Apple targets the mid range market with iPhone 3GS relaunch

Apple vs Android war is commonly known. But we are getting to see the signs and symbols more prominently now. Giving competition to the Android smartphones, Apple recently relaunched its factory-unlocked version of iPhone 3GS for Rs 19,990.

Sporting a 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen, iPhone 3GS is powered by a 600Mhz processor and is supported by Apple's latest iOS version 4.3. According to reports Apple has said that iOS 5 will work on iPhone 3GS, though all features may not be supported.

iPhone 3GS comes with connectivity features such as 3G, Wi-Fi, GPS with A-GPS support, EDGE/GPRS and Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP (headset support only). Available in 8/16/32 GB capacities, iPhone 3GS supports 256 MB RAM and includes a 3.15 megapixel camera with autofocus capabilities. On the not so bright side, the new version of Apple will miss out on features like Facetime and 720p HD video.

At the moment it seems Airtel and Aircel will be offering the iPhone 3GS 8GB, but it is highly likely that several others will join the race.

The move by Apple to slash the prices comes as a surprise further fueling speculations that Apple is dumping its products in India. Nevertheless the news brings lot of excitement to the budget users who would like to get a taste of Apple but were being deterred due to the exorbitant prices.

Earlier released through operators like Vodafone and Airtel in June 2009, Apple iPhone 3GS will be competing with the Google Nexus S LCD, which retails at about the same price of Rs 20,000.

Apple's recent unofficial announcement brings to light three key aspects of Apple - its fierce competition with android devices, tapping on the Apple interested consumers in India and finally its move into the mid-range market segment.

What will be interesting to watch though will be if mobile users pick iphone 3GS 8GB over iphone 4  or simply wait for iPhone 5 which is expected to release around September.