At an event in Cupertino yesterday, Apple announced three new iPhone models: the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. Prices for the iPhones start at $749 for the iPhone XR in 64GB, and increase to as much as $1,449 for the iPhone XS Max in 512GB, which represents Apple's most expensive iPhone to date.
Commenting on this price range in an interview with Nikkei today, Apple CEO Tim Cook said, "We want to serve everyone." Apple introduced the iPhone XR at a cheaper price point so that customers who wanted the advantages of the iPhone X line -- Face ID, an edge-to-edge screen -- could find them on a lower-cost iPhone.
"We want to serve everyone," Cook said in an interview with Nikkei. "We understand that there is a wide range of what customers are looking for and a wide range of prices that people will pay."
Likewise, the iPhone XS Max represents Apple's biggest iPhone yet, and serves the customers who enjoyed the features of the 2017 iPhone X, but wished it came in a larger size.
"We always thought ... that if you provide a lot of innovation and a lot of value, there is a segment of people who are willing to pay for it," Cook said. "For us, it's a large enough group of people that we can make a reasonable business out of it."
Apple will also still sell the previous generation iPhone 7 and iPhone 8, at new lower prices. The iPhone 7 will now start at $449 in 32GB and increase to as much as $669 for the iPhone 7 Plus in 128GB. The iPhone 8 will start at $599 in 64GB and rise to $849 for the iPhone 8 Plus in 256GB.
Discussing the iPhone in general, Cook says that, "The role of the iPhone has become much larger in people's lives," and that will justify the price of the devices for many customers.
Those interested will be able to pre-order their iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max beginning tomorrow, September 14, and the smartphones will then launch on September 21 in over 30 countries and territories. The iPhone XR will go up for pre-order in about a month, on Friday, October 19, and then launch on October 26.
In addition to the iPhone, Apple yesterday also announced the Apple Watch Series 4 with a 30 percent larger display, thinner body, ECG reader, fall detection, and more. Similar to iPhone XS, Apple Watch Series 4 pre-orders will go up on September 14 and the smartwatch will launch on September 21.
Global shipments of Apple's new iPhone lineup should exceed 85 million units in the second half of the year, according to research conducted by DigiTimes, with the more budget-friendly iPhone XR expected to account for over half of all sales.
Shipments of the LCD-based 6.1-inch iPhone XR are expected to account for over 50 percent of combined shipments of the new three models being released, although the availability of the iPhone XR will come on October 26 compared to September 21 for iPhone Xs and Xs Max.
Total iPhone shipments – including older-generation models – are expected to top 127 million units in the second half of 2018, representing "modest growth" for the tech giant's mobile business. Meanwhile, Apple's total smartphone revenue is likely to reach nearly $100 billion in the second half of the year, which is a 10 percent increase compared to the previous year.
The estimates for the new iPhone XS, XS Max and XR are said to be based on supply chain information, combined with Apple's annual sales and the average selling prices over previous years.
Apple's lower-spec iPhone XR features an edge-to-edge "Liquid Retina" LCD display with wide color and True Tone support, and the same all-screen design as the OLED-based iPhone Xs and Xs Max, but with an aluminum frame instead of stainless steel.
Other downgrades from the iPhone XS that make the XR cheaper include a single-lens rear facing camera instead of the dual lens on the XS, and a lack of 3D Touch support.
It comes in White, Black, Blue, Coral, Yellow, and (PRODUCT)Red colors, and will be available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB models. Pre-orders for Apple's new smartphones begin on Friday, September 14, ahead of an official launch a week later on Friday, September 21 in over 30 countries and territories.
Smartphone lens maker Moment has begun shipping the first MFi-approved Battery Photo Case compatible with iPhone X and the new iPhone XS.
The battery case first drew interest earlier this year as a Kickstarter campaign highlighting several notable features, some of which are clearly aimed at photographers.
The case has a 3,100mAh built-in battery for charging your iPhone on the go, and it's wireless-charging compatible, so it can be placed on any Qi-compatible charging pad.
The case also features an integrated Lightning port to charge an iPhone X/XS, rather than the typical micro-USB found on charging accessories, while a wrist/neck strap can be easily attached for safety.
