The new iPhone XS and iPhone XR were presented today by Apple, during the now classic September event that the company organizes at its headquarters in Cupertino, California. As predicted in recent weeks by several technology sites, Apple introduced iPhone XS, an evolution of the model presented just a year ago, and iPhone XS Max, a version with a larger screen. These are the two flagship models of the company, to which is added the third iPhone XR smartphone that recalls the iPhone X in design, but with a smaller and less defined screen.
iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
iPhone XS is the evolution of the iPhone X presented last year, with an improved OLED screen in terms of contrast and the rendering of images, a more resistant glass coating and a more powerful processor. The screen is 5.8 inches, larger than that of the iPhone 8 Plus but with a smaller smartphone size, since the screen covers the entire surface of the phone. For those who prefer smartphones with wider layouts, Apple unveiled iPhone XS Max, a version of the new iPhone with a 6.5-inch screen. Aside from the display size, the features and capabilities of the larger model are the same as those of the iPhone XS.
Apple has been working to improve the sound system of last year's model, achieving greater sound definition. The internal A12 Bionic processor has been enhanced, especially as regards the “neural engine” part for the management of artificial intelligence functions. Apple's goal is to have the phone do most of the tasks, such as facial recognition in images, without having to transfer anything to data centers with more powerful computers. This solution, already adopted in previous iPhones, aims to reduce the circulation of users' data and better protect their privacy, says Apple. The system is also used for augmented reality functions, where virtual objects are superimposed on real scenarios with which to interact.
The rear and front cameras have been updated, with a new sensor and new algorithms for processing each shot right after the shot. The system also takes advantage of the processor's “neural engine” to improve photographs, based on the subject. On average, for each photo, 1,000 billion operations are performed before they are saved, a few moments later. The new “Smart HDR” option takes multiple photographs and with different exposure settings, for example, blending them together to create an image with more realistic highlights, shadows, contrast and tones.
The iPhone XS battery lasts half an hour longer than the iPhone X, while the iPhone XS Max lasts about an hour longer. Both smartphones can use two SIMs at the same time, using the eSIM standard for virtual cards, so the service will be progressively available depending on the telephone operators around the world.
Pricing and availability
The new iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max will be available starting next September 21st. The iPhone XS will have a price starting from 1,189 euros, while the iPhone XS Max from 1,289 euros.
iPhone XR
Apple has created a cheaper version of what we can now consider the iPhone X series. The new smartphone is called iPhone XR and is a sort of middle way between the iPhone X and the iPhone 8. The design resumes, on a smaller scale, that of the iPhone X, but with a 6.1-inch LCD screen and not OLED. The screen size is larger than that of the iPhone 8 Plus, but since the display is almost bezel-less, the size of the new smartphone is smaller.
Many of the features of the new iPhone XR are the same as those of the iPhone XS: there are facial recognition, a function to activate the screen by touching it, machine learning functions, the same A12 Bionic processor. The rear camera is not dual, so it cannot do optical zoom, but it still has the same sensor and lens as the more expensive model.
The iPhone XR are designed for those who do not want to spend or cannot afford the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max, but are still interested in some of their features and less in the classic models like the iPhone 7 and 8, which are still on sale.
Pricing and availability
The iPhone XRs will be available starting next October 26 in six different colors: white, black, blue, yellow, coral and red (“Product RED”). The starting price will be 889 euros.
Apple Watch Series 4
The new Apple Watches have 35 percent larger screens than previous models: the size of the dial and case have not changed, Apple simply took advantage of more space for the images by changing the shape of the screen to reclaim space from the frame. The maximum volume of the Apple Watch has increased by 50 percent, solving a problem for many users, who complained about the difficulty of hearing from the watch especially during phone calls or using Siri. The crown offers new tactile feedback thanks to a small magnetic motor, to make its use more realistic.
The rear of the Apple Watch has been redesigned to improve the reception of the antennas, both in communications with iPhones and to directly access the cellular network, for models with LTE. The watch is also equipped with a new set of accelerometers, which among other things can detect a fall of the wearer and, if necessary, make an emergency call (if the person does not wake the watch within one minute).
The heartbeat detector has been improved and has three new functions: it sends a notification if the heartbeat is too low, detects cardiac anomalies and reports them to the owner of the watch who can then investigate them with the doctor, thanks to two new sensors performs a electrocardiogram in 30 seconds and reports any abnormalities. Each electrocardiogram is saved in the Health app of the iPhone, and can be shared with your doctor via a normal PDF file, for any subsequent investigations. The system is approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the government agency in the United States that deals with food safety, drugs and diagnostic tools. Despite the new features and tools, the Apple Watches have a battery life of 18 hours, like the previous ones, says Apple.
Pricing and availability
The new Apple Watch Series 4 will be available starting September 14, with a starting price of 439 euros.
