In my previous column called Podcasting, I had tried convincing readers using scientific hypothesis how the iPod was made to outlast any music storing-cum-listening device that the world has ever invented. With a memory for 40,000 songs and top music quality, Steve Jobs had made the ultimate music device for the on-the-move generation. This I wrote without realising that Jobs’ another baby, the iPhone, can do much much more than it’s sister.

On December 3, Apple’s iPhone took me and the rest of the world for a surprise. In Palo Alto, California, the Stanfort Mobile Phone Orchestra used iPhones for a performance that typically needs at least 50 instruments to qualify as an orchestra.

The ensemble connected their phones to amplifiers, attached on their hands, and the musical journey began. Some were blowing their phones, some were strumming them while others tapped on the touchscreen device. The iPhone was versatile, it replaced all instruments necessary for an orchestra — strings, brass and percussion were all heard in perfect symphony. And as if that was not grand enough, the audience joined the chorus with their own iPhones.

At first thought, it is baffling to understand how a mobile phone can be used as a different musical instrument. But everyone is wise after an explaination. It is just a software application that can turn an iPhone into drums, guitar, flute or even a piano. While it is understandbly easier to drum and strum the phone, giving it a character of a wind instrument sounds intriguing.

The iPhone Ocarina, a software application, can transform the 21st century gadget into a 1,200-year-old flute made of clay. All you have to do is press the four flute-like holes with your fingers and blow into the phone’s microphone — the sound will blow your musical mind away.

It is always the new kid that breaks all the rules and creates a better game. This musical break­through is made possible by a start-up company called Smule. A company of musicians and com­puter geeks with key interest in computer games. Ocarina was launched earlier this year at the emerging communications conference in San Fransisco. But few took it seriously probably because the chief creative officer was playing the theme song of Legend of Zelda on the iPhone at the launch. Or maybe because their field marketing specialist wears a white suit with a banner that sticks out from his hat that reads Smule.

But when the founders of a software company play the legendary song, Stairway to Heaven on their iPhone (turned into ancient flutes), it is time for the world to shut up and listen.