Alongside the release of iOS 12, the newest update to the iOS operating system, Apple has also released new version 12 software that's designed for the HomePod.
The new HomePod software will be installed automatically on the HomePod after you update to iOS 11.4, but you can also manually update and check your software version by following the instructions in our HomePod software how to.
As Apple CEO Tim Cook said during the company's "Gather Round" event last Wednesday, the software update introduces several new features that HomePod users have been hoping for since the speaker was first released back in February.
The update lets you use Siri to search for your favorite songs using song lyrics, and it lets you create multiple timers. It also allows you to make and receive phone calls right from the HomePod.
The HomePod could previously be used as a speakerphone, but after the update, it will be able to be used to place and answer phone calls without the need to transfer a call from the iPhone.
HomePod will be able to ping your iPhone or any of your other Apple devices so you can find them in your Home, and it works with Siri Shortcuts, a new feature introduced in iOS 12. Apple's full release notes for the HomePod software update are below:
iOS 12 includes support for multiple timers, music search by lyrics, telephony and Find My iPhone. - Conveniently search for a song using the lyrics if you can’t remember the title (English only) - Create multiple named timers - Make and receive phone calls directly on HomePod, or simply ask Siri who is calling - Similar to Apple Watch, Find My iPhone on HomePod allows you to quickly locate any of your iOS or macOS devices with an audible ping - Calendar support to include all languages - View the network name in Settings
Apple today officially released iOS 12, the latest operating system designed for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch. iOS 12 is available on all devices able to run iOS 11, which includes the iPhone 5s and later, the iPad mini 2 and later, the iPad Air and later, and the 6th-generation iPod touch.
The update is available on all eligible devices over-the-air in the Settings app. To access the update, go to Settings --> General --> Software Update. It could potentially take a few minutes for the update to propagate to all users due to high demand. As with all iOS updates, iOS 12 is free to download.
iOS 12 is a major update that brings several new features and upgrades to Apple's iOS devices, along with some significant performance improvements. Apple has revamped the operating system from top to bottom to make iPhones and iPads, especially the older models, faster and more responsive.
Apps open more speedily than before, the keyboard pops up faster, and the Camera launches much quicker. Apple has also introduced optimizations for when the system is under load, making iOS devices faster when you need performance most.
On the iPhone X (and upcoming XS and XS Max models), there are new Animoji characters (Ghost, Koala, Tiger, and T-Rex) along with "Memoji," which are customizable, personalized, humanoid Animoji that can be used both in Messages and in FaceTime, plus there are fun new camera effects in both of those apps.
Apple originally planned to introduce Group FaceTime support in iOS 12, but the feature was removed during the beta testing period. It will be reintroduced later this fall in a future iOS 12 update.
Siri is smarter than ever in iOS 12 with a new Shortcuts feature designed to let you create multi-step customized automations using first and third-party apps that can be activated with Siri voice commands. Shortcuts can be created through the Shortcuts app, which Apple is releasing alongside iOS 12.
Apple built comprehensive time management and monitoring tools into iOS 12 with Screen Time, allowing you to keep track of how much time you're spending in apps on your iPhone and iPad. App limits can help you cut back on iOS device usage, and robust parental controls are included for families.
Grouped Notifications make incoming notifications easier to view and manage, while a new Instant Tuning feature lets you tweak your notification settings right on the Lock screen on a notification-by-notification basis to cut down on the number of notifications you receive.
Apple News has a new Browse feature, the Stocks app has been redesigned and brought to the iPad, iBooks has been overhauled with a new look and a new name -- Apple Books -- and Voice Memos has been revamped with iCloud support and an iPad app.
ARKit 2.0 introduces new capabilities like shared experiences that let two people see the same AR environment on separate devices, and persistence, which allows AR experiences to be saved across multiple sessions. There's also a new Apple-built Measure app for measuring objects using AR functionality.
iOS 12 includes a revamped and rebuilt Maps app that uses a new Apple-designed Maps engine that displays foliage, pools, buildings, pedestrian pathways, and other map elements more accurately. The new Maps also includes significant improvements to traffic, real-time road conditions, construction, and more, plus it lets Apple push out changes and fixes more quickly.
The updated Maps app is available in the Northern California area during beta testing and at launch. Following iOS 12's public release, Apple plans to continue rolling out the new Maps app to additional U.S. locations.
