Apple's iPhone Event: The Recap

ByMike Moffit

Today was a much anticipated day: as someone quoted on Twitter, “it’s like Christmas for iPhone users.” And it kind of is! For the most part, Mac rumor sites had it right: the iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s were both announced. There are always leaked photos of the shells and guts of the phones before they are officially announced, but I think it all really comes together when we actually get to see the real thing in its true form, up on the screen.

Apple, in my opinion, nailed it with the colors: bright and vibrant. They also created a case for the 5c that comes in the same colors as the phone but with a grid of holes punched out in the back so you’re able to see the color of the phone underneath. This allows you to mix and match the phone with the case to create a fun color combination.

The 5c will be available in 16GB and 32GB and will start at $99, with the price of $199 for the 32GB. So does the “c” stand for — ‘cheap’ or ‘color’? In a(n unofficial) word: both!

The second of the two phones announced was the iPhone 5s. As rumored, the phone is now available in gold along with the same white and black options. But, the coolest feature of the new iPhone 5s has to be the Touch ID. The home button of the iPhone 5s now doubles as 500ppi fingerprint sensor: that’s it folks, we are officially in the future!

The Touch ID will allow iPhone owners to simply touch their home button to unlock their device (instead of swiping to unlock). Touch ID will also allow you to authenticate your iTunes purchases. Some might be a little weary of Apple having access to ones fingerprint but Apple has ensured the public that they will be encrypted and will not be available to third parties.

Another great features of the 5s is the new processor, A7, and according to Apple, is more than twice as fast as its predecessor. The camera was also updated going from 8-megapixel to a 1.5x larger active sensor area with a five-element Apple-designed lens with f/2.2 aperture. The cool thing about this is what when you take a photo, the camera actually takes multiple photos and picks the sharpest one for you to view. Wicked smart!

The prices and capacities are the same as the 5’s were: 16GB: $199, 32GB: $299 and 64GB: $399. The iPhone 5 is no longer available, but you can get a 4S for free when you sign a new cellular contract.

All-in-all, the anticipated products were, in fact, announced. I have a feeling the color phones are going to be a huge success due to the fact that people love color as well as a more affordable option for an iPhone. The 5s should also do very well due to the new technology it carries. Apple nerds rejoice!

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