Apple introduced its new flagship iPhone 5S that uses a fingerprint scanner instead of passwords for iTunes. It’s also the first smartphone with 64-bit processing power, making it 40 times faster than the original iPhone and twice as fast as the current iPhone 5, said Apple.
As predicted, Apple also launched a new, lower cost iPhone 5C in five case colors at $99 for the 16GB model and $199 for the 32GB version with a 2-year contract.
Both iPhone models will be available for pre-order on September 13 with availability in stores on September 20.
The iPhone 5S “Touch ID” scans below the epidermal skin layers, essentially taking a picture of your fingerprint when you touch the home button. (The scanning software is built into iOS 7). So you can make iTunes purchases by using your finger as an authentication. And the fingerprint is the password for the phone.
The iPhone 5S also has a new motion sensor for use with health and fitness apps, an improved camera with auto image stabilization, and better color tones, as well as support of slow motion.
Battery life is 10 hours of talk time and 40 hours of music playback.
The new fast iPhone speed and graphics processing power is due to a new 64-bit A7 processor.
The phone comes in sliver, gold and grey at price of $199 for 16GB, $299 for 32GB and $399 for 64GB is on contract. Cases are $49 each.
The 5C has an 8 megapixel camera and 4-inch Retina Display with a new FaceTime camera and broad LTE support. It uses the existing A6 processor. Its case is made of polycarbonate plastic over a steel structure with no seams or joints.
The colors of the iPhone 5C cases actually match the colors of the new iOS 7 operating system included in both new phones.
The new iOS 7 includes an improved Siri with a new male voice that permits searches on Wikipedia and other sites on the web.
The iPhone 4S stays in the line for free.
Source: Engadget live blog