For a complete rundown on all of the features that are included in iOS 12, make sure to check out our iOS 12 roundup. Apple's full iOS 12 release notes are also listed below.
Apple today released watchOS 5, the newest version of the operating system designed to run on the Apple Watch. Today's software update follows several months of beta testing, with Apple having seeded 10 betas and a GM.
watchOS 5 can be downloaded for free through the dedicated Apple Watch app on the iPhone by going to General --> Software Update. To install the new software, the Apple Watch needs to have at least 50 percent battery, it needs to be placed on a charger, and it needs to be in range of the iPhone.
watchOS 5 is a significant update to the watchOS operating system, introducing Activity Competitions so you can compete with friends to earn points, reach fitness goals, and win awards. There's a new Walkie-Talkie app with push-to-talk functionality for quickly communicating with the people you talk to most, and auto workout detection has been included to make it easier to start and stop workouts if you forget to do it yourself.
Siri Shortcuts, the new iOS 12 feature that allows you to create Siri-activated automations and shortcuts with both first and third-party apps, is available on Apple Watch through an improved Siri watch face that shows more information than ever.
The Siri watch face offers up predictive and proactive Shortcut suggestions based on your personal routines and the time of day, while Maps integration lets you see turn-by-turn directions and estimated travel times. Heart rate measurements like resting rate, walking average, and recovery rate are now displayed on the Siri watch face, as are live sports scores and info on upcoming games.
On newer Apple Watch models, you no longer need to hold down the Digital Crown to activate Siri thanks to a new built-in "Raise to Speak" feature that lets you speak right into your wrist, and there's a dedicated Podcasts app for listening to Podcasts on Apple Watch.
There are several new watch faces available in watchOS 5, including a Breathe face for walking you through stress-relieving breathing exercises, new motion faces that animate when your wrist is raised (Fire & Water, Vapor, and Liquid Metal), and options to display curated moments from your photo library on the Photos watch face. There are also new complications for Podcasts and Walkie-Talkie.
iOS 12 features that include grouped notifications, Deliver Quietly, Instant Tuning, and Do Not Disturb have been expanded to the Apple Watch, and there are options for getting a notification if your heart rate falls below a specified threshold during a 10-minute period of inactivity.
Other new features include new Workout types that include Yoga and Hiking, new features for runners, WebKit support for viewing some web content on Apple Watch, metrics like UV index, wind speed, and air quality in the Weather app, an option to answer a FaceTime video call as audio on Apple Watch, and an updated interface for choosing emoji in Mail and Messages.
The watchOS 5 update runs on all Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Apple Watch models, but it is not available for the first-generation "Series 0" Apple Watch models.
Apple today released tvOS 12, the latest operating system designed for the fourth and fifth-generation Apple TV models. tvOS 12 comes after a months-long beta testing period that saw Apple release a total of 10 tvOS 12 betas ahead of the golden master version of the software.
Like all tvOS updates, tvOS 12 is minor in scale, but it does bring some new feature improvements to the tvOS operating system.
tvOS 12 can be downloaded over the air through the Settings app on the Apple TV by going to System --> Software Update. Apple TV owners who have automatic software updates turned on will be upgraded to tvOS 12 automatically.
tvOS 12 introduces long-awaited support for higher-quality Dolby Atmos sound, and Apple has been adding Dolby Atmos support to some of its iTunes content. With the launch of tvOS 12, iTunes is home to the largest collection of movies that offer Dolby Atmos support.
iTunes customers who have previously purchased movies that gain Dolby Atmos support will see free upgrades to their titles to add the new feature, much like Apple upgraded HD movies with the rollout of support for 4K content.
Building on single sign-on, a new zero sign-on feature further simplifies the cable authentication process. With zero sign-on, the Apple TV can detect a user's broadband network and automatically sign them into supported apps they receive through an accompanying cable subscription.
Zero sign-on will be available for Charter Communications customers this fall and will expand to additional cable providers in the future.
In tvOS 12, Aerial screensavers include location information for the first time, and there are new screensavers captured in collaboration with the International Space Station.
Other tvOS-related improvements include AutoFill passwords from iPhone, an Apple TV Remote automatically added to Control Center on the iPhone or iPad, and Apple TV support on Home control systems like Control4, Crestron, and Savant.
