event-based prompts, while expanding push notification support for third-party apps to run in the background via multitasking. These improvements allowed more timely and app-specific alerts without the centralized pull-down shade of later versions. Accessibility innovations included , a gesture-based that audibly described interface elements and supported navigation via multi-finger gestures for visually impaired users, alongside options for larger dynamic text sizes adjustable across apps to improve readability for those with low vision. These features built on prior support but gained enhanced integration with the iPhone 4's and sensors for precise control.

Release and Availability

Launch Timeline

The iPhone 4 was first made available in the United States on June 24, 2010, exclusively through AT&T's network, with pre-orders reaching 600,000 units in the initial 24 hours, leading to widespread shortages and long lines at retail stores. High demand quickly outpaced initial production, resulting in delays as Apple ramped up manufacturing to meet global expectations. On the same launch date, the device rolled out internationally to the , , , and , marking the initial wave of availability beyond the US. This was followed by an expansion on July 30, 2010, to 17 additional countries including , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and . Apple planned for the iPhone 4 to be available in 88 countries by the end of September 2010 through its distribution partners. The iPhone 4 launched in a variant for global compatibility, with a CDMA version introduced later in the United States on February 10, 2011, via Verizon to support that carrier's network. These variants maintained the core design but adapted antenna configurations for respective cellular standards, amid ongoing efforts to address production bottlenecks from the initial surge in demand.

Pricing and Distribution

In the United States, the iPhone 4 was initially offered exclusively through under a carrier model, requiring a two-year service contract. The 16 GB model was priced at $199, while the 32 GB model cost $299, reflecting significant discounts subsidized by the carrier to encourage long-term subscriptions. For customers opting out of the contract, unsubsidized prices were $599 for the 16 GB version and $699 for the 32 GB version, but these models were locked to 's network at launch. Unlocked models for use on other compatible networks without contract became available for purchase in the United States starting in June 2011 at $649 for 16 GB and $749 for 32 GB. Distribution channels emphasized a mix of physical and online retail to manage high demand. The device was available for purchase at Apple Retail Stores and corporate stores, with s opening online through Apple's website and 's platform starting June 15, 2010, ahead of the June 24 launch. Due to overwhelming volume exceeding 600,000 units in the first day, stores initially prioritized fulfilling online reservations over walk-in sales. In early 2011, distribution expanded to Verizon stores following the end of 's exclusivity, introducing a CDMA variant while maintaining the same pricing structure. Internationally, pricing varied by region and typically reflected unsubsidized, SIM-free models without carrier contracts, leading to higher costs compared to the U.S. subsidized rates. In , for example, the 16 GB model retailed for €629 in countries like , while the 32 GB version was €739, available through Apple Stores and local carriers such as Orange and . To address early antenna reception concerns, Apple implemented a free case program for all iPhone 4 purchasers, bundling official Bumper cases or select third-party alternatives at no additional cost through September 30, 2010. Eligible customers could order via a dedicated Apple app, receiving one of several rubberized bumper designs that encircled the device's edges for improved signal handling. This initiative also included refunds for prior Bumper purchases, effectively distributing protective accessories to mitigate hardware issues without altering the core pricing or sales channels.

Reception and Sales

Critical Reviews

The iPhone 4 garnered significant acclaim for its Retina Display, which delivered exceptional sharpness at 326 pixels per inch, rendering text, images, and videos with remarkable clarity that surpassed previous smartphone screens. David Pogue of The New York Times praised the display's pixel density, noting it made reading and viewing content far more enjoyable than on competitors. The device's build quality also drew widespread admiration, featuring a premium combination of chemically strengthened glass and stainless steel that created a slim, elegant form factor weighing just 4.8 ounces. Pogue described the construction as "beautiful" and akin to a luxury product, emphasizing its refined aesthetics and durability against everyday wear. Engadget delivered a highly positive assessment for its innovative blend of hardware advancements like the A4 processor and , alongside 4's multitasking capabilities, positioning it as the top available at launch. However, the review highlighted early concerns with signal reception, reporting occasional connection drops in dense urban environments like , though fewer than on the . echoed the innovation praise, commending the for immersive gaming experiences and for seamless video calling, but critiqued the antenna design for potential signal degradation when gripping the phone in certain ways. Critics noted mixed results on battery life, with Apple's claims of up to 7 hours of talk time holding up in moderate use but reports emerging of quicker drain during intensive tasks like multitasking or high-brightness video playback. The HD video recording capability was generally well-regarded for its crisp output and tap-to-focus feature, yet reviewers like those at found it middling compared to dedicated camcorders, with issues like overexposure in bright conditions and no support for full resolution that some emerging Android devices hinted at in future iterations. In comparisons to Android rivals such as the , the iPhone 4 stood out for the ecosystem's maturity, boasting over 225,000 apps in the that provided a more intuitive and expansive software environment than Android's roughly 70,000 offerings at the time. Digital Trends highlighted this app advantage as a key edge, enabling smoother integration and broader functionality despite the Evo's superior connectivity and larger screen. Overall, professional reviews positioned the iPhone 4 as a benchmark for design and performance, though not without acknowledging areas for refinement in endurance and connectivity.

