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Apple has confirmed rumours surrounding its new iPhone 5 models, revealing both the cost-efficient iPhone 5C and more powerful iPhone 5S.
The iPhone 5C has "all the incredible technology of the iPhone 5," Apple’s Phil Schiller stated during today’s event in Cupertino, California. Unlike the rest of the smartphone series, the cheaper 5C comes in a host of hues including yellow, green, white, blue and pink.
The 5C differs a bit tech-wise from its predecessor, still keeping the A6 chip, but also carrying a 4-inch retina display, full sRGB standard and an improved battery capacity over the iPhone 5.
The 16GB iPhone 5C will cost just $99 with a two-year contract, while the 32GB model will cost $199. Apple is also launching colorful silicone cases for the device that go for $29.
The iPhone 5S is touted as a more powerful, high-end edition of Apple’s smartphone line. It will be made available in gold, slate and space gray” colors. It will carry a new chip called the A7, which allows Apple’s first-party apps to run in 64-bit – a first for smartphones, according to Schiller.
The new model is said to run five times faster than the currently available iPhone 5, utilizing OpenGL|ES 3.0 for improved graphical processing.
The 5S will support a new co-processor called the M7, which works alongside the A7 chip to continuously measure the device’s gyroscope, accelerometer and compass. The chip can tell apps (such as exercise programs) what the phone’s user is doing at any given time based on the readings.
The phone will boast a fingerprint sensor called Touch ID as well – a built-in feature utilized via the home button of the 5S. It allows registered users to unlock their phone, authenticate iTunes purchases and gain access to secured info with a single thumb press.
Unlike the 5C, the 5S is composed of high-grade aluminum with chamfered edges. It also includes other minor improvements over the iPhone 5, such as larger pixels, an enhanced camera and extended battery life.
The iPhone 5S 16GB costs $199 with a two-year contract, while the 32GB model runs $299 and the 64GB model goes for $399. Pre-orders for the iPhone 5S and 5C begin this Friday, September 13th, and both phones will be available to purchase in select regions next week on September 20th.
