Apple has officially unveiled its next iPhones, releasing two at once for the first time ever and proving a long line of speculation mostly correct.
First, many insiders and news outlets speculated there would be two different iPhones and, sure enough, there is. At its launch event Tuesday, Apple first announced it iPhone 5C, a lower-cost plastic model that would be available in multiple matte colors.
Then they announced the iPhone 5S, the highest-end smartphone the company has released to date. It will be available in three colors: black, white and champagne gold, proving another rumor correct.
Another rumor the Cupertino, Calif. tech giant had been tight lipped about was the fingerprint scanner. That too is included in the new smartphone, but only with the 5S. As expected, the fingerprint scanner will allow users to unlock their phone and also work as an iTunes password when purchasing apps, games, music or other products from the online store.
There are always a few things that can sometimes get lost in the fanfare of a big launch event, so here are the truly new features of Apple's newest smartphone.
1. Control Center: a simple upward swipe on any screen will show the user basic system settings like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, as well as turning on a flashlight and using the calculator.
2. Camera and Photos: now users can choose to shoot photos in an Instagram-ready square format or the traditional portrait. Also new is the sorting method for photos.
3. Activation Lock: to use the "find my iPhone" feature, users will need to input an Apple ID and password, combatting thievery.
4. Multi-Tasking: has gotten a makeover and now it will be easier to switch from app to app while numerous ones are running. By double-tapping the home button, users can swipe to the different programs open and simply swipe the page upward to kill it. Apple has also added background downloading for updates in an effort to improve battery life.
5. AirDrop: In response to Samsung Galaxy S phone users, Apple has created a system for iOS users to share docs, photos and other files without having to open a text message or email.
The two new iPhones will be released on Sept. 20, with the release of iOS 7 coming Sept. 18.
