Apple launched its iPhone

Apple's hugely anticipated iPhone is finally a reality. As expected, it makes calls and supports a digital-music player that syncs with iTunes. The thin design is dominated by a vivid touch screen that showcases videos and photos beautifully. You'll also note a lack of buttons and controls as all menu navigation and data entry from typing messages to dialing phone numbers is done on the touch screen. Other features include quad-band world phone support, a 2-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, stereo Bluetooth, a speakerphone, e-mail and a Safari Web browser. Memory caps out at 8MB and there's no 3G support or wireless downloads, but the iPhone will garner interest simply because it exists. It's available June 29, exclusively from AT n T, for $499 or $599 depending on the memory size.

Despite some important missing features, a slow data network, and call quality that doesn't always deliver, the Apple iPhone sets a new benchmark for an integrated cell phone and MP3 player. Remember, the iPhone functions as an iPod as well as a phone.

Specs: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 (Quadband), Up to 480 min, With digital camera/digital player, 2.4 in x 0.7 in x 4.5 in, 4.8 oz