We've got an exclusive new deal to share with our readers today, this one coming from a partnership with accessory company ElevationLab. Those interested can save on ElevationLab's ElevationDock 4, priced at $35.97 with code MRDOCK40, down from $59.95.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
ElevationDock 4 is an iPhone dock that charges and cradles compatible iPhones, using micro air suction to keep itself stable on your desk. The dock is compatible with all of Apple's own cases and any case 3mm thin, but is not compatible with thicker wallet-style cases or protective cases, like OtterBox. Both the Matte Black and Matte White colors are up for the exclusive 40 percent discount, so head to Amazon and place your order before September 21, when the code expires.
Our next exclusive sale is another partnership with Magix, offering our readers an exclusive discount on the multimedia software maker's Sound Forge Pro Mac 3 bundle. The offer includes savings of up to 60 percent off, with Sound Forge Pro Mac 3 priced at $229.00, down from $557.00.
For those interested, Sound Forge Pro Mac 3 is an advanced audio editing suite with multi-channel recording and editing, mastering for music and dialogue clips, and support for high-resolution audio recording at 24 bits with sampling rates as high as 192kHz. The sale will run through October 31, 2018, so be sure to visit Magix's website if you're interested and place your order before it ends.
On Amazon, Anker has a new collection of discount codes this week, all focused on savings for its line of wireless charging accessories:
In a new back-to-school sale, Bluetooth tracker company Tile is offering customers the chance to save on a variety of its products. These include up to 55 percent off Tile combo packs and up to 45 percent off Tile Sport. Check out all of the savings below:
Apple has announced that its iPhone display calibration process no longer requires specialized hardware, according to an internal service-related document obtained by MacRumors today.
Starting today, Genius Bars and Apple Authorized Service Providers can calibrate the display on a repaired iPhone 6s or newer by simply connecting the device to a Mac mini or MacBook Air running Apple's calibration and diagnostics software, without the need to use a so-called 3D Touch Calibration Fixture.
3D Touch Calibration Fixture via Reuters
Apple says this change will result in three benefits for service providers and customers:
More flexible workspaces for service providers, as the calibration fixture takes up quite a bit of space.
Reduced wait times for customers, suggesting that the software-based calibration process is faster.
Later this year, more Apple Authorized Service Providers around the world will have an opportunity to expand their in-store repair offerings to include iPhone display repairs.
Apple will outline the required steps for service providers to transition from the hardware to the software process later today, according to the internal communication, which was earlier reported by iMore's Rene Ritchie.
Apple Authorized Service Providers with a 3D Touch Calibration Fixture will be required to return the hardware at a later date to be announced.
iPhone display calibration ensures that a replacement display is fully integrated with the device's logic board at the system level. The process has been required since the arrival of Touch ID on the iPhone 5s in 2013, followed by 3D Touch on the iPhone 6s and newer, and Face ID on the iPhone X and newer.
Touch ID and Face ID calibration was already completed in software, and now 3D Touch calibration will be too, completely eliminating the need for hardware. If the display on an iPhone is replaced, but the calibration process is not completed, then Touch ID, Face ID, and/or 3D Touch will not function.
Since Apple made Horizon machines available to Authorized Service Providers, there are more AASPs that can provide screen fixes than Apple Stores worldwide, making it quicker and faster for customers to get a screen repair. With change to a software-based calibration process, thousands more AASPs will be able to provide in-store screen fixes without the need to send devices off for repair.
A new iOS vulnerability was discovered by a security researcher over the weekend, causing affected iPhones and iPads to crash and restart when following a link to an HTML page hosting specially crafted CSS code.
The vulnerability hits the WebKit rendering engine used in Safari by applying a CSS effect -- "backdrop-filter" -- that requires enough heavy graphics processing to cause iOS to crash completely.
Software engineer and security researcher Sabri Haddouche, who works for encrypted messaging app Wire, discovered the vulnerability and shared videos of its effects on Twitter. Haddouche also discussed his findings with ZDNet:
"The attack uses a weakness in the -webkit-backdrop-filter CSS property, which uses 3D acceleration to process elements behind them," Haddouche told ZDNet in an interview.
"By using nested divs with that property, we can quickly consume all graphic resources and freeze or kernel panic the OS."
Apple has been notified of the vulnerability, and Haddouche confirmed that the company is actively investigating the issue. The researcher also notes that the CSS code in its current form will freeze Safari on macOS "for a minute," and then slow it down, but the Mac won't crash. However, a modified version with Javascript could end with the same outcome as the iOS version, crashing the Mac computer that it's on.
