Apple, the company that introduced the venerated iPod music player, and began the home computer revolution thirty years ago, has remained a key player in the technology sector. Until recently however, Apple had stayed out of the mobile phone market. Now, Apple's revolutionary new cell phone, called the iPhone, is fast becoming one of the most popular and talked-about personal electronic devices available.

At the January 2007 MacWorld conference, Steve Jobs electrified the audience and the world with the announcement that the long-rumored Apple cell phone, dubbed the iPhone, was indeed in development. The iPod had already garnered widespread praise, and a large following. Folks were excited by the idea that Apple might do for the functional, but uninspiring cell phone design, what Apple did for portable music players with the iPod. The hype continued, and the rumors mounted, until the iPhone was finally released to the public on June 29, 2007. Consumers lined up for blocks outside Apple Stores in anticipation. By most accounts, the hype was in large measure justified as the iPhone has since garnered rave reviews from independent users and technology reviewers, while inspiring copycat designs from competitors. The iPhone, small enough to fit in a purse or large pocket, comes in three colors so far: white, black, and platinum. More colors and more features are no doubt in the iPhone's future.

You can do a lot more than just listen to music and phone with the Apple iPhone. Text messaging, Internet browsing, email, and watching videos and movies are also available on this device, along with listening to music. You may appreciate all the functionality squeezed into the machine, or you may just be in awe of its small size.

AT&T and Apple stores have had a monopoly on iPhone sales since they were introduced on June 29th. Only in late 2007 will the cell phone be available worldwide. Known for its ability to meet customer needs, it was not a surprise when Apple introduced its phone. Apple successfully leveraged its loyal fan base and innovative product development in introducing the iPhone to great success.