Commercial Performance

The iPhone 4 demonstrated exceptional commercial performance immediately following its launch, with Apple announcing sales of over 1.7 million units in the first three days after its debut on June 24, 2010. This figure marked a significant increase compared to previous models and underscored the device's strong initial demand, driven by its innovative design and features. The iPhone 4 itself sold over 100 million units globally during its lifetime. By the end of Apple's fiscal 2011 (September 2011), cumulative sales had reached approximately 174 million units since the product's inception, with the iPhone 4 playing a pivotal role in this growth following its mid-2010 release. The device's success bolstered Apple's position in the global smartphone market, contributing to a market share of about 15.7% for iOS in 2010 according to research, up from 14.4% the previous year. This growth reflected the iPhone 4's appeal in key international markets and helped solidify Apple's leadership among premium smartphone vendors. In the United States, the iPhone 4 further strengthened Apple's dominance, capturing over 25% of the smartphone market by late 2010 as reported by , with particularly high adoption rates among carriers like where it accounted for more than 80% of new smartphone activations in some periods. Economically, the iPhone 4 was instrumental in driving Apple's revenue to a record $108.2 billion for fiscal , a 66% increase from the prior year's $65.2 billion, with iPhone sales comprising the largest portion of this total. The surge in iPhone 4 adoption also fueled the broader app economy, as cumulative downloads reached 10 billion in January and exceeded 15 billion by July .

Issues and Resolutions

Antenna Design Flaws

The iPhone 4 featured an innovative antenna integrated into its band, which served as both the structural frame and the external antenna for cellular, , , and . This divided the band into segments separated by insulating gaps, allowing multiple antennas to operate within the single structure. However, when users gripped the phone in the lower left corner—specifically bridging the gap between the black strip and the metal band with their hand—it created an unintended tuning effect on the cellular antenna, detuning it from its optimal and causing a significant drop in signal strength, often resulting in dropped calls or loss of service. Independent tests confirmed that this "" could reduce signal by up to 10-24 dB in some cases, far exceeding typical in other smartphones. The problem, quickly termed "Antennagate" by media and consumers, emerged within days of the iPhone 4's June 24, launch and drew widespread scrutiny from reviewers and users reporting inconsistent reception. In response, Apple issued a public letter on July 2, , attributing part of the perceived issue to an inaccurate signal bar formula that overstated strength by up to two bars across all models. On July 16, , CEO held a at Apple's headquarters, admitting the design flaw while emphasizing that all smartphones experience some hand-induced ; he announced that Apple would provide free bumper cases to all iPhone 4 purchasers through September 30, , to prevent direct skin contact with the antenna gap. To address the signal display inaccuracy, Apple released iOS 4.1 on September 8, 2010, which recalibrated the algorithm for more precise bar representation based on actual received signal strength, reducing overestimation and better reflecting real-world performance. A 2025 analysis revealed that this fix involved a 20-byte modification to the signal strength in the CommCenter binary, smoothing bar transitions and adjusting thresholds to better reflect actual performance without sharp drops. This update, along with the earlier iOS 4.0.1 patch, helped mitigate user confusion but did not alter the underlying hardware sensitivity. Legal fallout included multiple class-action lawsuits alleging defective design and misleading marketing; in February 2012, Apple settled the primary U.S. case, agreeing to pay $15 cash or provide a free replacement bumper case to any iPhone 4 owner who purchased before , 2012, and filed a claim, without admitting liability. The settlement, approved by a federal court, distributed payments to over 20 million eligible users by mid-2013.

