APPLE’S NEW PRODUCTS
While Apple is trying something new by focusing on subscription services, its refreshed product line is worth talking about too. This spring brought with it the return of the iPad mini and iPad Air, as well as the release of second-generation AirPods.
iPad Mini 5
The last time we saw a new iPad mini was back in 2015. Apple has been lax on its budget items lately, so it's nice to see Apple return to tech that's more affordable for the everyday consumer (starting at $399). Available now, The mini 5 squeezes a 7.9-inch display into an 8-inch by 5.3-inch chassis that weighs in at a mere 0.66 pounds. It offers an A12 bionic chip with Neural Engine, Laminated Retina display with True Tone technology, Touch ID, the same HD front and rear cameras as in the new Air, and up to 256 gigabytes (GB) of storage. The mini is also compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil and beats the new iPad Air's pixel density with 326 pixels per inch (ppi).
iPad Air
Apple has resurrected the iPad Air after having replaced it with the iPad Pro in 2016. A similar machine to the iPad mini 5 but with a larger display, the specs and the price (from $499) for the new iPad Air are looking pretty good in today's economy. Available now, the 10.5-inch iPad Air is incredibly slim and light at less than a quarter of an inch thick and weighs in at only one pound. The latest iPad Air is simply loaded with high-end features including an A12 Bionic chip and Neural Engine, which make augmented reality applications and 3D games available while doubling graphics capability and improving performance by up to 70 percent. Up to 256 GB of storage are available, and the Laminated Retina display features Apple's True Tone technology and pixel density of 264 ppi. The latest iPad Air also offers Touch ID, supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, and is compatible with Apple's Smart Keyboard. Front and rear-facing HD cameras are perfect for photography, videography, or just a FaceTime chat with friends.
AirPods
Apple's second-generation AirPods look just like their predecessors, but as we've all heard, it's what's on the inside that counts. The new H1 chip makes for a more stable wireless connection, 30 percent lower gaming latency, support for wirelessly charging the AirPods case, and improved battery performance. AirPods with a wireless charging case are priced at $199, while those with the standard case will set you back $159 (the same price as the original). If you'd like to hold on to your first-generation AirPods but upgrade to a wireless charging case, you can purchase one separately for $79. AirPods users can also now take advantage of the AI assistant Siri completely hands-free! You'll be able to adjust volume, make calls, check your AirPods' battery life, and much more without ever tapping your earbuds. At iPhone Life, we're big fans of Apple AirPods. The added convenience of faster connectivity, better battery life, and ability to toss the case on any Qi-certified wireless charger make it worth the purchase in our book.