Apple Unveils iPhone 4S: A5, 8 MP Camera, 1080p Video Recording and More
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Well, we were all eagerly awaiting the announcement of Apple’s iPhone 5, with a sleek new form factor and a larger screen, but unfortunately you’ll have to wait a little longer for that. Instead, Apple released the iPhone 4S, which, while disappointing, does have quite a few impressive updates.
There’s no change in the form factor of the phone, meaning it’s the same size and shape of the iPhone 4, but the insides were completely overhauled to add speed and plenty of new features.
Here’s a rundown of what’s new in Apple’s iPhone 4S:
- Faster processor: The iPhone 4S has the same A5 processor that’s currently in the iPad 2, an update from the iPhone 4’s A4 processor.
- Dual core graphics: With the processor update and the addition of dual core graphics, the iPhone 4S will be up to seven times faster, and this was demonstrated with an impressive display of the upcoming Infinity Blade 2.
- Transmitters: The iPhone 4S is no longer carrier specific. With both GSM and CDMA transmitters, the phone will be able to be used in most countries across the globe.
- Camera: The camera has been significantly updated to improve its quality. It now features 8 Megapixels and will take much better low light pictures with an improved f/2.4 lens. The iPhone 4S also records high definition video with image stabilization. The volume control buttons will act as a shutter. The camera also features an improved illumination sensor for brighter pictures, better auto white balance, and face detection.
- Operating system: The iPhone 4S will come with iOS 5, of course, adding many new features like iCloud support, iMessage, and notifications, plus Twitter integration.
- Speed: The iPhone 4S can download data at a rate of up to 14.4 Mbps, while the iPhone 4’s max is 7.2 Mbps.
- Carriers: The iPhone 4S is available on new carriers, which means all you Sprint customers can now get your hands on a shiny new iPhone. It is also available on Verizon and AT&T.
- Siri Personal Assistant: Developed by Apple subsidiary Siri, this is a sophisticated voice command feature that allows users to open apps, get directions, make phone calls, find restaurants, set alarms, schedule meetings, and more, without moving a finger. The software understands spoken nuances so requests can be phrased in a myriad of ways. Furthermore, it takes dictation, can search the web for you, and will read your text messages out loud.
The iPhone 4S will be available for pre-order on October 7th, and will be in stores on October 14th. It retails for $199 for 16GB, $299 for 32GB, and $399 for 64GB. Prices are with a cell phone contract.
Apple also announced price drops on its iPhone 3G and iPhone 4, which will now sell for $49 and $99, respectively, with a two year contract.