Haddouche didn't publish the modified macOS vulnerability because once the computer reboots, Safari persists and the browser is automatically launched again with the same result, resulting in a cycle of reboots. The researcher says that he discovered the vulnerabilities during research for denial of service bugs on different web browsers.
Despite the promise of a 2018 release date, Apple's long-awaited AirPower wireless charging mat remains unavailable, and almost all mentions of the device were last week removed from its website. This has prompted speculation over what could be behind the delay – and even whether the AirPower, which was announced over a year ago, will ever see the light of day.
Previous reports have touched upon the technical issues Apple has run into with the AirPower's design, but a new report published on Sunday by Sonny Dickson claims several pieces of exclusive information that shed light on the challenges Apple is still facing with the device, which is designed to charge the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once.
According to the report's multiple internal sources, many of those working on the AirPower project believe the device may be "doomed to failure" unless engineering solutions can be found for a host of currently unresolved issues, which include:
Heat management
Currently the device produces far too much heat, which causes performance setbacks, and can affect the ability of the devices to charge if they become too warm in the process. It also affects the ability of Apple's custom charging chip, which runs a stripped down version of iOS, to function as intended.
Buggy inter-device communication
Apple's engineers have been experiencing both hardware and software issues with the communication between AirPower and devices placed on the mat, especially the communication of Apple Watch and AirPod charging data to the iPhone, which monitors the charge level of all devices placed on the mat.
Mechanical and interference issues
The mechanism being used for multi-device charging [21 and 24 overlapping power coils of various sizes] is proving extremely difficult to build or refine, and has been resulting in a significant amount of interference... which reduces the efficiency of the charging mat, and contributes to the heat issues that engineers are facing.
Aside from heat and interference shielding, the report notes that the complexity of the circuitry in the device is also posing a significant challenge, which may not be overcome unless the device is redesigned to be slightly thicker and larger. However, Apple is said to be "unwilling to make compromises" on the AirPower's overall design.
Wrapping up, Dickson holds out hope that the AirPower could still debut before the end of the year, but claims that "the broad consensus among engineers suggests that this is highly unlikely".
Indeed, Dickson says chatter he's heard "less notable individuals involved with the project" suggest that the AirPower concept and trademark could eventually be applied to an all-new product with other unmentioned features, to be publicly shown at an undisclosed date "not likely to occur before Spring".
For those who remain steadfastly optimistic about the AirPower, Apple has a few more months to meet its self-imposed 2018 deadline for the device, so it's still possible we'll see the device debut via press release in October, November, or December.
Popular writing app Ulysses is being updated to coincide with the release of macOS Mojave and iOS 12, introducing support for new features in Apple's latest desktop and mobile operating systems.
With macOS Mojave, Apple has introduced a new system-wide Dark Mode, which means many third-party apps will need updating with a similar color scheme. Since its initial release, a Dark Mode has been part of Ulysses, but the new update introduces a reworked and fine-tuned version to fit with the new system requirements.
Ulysses users will be able to have Dark or Light Mode auto-switch according to the system preferences, or continue to switch manually between the two from within the app. In addition, a new editor theme for Ulysses is available — D14 — with colors optimized for the new Dark Mode.
Elsewhere, Ulysses for Mac is getting a redesigned sheet list (the column displaying an overview of divided texts in a group) with bigger tiles and a lighter appearance for clarity and legibility. There's also a new share extension that lets users send links, texts and images from Safari and many other apps directly to Ulysses.
Meanwhile, in other improvements:
Command-clicking a link in the editor now opens the link in the default browser.
Four spaces are no longer replaced with tabs.
Comment blocks no longer add to paragraph count.
Double-pressing arrow keys in editor no longer switches between sheets.
Improved reliability when editing goals.
Over on iPad and iPhone, the Ulysses update brings support for the new Siri Shortcuts in iOS 12. Users can now assign voice commands to a number of Ulysses actions, including creating new sheets and opening existing sheets and groups. Siri will also make recommendations based on most-used Ulysses actions. All of Ulysses' actions are available in Apple's new Shortcuts app, ready for integrating into complex workflows.
The release of the new Ulysses versions is expected to match the release of Apple’s new operating systems – in fact the mobile update is already rolling out for iOS 12, which Apple is launching today. The launch date for macOS Mojave is September 24, so expect Ulysses for Mac to be updated then or thereabouts.
