Apple announces iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and Apple Watch
Apple’s new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus boast much larger screens than the previous models.
Responding to a market that continually demands more, Apple announced two new iPhone models with larger screens on Tuesday.
The iPhone 6 checks in with a diagonal screen measurement of 4.7 inches and the iPhone 6 Plus boasts a 5.5-inch screen. Those are each significant increases from the 4-inch screen of the iPhone 5s. Also for comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S5 has a 5.1-inch screen.
However, despite the larger screen, Apple is keeping both models sleek with aluminum backs that curve into the glass fronts, similar to mini iPads, and unlike previous iPhone models that are flat with squared edges. The new phones are also thinner than previous models.
There are other improvements inside the new models, too. Perhaps most important to many iPhone users will be an updated camera that features 8 megapixels, an improved sensor and faster auto-focus feature. For videos there’s a new slow-motion mode that shoots at 240 frames per second.
Both phones will also feature iOS 8, include an improved processor that is expected to be about 25 percent faster than the last version and longer battery life.
Both phones will be available in the U.S. on Sept. 19, with pre-orders starting Sept. 12. The iPhone 6 has a suggested retail value of $199 for the 16GB model, $299 for 64GB and $399 for a 128GB model, which is being offered for the first time. The iPhone 6 Plus checks in at $299 for 16GB, $399 for 64GB and $499 for the 128 GB model. Those prices are also based on a two-year contract.
Both phones are available in gold, silver or space gray.
Also Tuesday, Apple unveiled plans for its “most personal device ever” — the Apple Watch. With the smart watch, Apple is jumping into the fitness monitoring game. The watch will be able to track statistics for exercises like running and biking.
However, the Apple Watch is not just for tracking steps or heart rate. It will feature a variety of apps that will allow the wearer to respond to messages, check their calendar, get directions and even pay for products with another new program called Apple Pay.
However, consumers will have to wait longer for the Apple Watch, which will start at $349. It does not hit the market until early 2015.