In addition, there's a two-stage shutter button on the case for taking pictures, so pressing the button halfway focuses the lens and a full press takes the picture.
The Battery Case is compatible with the Moment lens lineup, which includes telephoto, wide, super fish, macro, and a soon-to-be-released Anamorphic lens.
The case costs $99 and can be ordered today on the Moment website, which will offer upgraded versions for iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR come November.
Spotify has increased the maximum number of offline downloads a subscriber is allowed as well as the number of phones and computers they can be stored across at any one time.
According to Rolling Stone, it was Spotify users who initially discovered that the limit on downloaded tracks has been raised to 10,000 songs per device, up from the previous cap of 3,333 per device.
Additionally, offline downloads can now be stored on up to five devices. Previously, users were able to download tracks for offline listening on up to three devices, which meant you could have a maximum of 9,999 offline tracks per account. With five devices now allowed each containing up to 10,000 songs, that ceiling rises to 50,000 tracks. The Swedish streaming giant subsequently confirmed the changes to Rolling Stone:
"At Spotify, we're always working on improving the experience for our users. We can now confirm that we have increased the number of offline tracks per device — from 3,333 on three devices to 10,000 tracks per device for up to five devices," a Spotify spokesperson said.
The new limits should please a large section of users who have long aired their grievances about the seemingly arbitrary cap on offline downloads. That said, Spotify could likely please even more subscribers by increasing the 10,000 track limit on personal libraries, which strangely remains in place.
Apple has shared a video on its YouTube channel showcasing the video recording capabilities of the new flagship iPhone XS, which debuted on Wednesday at Apple's Gather Round event held at Apple Park.
The content provides a "first-look" at video shot on the new device, which Apple claims has the "highest quality video shot on any smartphone", and looks at how water, metals, and other substances were used to create the impressive clips.
Over 1 minute and 44 seconds, viewers get a sample of what the smartphone's 4K, Slo-mo, and Time-lapse modes can capture in close-quarters, interspersed with short clips of how the experimental conditions were set up.
For example, one low-light experiment in 4K (at 60fps) mixes ink and clay over several glass panes to create a stunning interstellar-like scene complete with planets, their satellites, and nebulae looming in the background.
Apple says the XS family features larger pixels and a faster sensor than previous iPhones, enabling improved low-light performance and video stabilization, while four built-in mics allow video to be recorded with stereo sound.
The iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max come in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage capacities, and in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold. The iPhone XS starts at $999 in 64GB, while the iPhone XS Max starts at $1,099 in 64GB.
Pre-orders for the smartphones begin on Friday, September 14, ahead of launch on Friday, September 21 in more than 30 countries and territories.
Today's "Gather Round" Apple event focused on just the iPhone and the Apple Watch, with Apple introducing the iPhone XS, the iPhone XS Max, and the iPhone XR, along with updated Apple Watch Series 4 models.
There was no sign of the iPad Pro, AirPower, or new Macs, and because we know these products are in the works, no mention at the September event essentially confirms that an October event is in the works. In past years, when there have been new fall Macs and iPads on the horizon, Apple has held an iPhone event and then a separate October event, which is likely to be the plan again this year.
Below, we've listed everything rumored to be on the horizon that was not included in today's event.
iPad Pro
Apple is said to be working on updated iPad Pro models that adopt an iPhone X-style design with slimmer bezels and no Home button, with the iPads instead set to gain a TrueDepth Camera System that will allow Face ID to be used for biometric authentication purposes.
While the iPhone XS includes a notch for the TrueDepth Camera, leaked iPad Pro designs in the iOS 12 beta suggest the iPad Pro models will not have a notch, instead retaining slim top and bottom bezels. Apple is also not planning to use an OLED display for the iPad at this time due to cost and production issues.
Renderings of 12.9-inch iPad Pro based on alleged CAD drawings
Rumors suggest the new iPad Pro models will be available in screen sizes that are approximately 11 and 12.9 inches, with Apple using chamfered edges that are similar in design to the iPhone SE. The antenna lines on the device may also be located at the top and bottom, similar to the iPhone 7.
Renderings of 12.9-inch iPad Pro based on alleged CAD drawings
Renders based on leaked CAD drawings suggest the iPad Pro has a relocated Smart Connector that's been moved from the side of the device to the back of the device, but how this would functionally work remains in question, so it's not clear if the information is accurate.
