Apple reveals $429 iPhone, 60% faster iPad and powerful new Mac
Big Tech loves big announcements. Whether it’s a virtual or in-person event, companies want the world to know what they’ve been up to. Apple is known for its large-scale events, which have included the unveiling of the iPod, iPhone, iPad and more.
Last October, Apple announced the third-generation AirPods, which use Apple’s new spatial audio. The MacBook Pro got new sizes and a powerful M1 chip. The HomePod mini got some new colors. Tap or click here for our report on the announcement.
Apple’s first hardware event of the new year took place Tuesday. As expected, the Cupertino company unveiled a new budget-friendly iPhone and other products. Read on for our rundown of Apple’s Peek Performance event.
iPhone SE
The latest entry in Apple’s budget-friendly SE line now uses the A15 Bionic chip (the same one that powers the iPhone 13), which improves photography, gaming and augmented reality experiences. 5G comes to the SE with faster uploads and downloads and lower latency.
The new iPhone SE has longer battery life than the previous generation and older 4.7-inch iPhone models. It’s compatible with Qi-certified chargers for wireless charging and supports fast charging. The third-generation iPhone SE has the classic Home Button with TouchID.
The new iPhone SE starts at $429 and is available for preorder beginning Friday, March 11, with availability beginning Friday, March 18.
iPad Air
The fifth-generation iPad Air gets the M1 chip from the iPad Pro, which means 60% faster performance and 2x faster graphics performance than the previous iPad Air. Now with 5G, the iPad Air can reach speeds of up to 3.5Gbps.
The USB-C port now charges twice as fast with data transfers up to 10Gbps. The 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage automatically pans to keep you in view during video calls. The 12MP Wide rear camera can shoot in 4K. The iPad Air is compatible with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2.
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When it comes to the latest in tech news, Big Tech loves to put on a show. These events provide a world stage for companies to show off their latest gadgets and other advancements. The shows have become mostly virtual due to the pandemic, but the hype and showcasing have not slowed down.
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When it comes to new product roll-outs, Apple tends to march to its own drum. The tech giant doesn’t usually participate in industry-wide yearly events like CES or E3 — it opts to announce new products and upgrades at its own special events instead.