Ulysses can be downloaded for free on the App Store and the Mac App Store. After a 14-day trial period, a subscription is required to unlock the app on all devices. A monthly subscription costs $4.99, while a yearly subscription is $39.99. Students can use Ulysses at a discounted price of $11.99 per six months. The discount is granted from within the app.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has issued a research note today, obtained by MacRumors, outlining his opinions about first-weekend pre-orders for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and Apple Watch Series 4.
Kuo says Apple Watch Series 4 pre-orders have been "better than expected," as a result of new innovative functions, such as electrocardiogram support. He predicts Apple Watch shipments will reach 18 million units in 2018, with the Series 4 lineup accounting for 50 to 55 percent of those orders.
If the ECG support expands to more countries, Kuo believes the Series 4 lineup could see even stronger shipment momentum.
In contrast, Kuo says iPhone XS pre-orders are "lower-than-expected," as customers opt for the iPhone XS Max or wait for the iPhone XR. Kuo has lowered his forecast for iPhone XS orders, believing the model will account for only 10 to 15 percent of shipments of the new 2018 iPhones, down from 15 to 20 percent.
Kuo says iPhone XS Max pre-orders have been in line with expectations, signifying the success of Apple's high-pricing strategy:
There is strong Chinese demand thanks to the gold casing, dual-SIM, and large display. The XS Max average shipping time is shorter than the 2H17 iPhone X (1–2 weeks vs. 2–3 weeks), which we think is due to supply improvements. We maintain our forecasts that the XS Max will account for 25–30% of 2H18 new iPhone model shipments.
Kuo sees a positive outlook for the iPhone XR, available to pre-order October 19, given its lower pricing and dual-SIM support in China.
The well-known analyst increased his forecast for iPhone XR orders, estimating that the model will account for 55 to 60 percent of shipments of the new 2018 iPhones, up from 50 to 55 percent previously.
"We estimate the shipment peak of XS Max and XS will be in October and XR will start shipping and benefiting supply chain momentum in October," said Kuo.
iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and Apple Watch Series 4 pre-orders began Friday.
The first iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and Apple Watch Series 4 orders placed on the online Apple Store have shifted to "Preparing to Ship" ahead of an expected Friday, September 21 delivery date.
Many orders in the United States, Australia, the UK, and and other countries have changed status and should be shipping out to customers in the near future. Apple Watch Series 4 and iPhone XS orders that have shifted to "Preparing for Shipment" can no longer be modified or canceled.
Apple began accepting pre-orders for the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max on Friday, September 14 at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time. By the time a half hour had passed, many iPhone XS Max models had sold out and were no longer available for launch day delivery.
As of today, new iPhone XS Max orders will not ship out until October, but some models are still available for in-store pickup on September 21 in select stores. Retail stores are also expected to have supplies available for walk-in purchases on launch day.
Supplies of the smaller 5.8-inch iPhone XS are plentiful and that device remains available for Friday delivery.
After orders began shipping, Apple's shipment status information may not be updated right away. Over the course of the next few days, some customers in the United States may be able to track their shipments using track by reference features on the UPS and FedEx websites.
Update: This article has been updated to include the Apple Watch Series 4 as some orders in the United States recently began changing to "Preparing to Ship." Not all Apple Watch Series 4 orders have been updated at this time, while most iPhone XS and XS Max orders are in the preparing to ship phase.
Ahead of next week's launch of iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12, Apple has released an updated version of the Shortcuts app that will be available once iOS 12 is released.
The new Shortcuts beta is the golden master (GM) version of the app, which represents the final version of the app that will be provided to consumers.
According to Apple's release notes, the new Shortcuts update introduces new actions that were not available during the beta testing period, with "Limited actions available in beta" listed as a resolved issue.
Over the course of the iOS 12 beta testing period, access to the Shortcuts iOS app via Testflight has been limited to developers. Public beta testers and general consumers will be able to experience the Shortcuts app for the first time next week.
For those unfamiliar with Shortcuts, it's an iOS 12 Siri feature designed to let you create multi-step shortcuts using first and third-party apps that can be activated by Siri voice command.
So, for example, you can create a shortcut to do something like turn on the thermostat at home using the Nest app, text your roommate that you're on the way with Messages, and open up the Maps app with directions home all with a single "I'm going home" Siri command.