Other Hardware Problems

Users reported frequent failures with the iPhone 4's , which often failed to detect when the device was held to the ear during calls, resulting in the screen remaining illuminated and enabling accidental touches such as cheek dialing, muting, or ending calls. These issues were attributed to both software calibration problems and hardware defects in the sensor assembly, leading some users to seek replacements of the sensor flex cable. Apple addressed many cases through repairs or full device replacements, particularly when the malfunction persisted after software updates. Another notable defect involved a yellow tint appearing on the iPhone 4's display, caused by residue from the or incomplete curing of the used to bond the glass layers. This discoloration affected the color accuracy, making whites appear warmer or creamier compared to unaffected units. Apple acknowledged the issue and offered free screen replacements for impacted devices through their service centers, with many users reporting resolution after the procedure. The sleep/wake button on the iPhone 4 demonstrated reduced durability over time, with reports of it sticking or becoming unresponsive after prolonged use due to wear on the mechanical switch or debris accumulation. Apple provided repairs under the standard one-year at no cost, while out-of-warranty fixes typically involved a full device replacement for approximately $149, as targeted button repairs were not offered. Battery drain issues emerged shortly after the iPhone 4's launch with 4.0, stemming from software bugs that caused excessive power consumption even during idle periods. Apple resolved this through subsequent updates, notably 4.0.1, which optimized and significantly improved battery life for affected users. In response to these hardware concerns, Apple initiated free repair programs for eligible iPhone 4 units in 2010 and 2011, covering replacements for failures, yellow-tinted displays, and button malfunctions when defects were confirmed within the period or under extended service provisions. These programs ensured that impacted devices received hardware fixes without additional charge, helping to maintain user satisfaction amid early production challenges.

Accessories and Ecosystem

Official Peripherals

Apple released several official peripherals designed specifically for the iPhone 4, focusing on protection, charging, audio, and video output to complement its 30-pin and glass-backed design. The iPhone 4 Bumper, introduced alongside the device in June 2010, served as a protective case made from a combination of rubber and molded plastic with metal buttons for volume and power controls. Available in colors including black, white, blue, green, orange, and pink, the Bumper wrapped around the device's antenna band to shield the edges and glass surfaces from impacts while preventing signal interference caused by direct contact with the antenna. In response to reported antenna issues, Apple offered free Bumpers to all iPhone 4 owners for units purchased through September 30, 2010. For charging and media connectivity, Apple provided the iPhone 4 Dock, a dedicated compatible with the device's flat glass back and 30-pin port, allowing for upright charging and via the included USB cable. Complementing this were video output accessories, such as the Apple to Composite AV Cable, which enabled connection to televisions for displaying content at (NTSC) or (PAL) resolution, depending on the video standard, through the 30-pin port. Audio accessories included the Apple In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic, featuring silicone tips for improved noise isolation and inline controls for calls and playback, designed to connect via the iPhone 4's 3.5mm headphone jack. The standard Apple Earphones with Remote and Mic were also bundled with the device, offering basic earbud-style audio with similar call-handling features.

Integration with Apple Products

The iPhone 4 integrated seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem through , enabling users to sync music libraries, photo collections, and device backups via a USB connection to a Mac or Windows PC. This process allowed for the transfer of purchased media from the , as well as personal files, ensuring that content like songs and albums could be managed centrally on a computer before being updated on the device. Backups created in captured app data, settings, and messages, providing a reliable way to restore the iPhone 4 after a reset or device replacement, which was a core feature emphasized in Apple's setup guidelines at the time. Prior to the launch of iCloud, the iPhone 4 relied on as a cloud-based service for synchronizing , contacts, and calendars across Apple devices, offering push notifications for real-time updates without manual intervention. The individual plan was priced at $99 per year, and the Family Pack at $149 per year. functioned as an early precursor to , allowing users to access @me.com accounts and maintain consistent contact lists between the iPhone 4 and a Mac, which enhanced productivity by keeping unified. The service was phased out in favor of the free platform, with all accounts required to transition by August 1, 2012, after which support ended completely. AirPlay enabled wireless streaming of media from the iPhone 4 to compatible devices like the , supporting audio playback from the Music app and video content from the Videos app over networks. This feature allowed users to stream media experiences without cables, such as playing music libraries or viewed photos directly on a television, fostering a connected home entertainment setup within the . Additionally, the iPhone 4's compatibility with Macs and the first-generation extended to shared data syncing via or , permitting seamless transfer of calendars, contacts, and select app data between devices. A key aspect of the iPhone 4's ecosystem integration was its role in promoting lock-in through exclusive, optimized software like , a app released specifically for the device in June 2010 at $4.99. leveraged the iPhone 4's 720p video recording capabilities to allow on-device editing of clips into trailers or movies with themes, transitions, and audio overlays, all tailored to the and interface. This app, unavailable on earlier s or the at launch, exemplified Apple's strategy of device-specific optimizations that encouraged users to stay within the for enhanced creative tools.

