The iPhone 11 will be available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB models in purple, green, yellow, black, white and PRODUCT(RED) starting at $699.
Cover The iPhone 11 will be available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB models in purple, green, yellow, black, white and PRODUCT(RED) (Image: Apple)

The company updated its popular smartphone line-up and also presented updates to its iPad tablet and Apple Watch smartwatch

Apple unveiled three versions of the iPhone 11 including "Pro" models with triple camera and other advanced features starting at US$999 (S$1,380) and US$1,099, unchanged from last year's prices, touting upgraded features including ultrawide camera lenses.

The new iPhones are "jam-packed with new capabilities and an incredible new design," Apple chief executive Tim Cook told a launch event in Cupertino, California.

Pre-orders for the new iPhone 11 series will begin in Singapore this Friday and sales will start on September 20.

At an Apple media event, price appeared to be a key consideration as the tech giant reduced the entry level price for the iPhone 11 to US$699 and undercut rivals for its gaming and streaming television subscriptions.

The surprise from Apple was the reduction in the starting price at US$699, down from US$749 for the iPhone XR a year ago even as many premium devices are being priced around US$1,000.

 

Tatler Asia
The iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max will be available in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB models in midnight green, space gray, silver and gold starting at $999 and $1,099, respectively.
Above The iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max will be available in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB models in midnight green, space gray, silver and gold starting at $999 and $1,099, respectively. (Image: Apple)

Content as sweetener

Apple's announcements appeared to be aimed at emphasising value as the company looks to shift its business model to reduce its dependence on smartphones and tie in digital content and other services to its devices.

"We got a stream of nonstop product launches, with content being used as a sweetener," said Avi Greengart, analyst and consultant with Techsponential.

"I think the iPhone 11 is compelling and may convince people to upgrade earlier than they might have otherwise given the lower price and longer battery life, not just an improved camera."

Tatler Asia
Apple Arcade subscribers will receive unlimited access to a catalog of over 100 exclusive games, playable across iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and Apple TV.
Above Apple Arcade subscribers will receive unlimited access to a catalog of over 100 exclusive games, playable across iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and Apple TV. (Image: Apple)

Streaming and gaming

Apple set launch dates for its original video offering, Apple TV+, and its game subscription service as part of efforts to reduce its dependence on the iPhone.

The TV+ service will launch November 1 in more than 100 countries at US$4.99 per month and will include a "powerful and inspiring lineup of original shows, movies and documentaries."

While Apple's streaming service will have limited content at first, its price is below the US$6.99 for the forthcoming Disney+ service and the more expensive plans from Netflix.

Apple is featuring scripted dramas, comedies and movies as well as children's programs in the service, which will compete against streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon.

"With Apple TV+, we are presenting all-original stories from the best, brightest and most creative minds, and we know viewers will find their new favourite show or movie on our service," said Zack Van Amburg, Apple's head of video.

Apple said customers who purchase an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iPod touch or Mac will get the first year of the service for free.

The company's online gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade, will launch next week, offering exclusive titles for mobile and desktop users.

The new service will include more than 100 game titles made for Apple devices and will be available in some 150 countries.

"You can't find these games on any other mobile platform or subscription service. No game service ever launched as many games, and we can't wait for you to play all of that," product manager Ann Thai told the Apple media event.

Apple also unveiled updates to its iPad tablet and Apple Watch smartwatch, emphasising stable or lower prices with cuts to older versions.

Topics