Apple released the iPhone in 2007 with 16 original applications. The default application list has grown since to include applications like Voice Memo and Compass. My question is will it be strange for Apple to remove retroactive applications?

For example will we always need a Stock or Weather application now that it can be included in the notification bar? Or are people using the Compass application enough to really justify it taking up a permanent position on our device?

More importantly, can we completely replace the phone application and rely solely on FaceTime and iMessage? Sure we can rely on third party applications like Skype and Google Voice, but is it weird to think we can completely forgo voice calling completely, and instead rely on real-time video chat as default?

Can we get used to a world where you’re constantly face to face with those you communicate with globally, even when they’re strangers? It’s less a question about the technology, and more the social insecurities involved. But I’m certainly curious.