14 DAY TRIAL // Lucky folks over at iLounge got a hold of Apple's new iPhone 3G and found out that it sports an extra, not mentioned in the official specs list ? a second proximity sensor, bringing the total number of sensors found on the device to three.
iLounge wasn't counting the accelerometer, of course. The website notes that iPhone now sports "an array of three sensors (two proximity sensors, one ambient light sensor) in a J shape to the left of the ear speaker." The reason for this, the reviewers claim, is because one sensor wasn't enough to achieve the desired effect, namely that of turning off the screen's light when the user puts it to his / her ear.
Apple felt an additional proximity sensor was needed, thus incorporated it to the left of the ear speaker, "moved from [its] original location above and to the speaker?s right," according to the publication. The two sensors are said to provide "superior face proximity detection than the original single sensor." In some conditions, Apple found, the single proximity sensor mounted near the speaker failed to function properly.
The new iPhone, naturally, boasts many more hidden features just waiting to be unveiled. A couple more surprises may still be in store for us from a hardware point of view, I'm sure. As far as software is concerned, with all the attention this device is getting, it may surprise even Apple at one point.
Besides the above-mentioned sensors, Apple's iPhone, just like the iPod touch, sports a built-in accelerometer. The device enables certain applications to work based on measuring acceleration and gravity induced reaction forces. Single- and multi-axis models can detect magnitude and direction of the acceleration as a vector quantity. Accelerometers can also be used to sense inclination, vibration, and shock.
Apple's new device is due out in 23 countries on July 11. It will cost $199 + a 2-year contract, bringing the final endorsement to well over $600.
