Customers display their iPhone 4 handsets at a showroom in Patna on Friday. Picture by Deepak Kumar

Patna, May 27: Youths of the city love hi-tech gadgets and it was proved again when more than 25 iPhone 4 sets were sold minutes after it was launched in the state capital today.

Sources said youngsters were flocking to the shops to get their hands on the latest model. Ashiana Nagar resident Neeraj Kumar, who bought an iPhone 4 today, said: “People use their handsets for a number of reasons — from downloading ring tones and games to accessing information on the Internet. Mobiles can be used for chatting with friends, for sending text messages and also for making or receiving calls.”

“Once, buying the latest model of mobiles was a craze but now people like me have switched over to the iPhone because it is more stylish and cool compared to other handsets. Of course, all the functions of a cellphone are available with this set. But iPhones are stylish as well,” said he.

Neeraj added: “I know it is quite expensive and not for everyone. But costs do not matter to people like us. We want quality and perfection, which is available in this phone. Do you remember when the iPhone was launched in New York? People queued up the night before and waited for the stores to open to buy the first mobile of its kind.”

Another customer Rahul Mishra said: “An iPhone is the third generation of mobile phones. Within such a short span of time it has become a major attraction for people of all ages. So, why should I be left behind? When I heard about its launch in India, I started inquiring about its launch in Patna. Today, I am the first man to buy this handset in the city. I am excited about it. My friends will surely be jealous of me once they see it in my hands.”

Two mobile phone companies, Aircel and Airtel, have launched the iPhone 4 in Patna. While the 16GB iPhone is available at Rs 34,500, the 32GB-model is available for Rs 40,900. Mohan Verma, vice-president (sales and marketing), Bharti Airtel, Bihar and Jharkhand, said: “This phone will create a space for itself. It will stand out in the clutter of smartphones in the market.”

Explaining the phenomena of youths going for the phones, he added: “It is very simple. Every one wants to go for a smart and good-looking phone. Earlier, people had limited options but the iPhone has made its mark.”

Mohammad Shamin, circle business head, Aircel, Bihar and Jharkhand, said: “The amazing iPhone handset, with its stylish looks, is attracting the youths.”