We've also heard that the new iPad Pro models will not feature a headphone jack, with Apple opting to do away with the port as it did in the iPhone lineup beginning with the iPhone 7.
Mac mini
Apple is said to be working on a refreshed version of the Mac mini that's focused on pro users. The upgraded device will include new storage and processor options, and because of its pro focus, it could be more expensive than previous Mac mini products.
There's not a lot of additional information available on the Mac mini, but a previous rumor suggested the higher-end version "won't be so mini anymore" hinting at least one configuration with a larger size to accommodate higher-end components.
Given that this is going to be a pro-focused machine, it's not clear what chips it will adopt, but Intel this year has announced 8th-generation processors appropriate for both desktop and notebook machines. Past Mac mini models have used the same chips as the 13-inch MacBook Pro, but Apple may be planning to opt for more powerful chips for a pro Mac mini model.
Low-Cost MacBook Air
Apple has a 13-inch MacBook Air replacement in the works, which has been the subject of rumors for more than a year now. It's been unclear whether Apple plans to position the machine in the MacBook Air family or the 12-inch MacBook family, but some concrete details about the upcoming notebook can be gleaned from everything we've heard.
Positioned as an entry-level low-cost machine in Apple's product lineup, the notebook will be 13 inches in size and it will feature a Retina display. It is said to be similar in design to the current 13-inch MacBook Air, but with slimmer bezels.
It's not entirely clear how Apple will distinguish this machine from the 12-inch MacBook if it's going to offer a Retina display, but if the design is similar to the current MacBook Air, the 12-inch MacBook will still be Apple's lightest machine, justifying its higher price tag.
Various pricing rumors have suggested that it could be available for anywhere from $799 to $1,200, but the most reliable source, Bloomberg, believes it will cost under $1,000.
Whiskey Lake chips appropriate for a MacBook Air-like machine were announced by Intel in August, and so Apple could potentially be planning to use these chips in the device.
12-Inch MacBook
Regardless of whether the rumored lower-cost 13-inch notebook is a MacBook Air or a MacBook, Apple is likely still planning to maintain the 12-inch MacBook lineup, though reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently confusingly said that the 13-inch machine could "replace the position" of the current 12-inch MacBook, and it's not entirely clear what that means.
Upgraded 12-inch MacBooks will likely feature Intel's 8th-generation Amber Lake Y-series processors, announced in August. These chips bring processor and battery improvements, so new MacBooks could offer both faster performance and longer battery life.
Aside from upgraded Intel chips, there's been little information on what else Apple might add to a refreshed MacBook lineup.
iMacs
We haven't heard any iMac rumors in recent months, but Apple refreshes its iMac lineup on a regular basis, so an upgrade may be in the works.
If iMacs are refreshed in 2018, new machines could feature upgraded 8th-generation Intel processors, improved GPUs, and perhaps the adoption of the T2 chip that was introduced in the iMac Pro and has since been added to the MacBook Pro.
AirPower
It's not clear what's going on with the AirPower, the accessory that's meant to charge the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once. It was introduced in September 2017, and since then, Apple has made no mention of it.
AirPower was not included in today's event, and in fact, after the event, Apple basically removed all mentions of the AirPower from its website.
The one AirPower mention is limited to the AirPods page, where an optional wireless AirPods charging case is listed as "currently unavailable." The AirPower doesn't appear to be listed anywhere else.
Apple said the AirPower would debut at some point in 2018, so we could still see it in October, November, or December.
Following the announcement of the iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max, which will be available for pre-order this Friday, Apple is letting prospective and existing iPhone Upgrade customers get pre-approval through the Apple Store app [Direct Link].
When selecting "View Pricing" on the iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max, there's a banner option to "Get Ready" for the iPhone XS pre-order. Tapping on this banner allows users to choose an iPhone, confirm a carrier, and get pre-approved for an iPhone Upgrade Program loan.
There's also an upgrade process for existing iPhone Upgrade Program users that can be found right under the "Get ready for pre-order now" option.
All iPhone Upgrade customers, both those new to the program and existing users, should go through this pre-approval process ahead of pre-orders to speed up their iPhone orders on Friday.
