Pogue Says iPhone Buildup Rings True

The Times' David Pogue joins a chorus of critics singing the praises of the iPhone, Apple's "gorgeous" cell-cum-iPod. Reviewers love the gadget's look, style, software, and usability. But they haven't failed to pick up a few clear drawbacks, including the sluggish AT&T network, the lack of video and the clunky text messaging on the $500-$600 device.

Opinions are mixed on the phone's diaphanous "virtual" keyboard, which appears and disappears. Pogue calls the distinctive feature "frustrating, especially at first." An unexpected plus, meanwhile, is the better-than-expected battery life: A single charge can withstand 8 hours of calls. The bottom line: weirdos waiting days in line may have the right idea. (More iPhone stories.)