Apple iPhone 4S Deals

Apple iPhone 4S explained

After months and months of waiting, the iPhone 4S is finally here. This page will talk you through everything that makes it the year's landmark handset release, taking in everything from its operating system and camera to the amazing Siri voice control app.

We'll also be detailing the best contract deals around to enable you to get the keenest priced iPhone 4S contract. And we'll be taking a look at which network is the best for iPhone 4S users, too.

When is iPhone 4S coming out?

The iPhone 4S lands on UK networks on October 14th. Pre-registration schemes have already started with some carriers for would-be buyers who will be notified that the phone for pre-order the minute it is available. If you want to be among the first to get your hands on the iPhone 4S, pre-registering your interest with a network is a great idea.

uSwitch Tech's update email is a great option if you haven't made up mind which provider you want to go with. We'll be keeping you abreast of all UK carriers' price points and contract terms as soon as we hear from them. That means you'll be able to compare a range of deals before committing. You can sign up for the email at the top of the page.

Which networks will be selling the iPhone 4S on contract?

The iPhone 4S is available on almost all major UK networks, including O2, Orange, Three, Vodafone and T-Mobile. Virgin Media and Tesco have yet to confirm if they are selling the handset.

Most networks are likely to offer broadly similar monthly allowances of texts, call minutes and mobile internet data for the same kind of price over an 18 or 24 month contract. In view of this it's a good idea to check out which other benefits a network offers. iPhone 4S buyers on Orange, for instance, get two for one cinema tickets, while Vodafone iPhone 4S owners benefit from free games and DVD rentals. It's worth doing your research to make sure you get the most you can for your monthly outlay.

Of course, the main factor when choosing a network is the coverage you can expect in your area. To check this out, use our 3G coverage checker so you can make the make a truly informed decision before committing to a lengthy contract.

Why choose an iPhone 4S?

In this section we explain in detail just why the iPhone 4S is so sought after and how it improves on earlier editions, with a full break down of exactly which new features are on board.

Improved camera

The iPhone 4S features an eight megapixel camera – up from the five megapixel lens on the iPhone 4 – as well as 60 per cent more pixels for crisper, sharper images.

Apple has also installed all-new optics to make the best of whatever light conditions you’re in and has minimised shutter lag. Face detection technology is on board too, so that even less able snappers can get great results.

Video has had a very welcome boost, with the iPhone 4S capable of recording 1080p HD footage to add a touch of glass to your mini movies.

Siri voice controls

Siri is an application that comes pre-installed on the iPhone 4S and allows you to use your voice to send messages, conduct searches online, make phone calls and set reminders.

Unlike previous voice command apps, Siri really does understand you and even asks you questions to best determine how to fulfil your commands. It really is like having a conversation with your phone and, like the new best friend it’ll become, gets even better at understanding your voice and your needs over time.

Touted as the iPhone 4S’ killer application, Siri is a fun, brilliant new way to interact with your phone that’s exclusive to Apple’s latest, greatest handset.

Dual core A5 chip

Under the hood of the iPhone 4S is the same mighty dual core A5 processor that powers the iPad 2. It’s this chipset that means the latest iPhone is twice as fast as the iPhone 4, allowing you to get to all your favourite apps and services in a flash. And it allows the iPhone 4S to handle seven-times faster graphics too.

HSPA+ support for faster browsing

The iPhone 4S connects to the internet over 3G HSPA+ network technology. More advanced than standard 3G, HSPA+ offers connection speeds of up to 14.4Mb, depending on location and network coverage. That’s twice as fast as regular 3G.

New operating system

iOS 5 is the name of the entirely new operating system that powers the iPhone 4S and adds over 200 features unavailable with the last version of Apple’s smartphone software.

New features include the excellent BlackBerry Messenger-style iMessage app, improved photo editing, a hub for notifications to keep you in the loop and better web browsing.

Better still is that for the first time ever, it means you need not own a computer to use your iPhone. Users can now simply download software updates, manage apps and edit photos directly on their phone and set up their handset within moments of purchase.

High density retina display

The iPhone 4S uses the same best-in-class 3.5-inch super high-density retina display as the iPhone 4S for pin-sharp images whether you’re viewing your photos or enjoying video on the go.

Improved battery life

The battery life of some smartphones can leave a lot to be desired. Not so the iPhone 4S, which offers eight hours of talk time on 3G and six hours when browsing over 3G. Video and music playback is an impressive ten hours and 40 hours respectively – all of which ensures that the iPhone 4S is an idea companion on long journeys.

Plenty of storage

The top of the range iPhone 4S offers a massive 64GB of storage – that’s as much as an iPad packed into the iPhone’s slim dimensions. It’s also available in 16GB and 32GB options, which still give you plenty of room for all your apps, movies, documents and more.

Cloud storage via iCloud is available too, allowing you to keep documents and presentations remotely and even keep them up to date across all your Apple devices. The same goes for music and video, which you can then access wherever you are in the world.

It’s a ‘world phone’

Inside the iPhone 4S is a chipset that enables it to be used on GSM and CDMA networks – the two largest network communications standards. That means you’ll be able to do everything you want, wherever you are in the world.

Want to find out more about Apple phones? Check out our Apple phones page

iPhone 4S alternatives

The iPhone 4S is a staggeringly good handset. But it's not the only terrific smartphone on the market. If the iPhone 4S is a bit out of your price range but definitely want an Apple phone, you might want to consider the iPhone 4, which comes in a very affordable 8GB edition.

Alternatively, there are a host of Android phones that might be right for your needs, including highly rated handsets in Samsung's Galaxy range and from HTC. Google Nexus phones are also excellent alternatives to an iPhone.

Interested in an Android phone? Find out more and check out contracts on our dedicated page