It’s what I’ve been reading all over the Internet this morning. How many pundits are saying that Apple has either disappointed or underwhelmed its customer base today with the release of the iPhone 4S.

Really?

Let’s take a look at things a bit closer. First, everyone knew we were getting a new phone today – and Apple delivered it. Customers wanted a phone with a larger storage capacity, better battery life, and a better camera. The new 4S has all of those. What doesn’t it have (besides a larger display)? A “5” in its name. This was to be expected.

Don’t believe me? Take a look at the phone’s history. There was first the iPhone, then the updated version of the original. A new design came with the iPhone 3 and was updated again with the 3GS. Finally, a new design arrived with the iPhone 4 (the phone I have).

Since this phone is only a year old, it’s quite stupid to think that Apple would abandon the design after one release cycle. The 4′s function and style is perfect (aside from the glass back). With all the time and money spent developing that phone, it makes perfect sense to have it around for another year. Furthermore, the number of products developed specifically for the 4′s body style make even more sense to have it around longer.

We will see the iPhone 5 soon. If the pattern holds, it will be next year. I even believe it will have that new design people want, too!