The Apple iPhone XS: 9 things to know before the conference

Apple will launch its latest batch of iPhone models – a trio of iPhone XS – that aims to fuel an upgrade cycle and satisfy the ecosystem of its customers, software developers and creative professionals. business. Here's an overview of moving parts and things to know before the Apple Opening Speech Wednesday at 1:00 pm ET. (Also, here's how to watch it.)

iPhone XS will be the star

The Apple iPhone XS is the head of the company's autumn product portfolio, but the trio of appliances highlights a year of gradual upgrade . So much about the latest batch of iPhones have already been leaked. For example, there will be three new iPhone models and each of them will fit the design of the iPhone X. Screen sizes should reach 6.5 inches. Apple will also launch a cheaper version of the iPhone X, with an LCD screen and a lower price – think $ 799. Add it and Apple ticks the boxes of the iPhone to continue to upgrade and subscribe to the ecosystem services of the company.

Also: New iPhone 2018, iPhone XS, iPhone X Plus, iPhone 9: rumors, leaks, launch date and all we know until now

Pricing is a mystery right now

Price is the greatest mystery and more important than ever. It is highly likely that the high-end iPhone XS will exceed the $ 1,249.99 ceiling set by the Samsung Galaxy Note 9. However, the most important price will be the lower device with an LCD screen. The most important question after obtaining the price range of the iPhone will be the reason why you pay for the high end iPhone XS.

Also: Why do people want a new iPhone? This research gives a fascinating clue

RIP Home button

The death of the home button and the scanning of fingerprints is more important than you and Apple think. Apple iPhones will rely on Face ID to open your phone. The problem is that face recognition is not as perfect as one might think. This reality is why ZDNet & # 39; s Jason Hiner is wary. As a user of iPhone X, I see the point. Touch ID was simply easier to use. There will be a period of adjustment for any Apple customer who is interested in the design of the iPhone X.

In addition: In his phone game, what are the favorite features of Apple?

The fatigue of the smartphone is real

Then there is the fatigue of smartphones. The environment that Apple faces has fundamentally changed. I hear more and more about Apple users who systematically move pictures, music – and other resources used by Apple to lock them – to other Google services. Why? They do not like being pinned to a single company. The development is interesting, since no one has ever said that about Apple years ago. Another thing that deserves to be mentioned is that none of these consumers leave the iPhone. They only diversify their service bets. Samsung is experiencing some fatigue in the high-end market and Apple will see some of it. Nevertheless, Apple is best placed to maintain higher pricing.

New iPad Pro with face ID

An iPad Pro could be attractive because at some point we will need to upgrade the iPad. Apple will focus on the iPad Pro, which represents the high end of the pricing continuum for the iPad portfolio. This iPad will use the face ID, reduce the dials, drop the home button and look like a big iPhone X. In other words, there is enough to do to get an upgrade. The prize will be the prize. When the low-end iPad (and probably the iPhone XS) supports Apple Pencil, you have to wonder if the premium is worth it. Apple will position the iPad Pro as a replacement laptop, which brings me to the next key point.

Also: Photos: Apple iPhone models through the TechRepublic years

A separate Mac event?

The faithful Mac could be disappointed again. Of course, there are rumors about a new MacBook when launching the iPhone XS. And, yes, there are even reports of a Mac mini. But the reality is that Apple will have a lot of moving parts on Wednesday and that there will probably be a separate Mac event. The new MacBook will be an essential update for the low-end and a replacement for the MacBook Air. The Mac mini will be designed to give creative professionals a reason to stay true to Apple. In general, the Mac is a little bit later these days.

Apple Watch could be the main draw

Apple Watch is becoming an increasingly important part of Apple's business. Yes, it has taken some time for the Apple smartwatch to become a big product, but it can not happen for sure. Apple's upgrades to Apple Watch – more options and pricing and a developing watchOS – are key elements of the iPhone XS launch event. Do not be surprised if the Apple Watch is the main draw.

Also: how Apple Watch saved my life

iOS 12 must be free of bugs

Apple needs a smooth launch of iOS 12. At WWDC, Apple explained how iOS 12 will bring stability, better performance, as well as tools to help you manage the time of day. ;screen. Apple executives will place a high value on iOS 12, and its mobile platform is critical to launching new iPhones. Apple needs to nail the update this year, because iOS 11 was not a cakewalk, and nothing limits the enthusiasm for new iPhones faster than a system. buggy operation.

Also: iPhone XS Max or iPhone XS Plus? The latest rumors before the CNET Apple Event

The iPhone is only a vessel

Everything revolves around stupid services. Apple services are selling at nearly $ 40 billion a year, Apple Music is about the same size as Spotify, Apple Care is selling well and iCloud generates recurring revenue. All in all, these iPhone models are really vases to sell you more services. Keep this in mind when thinking about upgrading.

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