Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone won’t ship until the end of June, but many cell phone users already think the combination iPod and smart phone is better than what they are using today. A recent survey conducted by Strategy Analytics showed that almost all of the respondents felt the iPhone user experience is superior to other products - without having ever touched the phone.

Strategy Analytics president, Harvey Cohen, commented "An overwhelming 90 percent of respondents gave the iPhone higher marks than their own handset and over 40 percent of respondents rated the iPhone much better across key functional categories - including music player, web browsing, voice mail, and phone call management - indicating real innovation in designing a user experience."

Since the iPhone isn’t available yet, the survey participants were limited to viewing existing information about the product features, which could have swayed their perception. The information that is available today all comes from Apple, and as such portrays the iPhone only in a positive light.

Despite the overwhelming positive response, survey participants still thought that the iPhone’s US$499 and $599 price points could be a barrier to wide acceptance. "While the iPhone ’Wow’ factor is impressive, our user panel indicated that challenges in pricing and positioning may act as a barrier to mass-market success," said Kevin Nolan, Director of User Experience Research at Strategy Analytics.

Even if the iPhone turns out to be no better than any other cell phone on the market, the study makes one thing clear: Consumers are unhappy with their current cell phones and are hoping Apple can offer something better.