A year can come and go fast. In terms of consumer technology, One year can feel like 5, and 5 years can feel like 30. Just look at how far we have come since the original iPhone was released in 2007.
That said, Apple made some innovative, if not surprising, announcements this week. If you are in the market for a new iPhone, Apple Watch, or iPad, or even some new subscription services, there is something for everyone.
iPhone
The true star of the show is the perennial iPhone. This year we are getting three new models to choose from: The iPhone 11, and the top of the line Pro, and Pro Max.
Starting at $699, the iPhone 11 is the best choice for most people. It’s rear camera boasts two lenses -- one wide angle lens, and one super wide angle lens. In addition it has an hour more of battery life than the XR, and has the latest A13 bionic processor.
If that’s not enough for you, the iPhone Pro offers 3 lenses on the rear camera -- wide, super wide, and telephoto. If you take photography or cinematography seriously, this is 100% the phone for you. At $999 and $1099 for the iPhone Pro, and Pro Max respectively, you are getting professional quality, however, the cheaper iPhone 11 model should suit most needs.
Apple Watch
While this seems to be a minor incremental improvement over last year’s Series 4, The Apple Watch Series 5 now has an “always on” screen, longer battery life, and the addition of a built in compass. In addition, they have a wider variety of materials such as titanium, and ceramic.
If you are in the market for a new Apple Watch, this is definitely the one to get, but if you have a series 4, don’t bother as this is mostly the same model with a few enhancements.
iPad
Most surprising in this event was the announcement of a new entry level iPad model. Last year we were thrilled to see the new iPad Pro line, so this might seem like a step down, but keep in mind that the base model iPad, which starts at $329, is an extremely versatile device, and unless you need the extra power for video production or as a music studio, most people can get away with the less expensive iPad. While this iPad doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the iPad Pro line, it does support both the Apple Pencil and Keyboard accessory. Also this model is positioned for the educational market. As members of the Adelphi community, you can likely take advantage of the discount offered for education, which is $299.
Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade
A few years ago, Apple made its debut in the subscription services business with Apple Music. Last year they announced News + which offered unlimited access to popular digital magazines. This year we are seeing two new subscription services in the form of Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade.
Apple TV+ will provide access to new original series such as the alternate history moon landing drama, “For All Mankind,” The Steve Carrell / Jennifer Aniston vehicle, “The Morning Show”, and a remake of one of my own favorite childhood shows, “Ghostwriter.”
At $4.99 / month, this is definitely a bargain, however it’s small-ish library of original content, leaves a lot to be desired compared to Netflix, and the upcoming Disney Plus services for a few dollars more.
Also at $4.99, Apple Arcade will provide unlimited access to a growing library of iOS games.
Final Thoughts
After each Apple Keynote, I think that there's no possible way they can top themselves. Each year, I'm always proven wrong. They seem to push the envelope in both hardware and software each year, with this year being no exception.
