The point is that HDR brings out detail that wasn't there before. The non-HDR photos may appear to have more contrast, but HDR gives you the option to edit it later and have all of this extra detail.
Usually it looks like hdr doesn't only underexposed the dark areas, but even the light areas are lighter than original pictures like the floors or things/people who where lit correctly in the first place.
I am so impressed with the iPhone camera that it has replaced my point and shoot. Thanks for this thread, as soon as I have enough posts to "belong" I will look forward to sending along some of mine.
I love the Hipstamatic, it creates some great looking effects. I use it to take pictures of my pets and they look so quaint and from another era. Your pics look good.