The Apple keynote has finally rolled around, and with it came some new and improved goodies. Although there were several updates on existing products and software - including iOS 9, iPad Pro, and improvements to the Apple Watch - I think everyone is most excited about the brand spankin' new iPhone 6s.
iPhone 6s and 6s Plus
There was a lot of speculation about whether they would bring back a smaller model, closer to that of the four inch iPhone 5s model. That turned out to be an unfounded rumor. However there was also speculation about multi-touch or 3D touch - and this one is true. Basically it means that on our current phones where you and I normally just tap to select or press for slightly longer for more options to appear, the 6s can recognize the amount of force you use while doing different motions. This helps create shortcuts and previews into messages, apps, playlists and more.
The 6s also brings updated and improved processing chip, LTE and camera function, meaning a faster phone, faster WiFi and clearer pictures. Another change is the expansion of color choices, with the addition of gold and rose gold bodies.
The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus will be available for pre-order Sept. 12, and ready in stores on Sept. 25.
iOS 9
This is part of the changes for the iPhone 6s, however it will be available on all models of iPhone from the 4s to the 6s so you won't necessarily have to go for a brand new phone.
Siri is getting a facelift that includes being able to find a photo in your camera roll, or FINALLY learning how to pronounce your name correctly. Maps is adding transit directions so you can keep tabs on which stop you're supposed to get off at and Notes is allowing you to draw small sketches and share your notes across platforms using continuity between your different Apple products.
News is creating a basic way to check all the headlines in one easy place. There's added security in the form of now requiring a six-digit passcode lock (rather than the four that is currently on iOS 8), as well as giving the option for a verification code that is sent to you iPhone when you log in to a new browser or on a new device. This also comes with an easy switch for new users, offering an Android app that allows (former) Android owners to switch over their contacts, photos and calendar events to their new iPhone with ease. They are also offering to recycle your Android device at any Apple store.
With all that being said, there are two things in particular I am most excited for with iOS 9: battery saving features (which can save you an extra hour of battery life) and an update that only requires 1.3GB - compared to the previous 4.58GB.
iPad Pro
Available in November, the iPad Pro is a whole new device. The largest iPad ever at 12.9 inches and a new "Smart Keyboard", Apple has brought forth a response to Microsoft's Surface tablets. The Smart Keyboard is made of extremely thin, lightweight conductive material, meaning that you never have to charge it. Another feature is the Apple Pencil. To be completely honest, before I looked at all the new products, when my boyfriend told me about this I thought he was kidding. It turns out it's actually a little cooler than I thought it would be, however I still can't quite get past the fact that it's a glorified stylus that you have to charge and costs $99. Yep, that's right folks, you can add shade to your digital iPad drawings, but it'll cost you $99. I'm sure this will be a great feature for some people, but I just really can't see myself shelling out that much for a stylus.
