Apple, the company that began the computer revolution, has remained a key player in the technology race. After all, we are talking about the company that introduced the iPod into the world. However, despite their leading role in the technology world, Apple has failed to establish their territory in the mobile phone industrythat is, until now. Now, Apple's cell phone is quickly becoming one of the hippest and most desired new 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.

The Apple cell phone has the ability to do much more than simply play music and make phone calls. With an iPhone, the user can text message, take pictures, surf the Internet, watch movies and videos, send and receive mail, and store iTunes. Some wonder how such a small device can do so much, and others simply appreciate the technology they have right at their fingertips.

Apple has made its cell phone available only at AT&T outlets and Apple stores in the United States since releasing it on June 29, 2007. However, people in other countries will be able to buy the iPhone starting late in 2007. Apple's entry into the cell phone industry was only a matter of time, and the iPhone has proven to be a spectacular success for Apple.