Yes, Objective-C is OpenStep C and is different than C/C++. It has pools of objects and does auto release of objects and the syntax is dofferent than C/C++. That's why on Maemo having C++, Java, Flash ActiveScript, Python, etc , programmers have more choices and can create easier applications.
Why the iPhone is more popular than other smartphones in USA is because CNN doesn't write about Nokia products, and others USA papers do the same. They created a myth around iPhone mainly because is an american product and they buy american.