The cheap Chinese copies do not allow users to download all the cool applications App Store offers to the original versions

Bangaloreans who bought Chinese iPhone lookalikes are wary of the App Store, which lets genuine iPhone users download nifty little applications.

Many have tried to download applications only to find their phones getting locked.

"I checked out the applications but haven't downloaded any. My friend tried downloading them and his phone got locked," said Sayeed K,u00a0 a software professional, who owns a Chinese replica of the iPhone.

Some others are contented with the phone, and haven't cared to check what is on offer at the store.

"I've been using the iPhone for quite sometime. I have checked out the site but haven't really bought anything," said Kishan Kumar, a systems administrator.u00a0

Interesting

"Some applications are really interesting. I like the Pocket Guitar and DigiDrums," said Nikhil D'Souza, a musician. These applications help users simulate music playing on the phone.

A good number of applications are priced between one and three dollars.

"Not many are aware of these applications, but I'm addicted and so are my friends. I just can't do without some applications. I like FriendSync which lets me connect to Facebook," said DJ Andrew. "The store is full of US-centric applications. Most of them are free. But not many applications are made for Indians. I really would want that to change," said Paula, a techie.

Most awesome iPhone apps

Wired, the US magazine that tracks trends in the digital world, believes the App Store (https://www.apple.com/iphone/appstore/) made the iPhone "truly revolutionary, by giving thousands of independent developers the ability to extend and transform the device with their creativity."

This means the iPhone scores over its rivals by offering this huge range of useful, quirky, and some completely useless programs that you can download and show off on your mobile. One app now being promoted is called iFart, and describes itself as "a fart machine for all ages"!

The App Store offers about 10,000 pieces of software. Wired has selected 10 of "the most awesome apps" of 2008 for their "quality, innovation and breakthrough achievements", and the listing is in the form of a countdown.

10. Stanza A book reader that grabs free titles from public domains. (Free)