Shortcuts are deeply customizable, with third-party apps able to expose a series of quick actions to Siri that can be incorporated into your Shortcuts recipes. Apps are expected to begin releasing updates with Siri Shortcuts support and other iOS 12 features starting next week.
Apple will release iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12 to the public on Monday, September 17. The software updates will likely be released at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time.
Apple today shared a video focused on the iPhone XS, which is designed to offer up all of the details that you need to know about the new device in just 54 seconds.
The short video runs through all of the features that distinguish the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max from the previous-generation iPhone X.
The video covers notable features like the 5.8 and 6.5-inch screen sizes, A12 Bionic chip, faster Face ID, IP68 water resistance, and more, with a list below.
Biggest screen on an iPhone ever
Super durable all-glass design
More water and dust resistant
Now in Gold
Face ID is even more advanced
Dual cameras are smarter
Depth control
Highest quality video
Smartest and most powerful chip in an iPhone
Faster wireless charging
Gigabit LTE
Wider stereo sound
The video wraps up with the tagline "It's not just one amazing iPhone, it's two.
This is the second quick summary style video that Apple has done, and it follows a two minute video that was published following Apple's event, wrapping up everything that was announced in 108 seconds.
These quick videos offer up a useful way for Apple to share all of the new features in the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max in a short period of time, making them ideal for commercials and use on social media. We may see more of these videos in the future as Apple continues advertising the new 2018 iPhone and Apple Watch models.
Apple's iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max were announced earlier this week, and are now available for pre-order from Apple's online store. Both devices are set to be launched next week, on Friday, September 21.
Update: Apple has also shared a new "Shot on iPhone XS" video highlighting the video-capturing capabilities of the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max with a video experiment that uses sound, slo-mo, time-lapse, and 4k video to capture scenes of water, fire, metal and light.
Update 2: Apple on Saturday shared another iPhone XS and XS Max video highlighting the 5.8 and 6.5-inch displays of the two devices.
Apple on Wednesday introduced the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max, its new flagship smartphones, and the lower-priced iPhone XR.
iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are the latest and greatest models with the most features. That also makes them the most expensive, starting at $999 and $1,099 respectively in the United States, versus the iPhone XR at $749 and up.
To make the buying decision easier, we've put together a comparison of the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR below.
Just the Tech Specs
iPhone XR
6.1-inch LCD display
1792×828 resolution (326 PPI)
True Tone
Single 12-megapixel rear camera (wide-angle lens)
Single 7-megapixel front camera
Portrait Mode with Depth Control
Smart HDR photos
A12 Bionic chip
Face ID via TrueDepth sensors
Lightning connector
Fast charging capable: up to 50% charge in 30 minutes
Qi-based wireless charging
IP67-rated water resistance to a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes
64GB / 128GB / 256GB
Dual SIM (Nano-SIM and eSIM)
LTE Advanced
VoLTE
802.11ac Wi‑Fi with MIMO
Bluetooth 5.0
iPhone XS
5.8-inch OLED display
2436×1125 resolution (458 PPI)
True Tone
Dual 12-megapixel rear cameras (wide-angle and telephoto lenses)
Single 7-megapixel front camera
Portrait Mode with Depth Control
Smart HDR photos
A12 Bionic chip
Face ID via TrueDepth sensors
Lightning connector
Fast charging capable: up to 50% charge in 30 minutes
Qi-based wireless charging
IP68-rated water resistance to a depth of 2 meters for up to 30 minutes
64GB / 256GB / 512GB
Dual SIM (Nano-SIM and eSIM)
Gigabit-class LTE
VoLTE
802.11ac Wi‑Fi with MIMO
Bluetooth 5.0
HDR display
3D Touch
iPhone XS Max has a larger 6.5-inch OLED display and one-hour-longer battery life, but otherwise identical tech specs as the iPhone XS.
What do I lose with the iPhone XR?
With a $250 lower price point, the iPhone XR doesn't have all of the bells and whistles of the iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max. Apple had to make some trade-offs to get the price down, but not as many as one might expect.
We've explained the differences between the iPhone XR and iPhone XS in more detail below, but from a bird's eye view, expect some compromises related to the display, cameras, and overall design. Apple has also replaced 3D Touch on the iPhone XR with a new haptic feedback solution named Haptic Touch.
To celebrate the launch of Apple's new 2018 iPhones, we're hosting a few special giveaways this week, and we've saved the best for last.
We've teamed up with Casetify to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win a brand new 64GB Space Gray iPhone XS Max along with a Casetify Impact iPhone case bundle.