Pre-approvals will be available until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 13, with pre-orders set to begin at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time on Friday, September 14.
With the iPhone Upgrade Program, pricing on the iPhone XS starts at $49.91 per month, while pricing on the iPhone XS Max starts at $54.08 per month.
Apple today asked developers to begin submitting apps that take advantage of new features in iOS 12, watchOS 5, tvOS 12, and macOS Mojave ahead of the upcoming launch of the new software updates.
You can now submit apps that take advantage of the powerful new capabilities in the next release of iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Build your apps using Xcode 10 GM seed, test with the latest releases of iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12, and submit them for review.
According to Apple, all new apps and app updates for iPhone, including universal apps, will be need to be built with the iOS 12 SDK and will need to include support for the iPhone XS Max starting in March 2019.
All new apps and app updates for Apple Watch will need to be built with the watchOS 5 SDK and will need to support Apple Watch Series 4 by the same date.
Apple plans to release iOS 12, watchOS 5, tvOS 12, and new software for the HomePod on Monday, September 17. Apple will release macOS Mojave a week later on Monday, September 24.
Ahead of Apple's "Gather Round" event, rumors suggested the company would introduce updated AirPods with an improved wireless chip and support for hands-free "Hey Siri" functionality.
There was no mention of updated AirPods on stage when the new Apple Watch and iPhone models were unveiled, but Apple's event intro featured a video where "Hey Siri" support for AirPods is clearly demonstrated as a feature.
The "Hey Siri" moment happens at about 40 seconds into the video
In the Mission Impossible parody video that kicked off the event, an Apple employee racing across the Apple Park campus to deliver an item to Tim Cook uses "Hey Siri" with the AirPods to ask for the fastest route to the Steve Jobs Theater.
The "Hey Siri" hint suggests that this functionality is indeed coming to the AirPods at some point in the future, so it's possible that Apple is still planning to unveil updated AirPods later in the year.
At the current time, summoning Siri requires a double-tap on the side of one of the AirPods, which is much less convenient than the hands-free option.
If new AirPods are still on the horizon, that may also mean that Apple still intends to unveil the AirPower at some point in 2018. There was no mention of the AirPower at today's event and the device has essentially been scrubbed from Apple's website, so it's not entirely clear if and when it's going to launch.
Along with the AirPower, Apple is meant to be introducing a new wireless Charging Case for the AirPods, which is simply listed as "Unavailable" on Apple's website.
Apple could be planning to unveil AirPods with "Hey Siri" support, a wireless AirPods Charging Case, and the AirPower all at the same time later in 2018, but the company's plans are still very much unknown at this point.
The iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR are the first iPhones to support T-Mobile's 600 MHz LTE spectrum (aka Band 71), according to T-Mobile CEO John Legere.
Band 71 is listed as a supported option on the Tech Specs pages for both the iPhone XS and the iPhone XR. Apple additionally says its new devices support the most LTE bands ever in an iPhone.
T-Mobile purchased the 600 MHz spectrum in an FCC auction in April 2017 and shortly after announced plans to use the spectrum to improve its network in rural America.
By the time T-Mobile announced its plans for the rollout of the 600 MHz spectrum, the hardware for the iPhone X, iPhone 8, and 8 Plus was already secured, giving Apple no time to build in support.
T-Mobile in August 2017 activated the first 600 MHz site in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and has since expanded it to 1,254 cities across 36 states, including Puerto Rico, which means many T-Mobile customers who purchase the iPhone XS, XS Max, or XR will benefit from the improved coverage.
According to T-Mobile, the 600 MHz spectrum adds increased building penetration and covers greater distances. When used in metro areas, it improves in-building coverage, and in rural areas, it improves the company's LTE footprint.
Of course we’re going to carry the new iPhones!! BEST PART?! They are the first iPhones ever to INCLUDE our 600MHz Extended Range LTE!! That means your new #iPhone will have the best coverage and network experience of any @TMobile iPhone, EVER! #AppleEvent
— John Legere (@JohnLegere) September 12, 2018
Other smartphones that offer 600 MHz support include the LG G7 Thin Q, the Samsung Galaxy S9, and the Samsung Galaxy Note 9.