Legacy and Discontinuation

End of Production

The iPhone 4 was succeeded by the iPhone 4S, which Apple announced on October 4, 2011, and released on October 14, 2011. To provide a more affordable option, Apple introduced an 8 GB variant of the iPhone 4 alongside the 4S launch, positioning it as a mid-range model. This 8 GB version remained available at a further reduced price point after the iPhone 5 launch in September 2012, when it transitioned to the entry-level option. Apple discontinued production of the iPhone 4 in September 2013, aligning with the launch of the and , which marked the end of for the 8 GB model that had been introduced as an entry-level option. Both the GSM and CDMA variants were discontinued on September 10, 2013. This timeline reflected Apple's strategy to phase out the 3.5-inch display model as newer devices with enhanced features took precedence. Software support for the iPhone 4 concluded with the release of iOS 7.1.2 on June 30, 2014, a minor update that addressed iBeacon connectivity and data transfer issues but provided no further major features or security patches thereafter. The device's A4 processor proved insufficient to handle the performance demands of iOS 8, which required more advanced hardware capabilities, leading Apple to drop support for the model. Additionally, the transition to 4-inch displays beginning with the iPhone 5 in 2012 accelerated the obsolescence of the iPhone 4's design. In November 2016, Apple classified the iPhone 4 as obsolete, ending all hardware repair and parts availability globally (except where required by law). Although discontinued in most markets in 2013, the iPhone 4 remained on sale in some developing markets, such as China, after that date (the exact discontinuation date in those markets is unclear). Refurbished iPhone 4 units remained available for sale in select emerging markets, such as and parts of , until mid-2014, catering to budget-conscious consumers where newer models were less accessible. For environmental disposal, Apple facilitated of old iPhone 4 units through its free global program, which includes secure data destruction and material recovery using advanced like the Daisy disassembler to minimize e-waste. Users could return devices via Apple Stores, authorized partners, or mail-in services, contributing to Apple's goal of 100% renewable materials and .

Cultural and Technological Impact

The iPhone 4's introduction of the , featuring a of 326 pixels per inch, marked a pivotal advancement in screen technology, delivering unprecedented clarity that exceeded the capabilities of contemporary competitors and compelled the industry to pursue higher resolutions in subsequent devices. This innovation not only enhanced visual experiences for users but also established a new standard for display quality, influencing design priorities across mobile manufacturers for years. Similarly, the debut of on the iPhone 4 revolutionized personal communication by integrating seamless video calling into everyday mobile use, accelerating its mainstream adoption at a time when such features were niche or cumbersome on other platforms. By leveraging and later cellular networks, FaceTime made video chats intuitive and accessible, contributing to broader cultural shifts toward visual connectivity and inspiring widespread integration of similar capabilities in global telecommunications. The device's versatility extended to unconventional applications, such as its use in NASA's mission aboard the in July 2011, where two iPhone 4 units, loaded with the app, supported microgravity experiments on the . These included the Limb Tracker for altitude estimation via imaging, State Acquisition for orbital parameter calculation using onboard sensors, and the Linear Flow Indicator for monitoring radiation-induced errors, demonstrating the iPhone 4's robustness in extreme environments and paving the way for commercial hardware in space research. In media production, the iPhone 4 empowered indie creators by enabling high-quality video capture and editing on a portable device, fostering an accessible filmmaking ecosystem. Notable examples include the 2011 short film Night Fishing, directed by Park Chan-wook and Park Chan-kyong, which was shot entirely on iPhone 4 and premiered at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the Golden Bear for Best Short Film, showcasing its potential for narrative cinema despite modest budgets. Music videos further highlighted this impact, such as "Solace" by Rana June, filmed over one day in New York City, and "Cascades" by flakjakt, captured across multiple Vancouver locations, both leveraging the iPhone 4's 720p camera for creative, low-cost projects that blurred lines between professional and amateur production. The iPhone 4's cultural significance was affirmed through accolades and institutional recognition; it earned Engadget's Phone of the Year award in 2010 for its groundbreaking and features. Additionally, the device was acquired by the in 2011 as a design object, underscoring its role as an exemplar of contemporary industrial and technological artistry.

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