Apple's 6.5-inch iPhone XS Max is its newest, biggest flagship device, and Casetify has an attractive, slim case ready to go for the new device and its sibling, the 5.8-inch iPhone XS.
Casetify's Impact Cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are some of the slimmest cases available that also offer Military Grade drop protection. They measure in at 2.8mm thick, but offer protection from drops of up to 6.6 feet.
Priced at $49, the Impact Case features a dual-layer construction with a "Qitech" shockproof material that offers both impact resistance and shock absorption for protection from drops. iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are made from glass to allow for wireless charging, so a case like the Impact is essential.
If you're not familiar with Casetify, you should know that all of Casetify's cases are ultra customizable. You can choose from millions of artist designs or upload your own designs.
The Impact Case features a high gloss finish that can be customized with any design and there's a raised bezel to protect the screen when it's face down. A flash absorbent camera ring is located at the back and the Qitech material at the sides adds style and protection. All Casetify cases work with wireless charging.
Casetify is giving an iPhone XS Max and case bundle to one lucky MacRumors reader, but those who don't win can get a 20 percent discount on an Impact Case from the Casetify website, dropping the price from $49 to $39. Just use code MACRUMORS when checking out.
To enter to win the iPhone XS Max, use the Rafflecopter widget below and enter an email address. Email addresses will be used solely for contact purposes to reach the winners and send the prizes. You can earn additional entries by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, subscribing to our YouTube channel, following us on Twitter, or visiting the MacRumorsFacebook page.
Due to the complexities of international laws regarding giveaways, only U.S. residents who are 18 years or older and Canadian residents (excluding Quebec) who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory are eligible to enter. To offer feedback or get more information on the giveaway restrictions, please refer to our Site Feedback section, as that is where discussion of the rules will be redirected.
The contest will run from today (September 14) at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time through 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on September 21. The winners will be chosen randomly on September 21 and will be contacted by email. The winners will have 48 hours to respond and provide a shipping address before new winners are chosen.
The iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are now up for pre-order on Apple.com, and with the debut of new smartphones from Apple, all of the major carriers have also kicked off their own special offers for the devices. Below we've taken a look at the major iPhone XS-related deals from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint, so read on to see how you can save some money if you haven't yet purchased one of the latest iPhones.
AT&T
If you buy the iPhone XS with AT&T, you'll get another XS for $700 off if both are purchased on AT&T Next. The limited time offer requires a new line to be added onto a Next plan, and the $700 promotion will be applied over 30 months.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
If you would prefer the second device in the BOGO deal to be an iPhone 8, you can also get the 64GB iPhone 8 ($599.99) or the 64GB iPhone 8 Plus ($699.99) for free.
AT&T notes that you can also receive the $700 as a credit towards a more expensive iPhone, including a 256GB iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone XS, or iPhone XS Max (priced up to $1,450). In these cases the second iPhone will be discounted but not completely free.
Verizon essentially has the same offer as AT&T, allowing you to mix-and-match a BOGO deal where you can buy the iPhone XS, XS Max, X, 8, or 8 Plus, add a new line to one of the phones, and save $700 on the second. In Verizon's offer, the credit of $29.16 will be added to your monthly bill for the next 24 months.
This means that you'll pay full price for the two iPhones over 24 months, but then in one to two billing cycles you'll begin to see a credit of $29.16 added to your account. The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus in the deal are for the 256GB model, but if you opt for the 64GB option the credit placed on your account will be $24.99 per month.
Alternatively, Verizon's second offer lets you save $100 with select trade-ins. When purchasing an iPhone XS, XS Max, X, 8, or 8 Plus with a select trade-in (that's in good working and cosmetic condition), you'll receive $100 over 24 months as a monthly credit. Verizon will send a prepaid package to mail the trade-in within 30 days at no cost.
The carrier notes that if your trade-in is valued at higher than $100 then you'll get the full value as an account credit, or new customers can get the full value as a virtual gift card sent two weeks after it receives your device.
Devices eligible for trade-in include: iPhone X, 8 Plus, 8, 7 Plus, 7, 6s Plus, 6s, 6 plus, 6, 5s and SE. Non-Apple devices include: Google Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel and Pixel XL; LG V30, V20, V10, G6, G5 and G4; Motorola Z2 Force, Z Force, Z2 Play, Z Play, Z Droid, Z Play and Turbo 2; Samsung GS9, GS9+, GS8, GS8+, GS7, 7 Edge, 7 Active, GS6, 6 Edge, 6 Edge+, 6 Active, GS5, GS4, Note 8, Note 5, Note 4 and Note Edge; HTC 10 and M9/M9+.