As outlined on Apple's developer site, the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR models allow users to scan NFC tags without an app using a new background tag reading feature.
On iPhones that support background tag reading, the system scans for and reads NFC data without requiring users to scan tags using an app. The system displays a pop-up notification each time it reads a new tag. After the user taps the notification, the system delivers the tag data to the appropriate app. If the iPhone is locked, the system prompts the user to unlock the phone before providing the tag data to the app.
Background tag reading is designed to work only when a user's iPhone is in use in order to avoid unintentional tag reading. It also will not work if a device has not been unlocked, a core NFC reader is in session, Apple Pay Wallet is in use, the camera is in use, or Airplane mode is enabled.
The new background tagging function will allow an iPhone user to scan any NFC tag at a museum, store, or other location without first having to open up an app. Scanning an NFC tag will present a notification on the display, which can be tapped to launch an app.
Launching an app using this method requires a tap from the user, so it will not allow NFC-based methods to automatically launch apps sans user permission.
According to Apple, background NFC tag reading is a feature that's limited to the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. It is not supported on iPhone X and earlier models.
At today's "Gather Round" event at the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California, Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted some new features that are coming to the HomePod through a software update set to be released next Monday.
The HomePod will gain a number of new features with the software update, which is going to come alongside iOS 12, tvOS 12, and watchOS 5.
Search for your favorite songs by lyrics using Siri
Create multiple timers
Make and receive phone calls right from the HomePod
Ping your iPhone or any of your Apple devices to find them in your home
HomePod is also going to work with Siri Shortcuts, a feature coming in iOS 12. According to Cook, Siri Shortcuts will "open up a world of apps" for HomePod.
Many of these new features are additions that HomePod users have been hoping for. The HomePod has been the butt of jokes for not being able to support more than one timer at once, and while it could be used as a speakerphone previously, the new phone call functionality will expand its usefulness as a standalone communication device.
All of Apple's fall software updates are set to be released on Monday, September 17, with the exception of macOS Mojave, which will see a release on September 24.
Apple today held its annual iPhone-centric event, and this year's keynote saw the debut of impressive new iPhone and Apple Watch models.
It took Apple two hours to introduce the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and Apple Watch Series 4 models, but we've recapped the entire event in just six minutes for our readers who want a no-frills overview of all the announcements.
The $999 iPhone XS and and $1,099 XS Max, Apple's two OLED devices in 5.8 and 6.5-inch sizes, were the star of the event, but Apple also introduced the 6.1-inch $749 iPhone XR and impressive new Apple Watch Series 4 models with larger displays, tweaked designs, and an ECG function for better than ever health monitoring.
We've rounded up all of our coverage of today's event in the post below, so make sure to check out everything so you don't miss any of the updates.
The iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and Apple Watch Series 4 will be available for pre-order on Friday, September 14, at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time ahead of a September 21 launch.
Apple's new iPhone XR will be available for pre-order on October 19 ahead of an October 26 launch.
Apple Watch Series 4 models include an electrical heart rate sensor that's designed to take an electrocardiogram (ECG) using an ECG app, the built-in sensor, and the electrodes included in the Digital Crown, but the ECG functionality won't be coming until later this year.
According to Apple's Apple Watch Series 4 website, the ECG app that will enable the electrocardiogram feature will be available later in 2018. That means at launch, the ECG feature won't be functional.
As several MacRumors readers have pointed out, it appears ECG readings are going to be limited to Apple Watch models sold in the United States. Apple Watch Series 4 pages for countries like the UK and Canada contain no mention of the feature, and Apple's press release for Series 4 models says ECG functionality is U.S. only.
To take an ECG reading from the Apple Watch, users will need to place a finger on the Digital Crown while wearing the watch. The reading is completed in just 30 seconds, allowing users to determine whether their hearts are beating in a regular pattern or if there are signs of atrial fibrillation, which can be an indicator of serious health problems.
Atrial fibrillation is a health condition that often goes undiagnosed, so the ECG feature in the Apple Watch will be highly useful for detecting early signs of disease. ECG readings also normally require a full ECG machine and a visit to the doctor, which is far less convenient than a reading taken with the Apple Watch.
