An In-Depth Review of the iPhone X: Pros and Cons
As someone who has extensively used the iPhone X, I can provide a balanced overview of what I like and do not like about this flagship device. This review will shed light on the aspects that make it a compelling choice, as well as areas where improvements could be made.
Pros
iPhone X, much like its predecessors, continues to captivate users with its cutting-edge features and sleek design. Here are the notable strengths:
Notch and Design
Notch Fans Worldwide
One of the standout features of the iPhone X is its notch. Despite the initial backlash, many users, including myself, find this design elements aesthetically pleasing and functional. The notch houses the Face ID sensor, allowing for a cleaner display and a more immersive viewing experience. For those who appreciate a balanced display without any intrusive cut-outs, the notch is a well-executed solution.
FaceID and Touch ID Comparison
FaceID: Seamless and Secure
The Face ID system is one of the most revolutionary features of the iPhone X. It takes a whole new level of security and convenience. With a 99.98% success rate even in low-light conditions, it is highly reliable. Whether you're using it for banking apps or unlocking the phone, the process is seamless. Additionally, not having to deal with unlocking tasks when the phone is face-down on a table is a significant advantage.
No Home Button
Gestures Make Life Easier
The absence of the home button on the iPhone X has led many to embrace the natural gestures for navigating the device. Multitasking, controlling Widgets, and launching apps feels fluid and intuitive. The Control Centre integration, while initially confusing for some, has become a second nature once you get to grips with it. The intuitive nature of these gestures makes the iPhone X a pleasure to use.
Cons
Despite its many advantages, the iPhone X is not without its shortcomings. Here are the areas that need some work:
FaceID Issues
Dependence on Positioning
While the Face ID works impressively in bright conditions, there are certain limitations. For instance, it struggles in landscape mode and in darker environments. Additionally, it can be inconvenient to have to type in a passcode when the phone is face-down on a table, especially when driving. If Apple could provide a shortcut for temporarily suspending Face ID, such as the "Ask To Unlock" feature, it would be much more user-friendly. This could save users from the hassle of frequently unlocking and having to look away from the road, especially in the car.
Battery Life
Wattage and Intensity Consume Battery
One of the major drawbacks of the iPhone X is its relatively poor battery life. After a few hours of intensive use, the battery drastically drains. This is particularly frustrating for heavy users who rely on the phone for work or entertainment throughout the day. Apple has prioritized features like Face ID and the A11 Bionic chip, which are power-intensive, at the expense of battery conservation. A more efficient battery management system would be highly beneficial.
Cost and Ancillary Products
Expensive Ancillary Needs
The cost of the Quick Charge charger and cable is exorbitant, adding another layer of expense to the overall package. Additionally, Apple Care is relatively pricey, with prices ranging from 29 to 99 euros, which is significantly higher than the cost of the actual components. While this may be justifiable for the premium quality of the phone, it is still a significant financial burden for many users.
Screen Refresh Rate and Storage
Screen Quality and Storage Choices
Although the display is stunning, it lacks the flexibility in screen refresh rates, which hinders the user experience for some. Responding to modern consumer needs, Apple should provide a configurable refresh rate from 60 to 120 Hz. Similarly, the storage options (64 GB and 256 GB) are either too small or too large, forcing users into unnecessary and expensive choices. A middle ground of 128 GB would be more practical.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone X is an impressive device with unmatched design and innovative features. However, there are areas where improvements could be made, such as battery life and ancillary product costs. Despite these drawbacks, the sleek design, Face ID, and intuitive gestures make the iPhone X a compelling choice for many. It remains to be seen how Apple will address these issues in future models.