At T-Mobile, if you buy an iPhone XS, XS Max, X, 8, or 8 Plus, you can save up to $300 through bill credits that expand over 24 months with an eligible iPhone trade-in. The new device must be purchased on one of T-Mobile's monthly payment plans, and the trade-ins are required to be in good condition, with values designated below:
- Devices in good condition for $300 value: iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus
- Devices in good condition for $200 value: iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus
- Devices in good condition for $100 value: iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPhone SE, iPhone 5C
If you meet all of these criteria, T-Mobile will add a credit of up to $12.50 on your monthly bill for 24 months, after one to two bill cycles following the trade-in shipping.
Sprint has a few offers as well, with the 64GB iPhone XS available for $0/month or the 64GB XS Max for $4.17/month following an eligible trade-in. These include iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S9, Samsung Galaxy S9+, LG G7 ThinQ, Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung Galaxy S8+, Samsung Galaxy S8 Active, Samsung Galaxy Note8, Google Pixel 2, and Google Pixel 2XL.
With the value of the trade-in, you'll get $41.67 per month credit for both 64GB models of the iPhone XS and XS Max, applied within two billing cycles. The new devices must be purchased on an 18-month lease, with a new line and approved credit.
As a more basic offer, if you switch to Sprint you'll get $100 for each new line of service that you add when you lease a new smartphone. The credit will come in the form of a $100 Prepaid Mastercard for each new line that you add. Besides the lease, this deal requires online registration and 60 days of service before you see the card shipped.
Pre-orders for the iPhone XS and XS Max went up at 12:01 a.m. PDT earlier this morning, and shipping estimates for the bigger XS Max began slipping under an hour after orders went live. The new Apple Watch Series 4 also went up for pre-order at the same time today, and now almost all stainless steel Apple Watch Series 4 models are listing shipping dates of October 5 to October 12, with the exception of some 40mm models.
Apple is donating $1 million to the American Red Cross to support Hurricane Florence relief efforts, as it routinely does for natural disasters, according to a tweet shared by Apple CEO Tim Cook today.
Apple often accepts Red Cross donations from customers through the App Store and iTunes Store, but it has yet to add banners to either storefront, or Apple.com. We'll update this article if that changes.
The Carolinas are in our hearts. To our employees there, first responders and everyone in Hurricane Florence’s path, please stay safe. To help those affected, Apple is donating $1M to the Red Cross.
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) September 14, 2018
Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina earlier today as a Category 1 storm, resulting in destructive winds, rain, and storm surges across the Carolinas and southeastern United States.
LG has been selected as a secondary supplier of flexible OLED display panels for iPhones, according to Korean publication ETNews.
The report, citing unnamed sources, claims that LG's sixth-generation flexible OLED display panels recently passed a series of Apple's quality tests. LG is now preparing for mass production at one of its plants, the sources said.
In April, The Wall Street Journal reported that Samsung would likely remain Apple's exclusive supplier of OLED display panels for the latest iPhones, unveiled Wednesday, after LG fell behind schedule due to mass production challenges.
If today's report is accurate, however, LG may still be coming on board as a secondary supplier of at least some OLED panels soon. Korean newspaper Newspin reported about a potential deal signed between Apple and LG back in July.
Samsung has been Apple's exclusive supplier of OLED display panels since the iPhone X launched last year. Numerous reports have identified LG as a potential second supplier, as Apple routinely aims to diversify its component makers.
While this news does not have significant implications for customers, Apple can potentially negotiate lower prices for OLED panels as Samsung and LG compete for its business, thereby lowering its production costs of OLED-equipped iPhones.
Earlier this week, Apple introduced the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max with 5.8-inch and 6.5-inch sized OLED displays respectively. The new, lower-priced iPhone XR is equipped with a 6.1-inch LCD as a cost-cutting measure.
The original iPhone X also has a 5.8-inch OLED display, but Apple discontinued that model upon announcing the XS and XS Max.
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A new iOS vulnerability was discovered by a security researcher over the weekend, causing affected iPhones and iPads to crash and restart when following a link to an HTML page hosting specially crafted CSS code. 
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