iPhone XS and XS Max: Cool New Cameras but NOT a Massive update

So Apple had their Keynote last night for the launch of their 3 new phones: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR and even thought the specs and designs were leaked it was still a great show to watch.

iPhone XS and XS Max seemed like the classic Apple S incremental updates although the cameras and image processing might actually be interesting. The iPhone XR might be the best part of the event, see a separate article here.



Highlights:

A12 bionic processor, 7nm technology which means it will run faster. They said 30% faster here and there but it's going to need a lot of testing.

iPhone XS (5.8'' display) and XS Max (6.5″ display) have the same cameras a pair of 12 mp optically stabilized cameras. The primary one F/1.8 aperture and a telephoto 2X optical zoom. The photos they showed on stage were superb but it's to be expected with professional models, choosing a great location and the perfect light.

The improvement is in the image processing and this is the reason why the Google Pixel 2 probably still is the best option if you're into taking photos. Also better HDR call Smart HDR, better low light sensitivity, less noise. You can now adjust the bokeh/ blur level in portrait mode, which is not just adding more blur but works like actually changing the f/stop.

IP 68 water resistant, louder and better speakers, dual Sim support.

Prices:

iPhone Xs: $ 999; Pre-order 9.14; Available 9.21

iPphone Xs Max: $ 1099; 512GB version $1449 – extremely expensive; Pre-order 9.14; Available 9.2

iPphone Xr: $ 749; Pre-order 10.19 Available 10.26

They kept the notch which is not impressive at all seems like they are squizing every last cent of that notch design, which I get, it's a corporation it needs to make money but maybe they cold have made a notchless model this year, it would have been impressive.

They also had a small bit where they introduce the fact that they are going to use consummer recycled plastic in some of the components which is really great for the environment so kodos to that. Also they reiterated they have their buy-back program where you can send in your old phone, they'll evaluate it and if it still can be used by someone they'll pay you a certain amount of money if if it's not usable anymore they're going to recycle it efficiently. Personally I was very happy for this last bit.

Stay tuned for the iPhone XR impressions.

photo credit Apple