Apple says that the ECG feature in the Apple Watch has been granted a De Novo classification by the FDA as outlined on the FDA's website [PDF], and the need for regulatory approval is likely why the ECG feature is not available in other countries.
De Novo FDA approval is a preliminary approval process granted to new devices that are not likely to cause harm. According to the FDA, the Apple Watch's ECG feature should be used only for informational purposes, should only be used by those over 22 years of age, and is not recommended for people with known arrhythmias.
The ECG app is a software-only mobile medical application intended for use with the Apple Watch to create, record, store, transfer, and display a single channel electrocardiogram (ECG) similar to a Lead I ECG. The ECG app determines the presence of atrial fibrillation (AFib) or sinus rhythm on a classifiable waveform. The ECG app is not recommended for users with other known arrhythmias.
The ECG app is intended for over-the-counter (OTC) use. The ECG data displayed by the ECG app is intended for informational use only. The user is not intended to interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional. The ECG waveform is meant to supplement rhythm classification for the purposes of discriminating AFib from normal sinus rhythm and not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment.
The ECG app is not intended for use by people under 22 years old.
Apple has also obtained FDA approval for the feature in the Apple Watch Series 4 models that sends notifications when an irregular heart rhythm is detected through the ECG feature or through standard Apple Watch heart rate monitoring.
All ECG data gathered by Apple Watch Series 4 models is stored in the Health app in a PDF format that can easily be shared with physicians.
Since the end of 2017, Apple has been offering battery replacements for a discounted price of $29 to appease customers who were upset at device throttling resulting from degraded battery performance.
When announcing the new inexpensive battery replacement pricing, Apple promised to offer the discounted price for the entirety of 2018.
Now that we're nearing the end of the year, Apple has provided us with an updated support document on what battery replacements will be priced at after the price drop expires.
Starting on January 1, 2019, battery replacements for the iPhone SE, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, and iPhone 8 Plus will be priced at $49, up from $29.
iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR battery replacements will cost $69, as will iPhone X battery replacements, and batteries for all older iPhones will cost $79.
At $49 and $69 for most devices, Apple is dropping the price of its battery repairs overall. Before the entire throttling snafu that resulted in the price drop, battery replacements cost $79.
Devices that are under an AppleCare+ or AppleCare+ Theft and Loss plan will not incur a fee if a battery replacement is required.
Customers with older iPhones that want to take advantage of the $29 battery replacement pricing should schedule a replacement before the end of 2018 before prices go up.
Following the introduction of Apple Watch Series 4 models at Steve Jobs Theater today, MacRumors and other media outlets were provided with some up-and-close hands-on time with the new lineup.
At first glance, the most obvious difference with Series 4 models is their larger displays, as Apple has significantly reduced the size of the bezels around the screen. The bezels now look similar to those on the iPhone X and newer, although the display is not completely edge to edge.
Apple says the larger displays provide 32 percent and 35 percent more viewing area on the new 40mm and 44mm models respectively, compared to the previous 38mm and 42mm models in previous generations.
Taking advantage of the larger displays, Apple has redesigned the entire watchOS interface to provide more information with richer detail. A new Infograph watch face can accommodate up to eight complications.
Series 4 models are also ever slightly thinner than Series 3 models, measuring in at 10.7mm, compared to 11.4mm. Apple didn't allow me to test my Series 3 band with a Series 4 model, but it did confirm that both new and existing bands are compatible with all Apple Watch generations.
Apple Watch Series 4 has a new electrical heart sensor on the back side for electrocardiography, often shortened to ECG or EKG. This potentially life-saving functionality can indicate whether your heart rhythm shows signs of atrial fibrillation, a serious form of irregular heart rhythm.
Series 4 introduces some finishes, including gold stainless steel casing and a gold Milanese Loop. The back side on all the new models is now crafted from sapphire crystal and ceramic, whereas some Series 3 models had composite backs.
On the side of Series 4 models, the Digital Crown features a thin circle, which is black on GPS configurations and red on LTE configurations. By comparison, nearly the entire Digital Crown is red on Series 3 models with LTE. In my opinion, the new, subdued look of the crown is more aesthetically pleasing.
