Apple seems set on disrupting the mobile tech landscape once again with the launch of its new line of iPhones and the all-new Apple Watch wearable device, plus a slew of features new to the iOS platform.
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus marks the first time Apple has launched its smartphone line in two screen sizes, this time at an Android-chasing 4.7 inches and 5.5 inches respectively.
The design of both phones have also been significantly updated from that of the iPhone 5S, with a curvier silhouette and an ion-reinforced glass screen for better scratch and crack resistance.
Both models are now equipped with near-field communications (NFC) features allowing the iPhones to conduct tap-to-pay transactions, called Apple Pay, which works similiarly to Android’s Google Wallet method.
The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus will be available in 16GB, 64GB and 128GB storage variants, with pricing to be determined by carrier and distributor. US orders will be open from Friday onwards, and units will start shipping on September 19.
The new iteration of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS 8, will also be released on September 17 to all applicable iOS devices.
The announcement that got tech mavens the world over excited more than anything else, however, was the unveiling of the Apple Watch, the company’s entry into the wearble tech market.
The Apple Watch comes in two sizes: 38mm and 42mm, in three variants: the Apple Watch with a stainless steel bezel, the Apple Watch Sport with an aluminium bezel, and the 18-carat gold Apple Watch Edition, all with a varietyof straps to choose from.
The Apple Watch wearbles all come equipped with Apple’s signature voice-activated Siri assistance, and will be able to conduct NFC Apple Pay transactions like the new iPhones.
In a modification to the iOS touch interface language users have come to know and love, Apple has decided to introduce the Digital Crown with the Apple Watch, which will serve as a touch-sensitive button, clickwheel and zoom tool for the device that will not obstruct the user’s view of the watchface.
The Apple Watch is scehduled to go on sale in early 2015.
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