iPhone 5 Release Date: Reviews Already In, Lightning Connector Biggest Problem

The iPhone 5 release date is just days away but already the first reviews are in, and they are a mixed bunch.

Although there have been reviews impressed with some of the new features and specs of the next generation iPhone, there have been numerous complaints. In particular, many reviews have complained about the new Lightning connector which is not compatible with many accessories including cars.

Like Us on Facebook

Walt Mossberg of Wall Street Journal and All Things D, has said that the new device is “bigger and smaller at the same time.” To explain, he means it features a larger screen than its predecessor, at 4 inches with a retina display. However, it is still significantly smaller than many other smartphone devices, and for customers who have gotten used to and enjoy the larger screens the new iPhone 5 will still seem a little on the small side.

Mossberg has said, “It’s great that there’s choice of phones that you can buy. But for my money, this iPhone 5 retains the iPhone’s title as the best all-around smartphone in the market.”

He was one of the reviewers to criticize the iPhone 5’s new lightning connector, slating it for not being compatible with many accessories. Furthermore he highlighted that users will not appreciate the $29.99 “lightning to 30-pin dock adapter.”

Even though Apple has boasted that it has dropped Google Maps for its own mapping application, Mossberg rebuked the change. He basically indicated that Google Maps was a far superior product than what Apple has produced, thereby offering customers a type of downgrade from what was available on the iPhone 4S.

Mossberg was not the only to criticize the lightning port. Engadget’s review has also highlighted that as one of the major downers, and the fact that it was not compatible with many popular accessories will not go unnoticed by new iPhone 5 users.

However, it wasn’t all doom and gloom and the Engadget review did praise the product for its “beauty” and “design.” The battery life and the new LTE feature was also highlighted as massive positives.

The iPhone 5 will be released on Sept. 21 and will be available on AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon. An unlocked version will also be released in due course for those wanting to use the new device on other networks, and an October release date has been touted for the iPhone 5 unlocked version.