Apple debuted its long-awaited iPhone 4S at a crowded media event today in Cupertino, California.
Although the latest iteration of Apple’s popular handset lacks an external redesign, the iPhone 4S is loaded with a speedy dual-core A5 CPU which is expected to significantly boost graphics performance.
“While the iPhone 4S – a minor upgrade from the earlier version – may disappoint some high-end users, [we] believe that a strong market demand remains,” a TrendForce analyst told TG Daily in an e-mailed statement.
“The performance enhancement of the next-generation iPhone is expected to propel iPhone’ total sales and increase its market share. In fact, iPhone shipments in 2012 may surpass 100 million.”
As expected, the iPhone 4S retina display is unchanged, but fortunately, the new smartphone features two upgraded antennas that “intelligently switch” to send and receive.
The iPhone 4S also includes an advanced voice controlled asssistant dubbed “Siri,” battery life up to 8 hours, and a new camera with an 8-megapixel sensor which offers approximately 60% more pixels than the first-gen iPhone 4. According to Apple, the sensor boasts advanced face detection capabilities and accelerates camera speed while optimizing white balance.
Finally, the iPhone 4S shoots full-high-definition 1080p video and supports both GSM and CDMA, along with 14.4Mbps HSPA+ and EVDO.
The iPhone 4S will be available in AT&T, Verizon and Sprint stores on October 14th, with pre-orders kicking off on October 7th.
Pricing?
$199 for the 16GB model, $299 for the 32GB iteration and $399 for the new 64GB version. Note: The iPhone 4 will also be available for just $99, while the Phone 3GS will be available for free with a two year contract.
