The new iPhone 6 isn’t simply bigger, Apple claims, it’s better in every way. The two new models, called the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are larger, yet thinner than the iPhone 5, and supposedly more powerful and more power efficient.
Apple describes the iPhone 6, which CEO Tim Cook debuted in Cupertino today, as having a smooth metal surface that seamlessly meets the new Retina high-definition display.
Wondering what else is new and different with the iPhone 6? Here’s a quick run-down of interesting facts and initial observations about the iPhone 6:
Price and Availability
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus will be available in the U.S. beginning 8:00 am September 19 in Apple Retail Stores. It can also be preordered online, starting September 12.
There are 3 options for the iPhone 6, starting at $ 199 with 16GB of memory, $ 299 for 64GB, and $ 399 for 128GB.
And for $ 100 more, there are 3 variations of the larger iPhone 6 Plus: $ 299 for 16GB, $ 399 for 64GB, and $ 499 for 128GB.
Size and Appearance
The iPhone 6 has a 4.7-inch screen, while the larger iPhone 6 Plus has a 5.5-inch screen (measured on the diagonal) — making them the largest iPhones yet. By comparison, the iPhone 5 has a 4-inch screen.
The new iPhones are also thinner than the iPhone 5, with a depth of 6.9mm for the iPhone 6, and 7.1 mm for the iPhone 6 Plus. That compares to 7.6mm on the iPhone 5 and 5s, and 8.9mm on the 5c.
The 6 is the first iPhone to feature a Retina HD display, which is known for its superior, high-definition clarity. It also includes an improved polarizer to give a clear view outside while wearing sunglasses.
The new iPhones are available in 3 colors: silver, gold, and space gray. While the colors are supposedly the same as the iPhone 5s, the silver and space gray versions appear in photos on Apple’s website to be somewhat lighter than before.
Under the Hood
The new iPhones come with the Apple’s new and improved iOS 8 operating system, which also becomes available for downloading to older devices on September 17.
Both models of the iPhone 6 use an A8 processor chip, making them run faster and smoother than the iPhone 5 and 5c which use A6 chips, and the 5s which uses an A7 chip.
As usual, Apple is also promising that the new version will provide longer battery power, addressing one of iPhone’s biggest faults.
Bells, Whistles, and Other Observations
Apple is also touting the iPhone’s improved camera, which protrudes slightly from its casing. It’s still 8 megapixels, just the same as on the iPhone 5 and 5s, but uses other technology for a better camera experience.
The front-facing camera resembles the camera on the iPhone 4 and 4s, and is reportedly “selfie-optimized” for people who love taking photos and videos of themselves.
The power button has been moved from the top to the side, and the iPhone 6 sports a fingerprint sensor home button, like the 5s has, for added security.
Another key feature of the iPhone 6 involves Apple Pay, a whole new solution (also introduced today) for mobile payments. Apple hopes its mobile pay technology will revolutionize the way people use — or don’t need to use — their credit cards.
NewsFactor Network