Overall, the Series 4 models do not represent a full-out redesign of the Apple Watch, but the larger displays and improved health monitoring tools are much welcomed features that are worth considering upgrading for.
In person, The Verge said that the six new colors of the iPhone XR are all very vibrant, and the site particularly liked Coral and (PRODUCT)Red. Additionally, The Verge described the iPhone XR as noticeably lighter in comparison to the XS, and ultimately said that the XR will likely become the "default" iPhone for many users this holiday season.
I just spent a few moments playing with the new iPhone XR, which feels like it will be the default iPhone for many people this season. Not only does it have a very similar design to the more expensive iPhone XS model, it has many of the same features for a considerably lower price.
The iPhone XR comes in six different colors, including very nice-looking coral and blue options. The colors are extremely vibrant in person; the coral and red, in particular, are terrific. (They’re honestly a reason to get the XR over the XS if you don’t care about the other features like dual cameras and 3D Touch.)
In terms of downgrades from the iPhone XS to make the XR cheaper, Apple went for an LCD display instead of OLED, chose a single-lens rear facing camera instead of the dual lens on the XS, and removed 3D Touch. TechCrunch, like many outlets, said that if you don't miss these features then it's easy to see why the XR will be enticing, particularly if you want more color options.
Other than those differences, the iPhone XR has an A12 Bionic chip, a TrueDepth camera system, and Face ID -- just like the iPhone XS.
For most users, I suspect most of these elements won’t really be missed — unless, of course, you’ve already gotten comfortable with the iPhone X. While $749 is hardly “cheap” by the standards of mid-range handsets in 2018, it’s a pretty good entry-level price for an Apple handset. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of colors choices in the phone-buying process.
The XR feels like less of an afterthought, unlike the iPhone 8, which was hugely overshadowed by the iPhone X released alongside it. It looks and feels enough like the premium handset that, when coupled with the $250 price drop, it seems inevitable that Apple will sell a ton of the damn things.
Mashable reported that the rear camera on the iPhone XR is still impressive, despite the fact that it's not a true Portrait Mode effect like those produced by the dual cameras on iPhone XS or XS Max.
Noticeably impressive is the camera. It's got just a single rear camera (there's no 2x telephoto lens), but it's still stunning. The Steve Jobs Theater hands-on area was relatively well-lit, so it's hard to say how well the camera performs IRL, but that adjustable bokeh effect for portrait photos looks sick. Not so great: the even larger camera bump. The thing is massive.
A couple of minutes is obviously not enough time to get to know the iPhone XR, but at first blush, it looks like a winner. The colors will suck you right in. I'd totally buy the yellow one.
The iPhone XR will go up for pre-order this Friday, October 19, ahead of a launch one week later on October 26.
One of the new features included in Apple's high-end OLED iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max is improved water and dust resistance, with the two devices now offering an IP68 rating, equivalent to Samsung's Galaxy S9 smartphones.
The IP68 rating means the iPhone XS and XS Max can withstand water up to two meters (6.6 feet) deep for approximately 30 minutes. In this number, the IP6x rating refers to dust resistance while the 8 represents water resistance.
IP6x is the highest dust resistance rating, so the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are fully protected from dust and dirt. The new IP68 rating is up from the IP67 rating of previous iPhones.
Apple's iPhone XR is also water and dust resistant, but it is IP67 rated rather than IP68 rated, like the iPhone X. IP67 means that the iPhone XR can withstand immersion in water up to one meter (3.3 feet) for 30 minutes.
Apple does not cover any kind of water damage to its iOS devices, so it's always best to use caution when exposing a water resistant iPhone to liquids.
Apple also warns that seals against water resistance can weaken over time, which is another reason why it's best not to deliberately expose iPhones to moisture. In general, though, the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR will hold up to accidental splashes of water and rain.
The Apple Watch Series 4, also newly announced, continues to feature the same water resistance rating as the Apple Watch Series 3. It has a water resistance of rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010.
That means the Apple Watch Series 4 is suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or an ocean, but it should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing, or other activities that involve exposure to deep water or high-velocity water.
Spotify has increased the maximum number of offline downloads a subscriber is allowed as well as the number of phones and computers they can be stored across at any one time.
Apple today asked developers to begin submitting apps that take advantage of new features in 
