Apple Releases New Cases for iPhone XS and XS Max

Alongside the new iPhone XS and XS Max, Apple has released new Silicone and Leather case options in a range of fall colors.

Priced at $39, Silicone Cases for the iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max are available in colors that include Nectarine (a reddish orange shade), Lavender Gray (gray with a touch of blue), Blue Horizon, Stone, Pink Sand, Midnight Blue, White, Black, and (PRODUCT)RED.

Leather Cases for the iPhone XS and XS Max, priced at $49, come in Peony Pink, Cape Cod Blue, Forest Green, Taupe, Midnight Blue, Saddle Brown, Black, and (PRODUCT)RED.

Apple is also selling Folio Cases for iPhone XS and XS Max, priced at $99 for iPhone XS and $129 for iPhone XS Max. The Folio Cases are available in Peony Pink, Cape Cod Blue, Forest Green, Black, and (PRODUCT)RED.

Apple has not yet released iPhone XR cases because that device will not be available to pre-order until October 19 ahead of an October 26 release date. Apple is likely to debut new cases for the devices closer to the launch date.

All of the new cases for the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max will be available for purchase this Friday when the two new high-end smartphones become available for pre-order.

Related Roundup: iPhone XsTag: September 2018 event
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Apple’s iPhone XS, XS Max and XR Won’t Ship With Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter

Since the headphone jack was removed from the iPhone with the launch of the iPhone 7, Apple has bundled iPhones with a Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter for customers who continue to have 3.5mm headphones.

With the launch of the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, Apple is discontinuing this practice and will not include the Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter.

On the “In the Box” section of the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR tech specs, no adapter is listed. The three devices will ship with EarPods with Lightning Connector, a Lightning to USB Cable, and a USB Power Adapter.

Apple’s new iPhone lineup also marks the discontinuation of the iPhone 6s and the iPhone SE, the last two iPhones that Apple sold with a headphone jack.

None of the headphones in the new lineup, which includes the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 8, and iPhone 7, have a headphone jack.

Apple is continuing to sell the Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter separately for $9.

Tag: September 2018 event
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Apple Watch Gains New Band Colors in Sport, Sport Loop, Leather, and Stainless Steel

Amid the reveal of the Apple Watch Series 4, today Apple refreshed its band lineup with new colors for Fall 2018. There is no major new Apple Watch band style this season, like the introduction of the Sport Loop and Woven Nylon following previous events, but there are quite a few new colors to match the new iPhone cases.

To start, there are three new Sport Band colors: Nectarine, Blue Horizon, and Lavender Gray. These join existing Sport Band colors like Stone, Midnight Blue, Pink Sand, White, Black, and (PRODUCT)Red. Sport Bands run for $49.00 in the United States. There are no new Nike Sport Bands being sold individually.

Next up, the Sport Loop has added five new colors: Cape Cod Blue, Nectarine, Hibiscus, Storm Gray, and Indigo. You can also still buy the Pink Sand, Seashell, and Black Sport Loops. These also sell for $49.00 on Apple.com.

In leather, the Modern Buckle has gained new Peony Pink, Forest Green, Cape Cod, and Ruby (PRODUCT)Red options, all available in 40mm case sizes only. The Leather Loop (44mm only) has received Forest Green and Cape Cod as well, and the existing Stone option remains available. All of these run for $149.00.

On the more expensive side of things, Hermès has four new bands. There are two new Double Tour options, in Indigo/Craie/Orange Swift Leather and Bordeaux/Rose Extrême/Rose Azalée Swift Leather. Both of these are color blocked and match exclusive watch faces found on Apple Watch Series 4 Hermès editions, and cost $489.00.

The other two new bands are the same colors in Single Tour, which runs for $339.00.

Lastly, there’s just one new color in the stainless steel section of Apple’s bands webpage: a new Gold Milanese Loop for $149.00. You can also still buy the Silver and Space Black Milanese Loop, and now the Space Black option is priced the same as all the others at $149.00.

All bands are now available to purchase on Apple.com.

Related Roundups: Apple Watch, watchOS 4, watchOS 5Tags: Apple Watch bands, September 2018 eventBuyer’s Guide: Apple Watch (Caution)
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Apple’s 2018 iPhones Continue to Ship With 5W Power Adapter

Despite rumors suggesting Apple’s 2018 iPhones might ship with an 18W adapter and a Lightning to USB-C cable to enable fast charging right out of the box, that didn’t end up being the case.

The iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR ship with the same standard 5W Power Adapter that’s traditionally included with iPhone models. The three devices also include a standard Lightning to USB-A cable, despite the fact that Apple’s current Mac lineup has been transitioned to USB-C.

Those who want to use fast charging on the new 2018 iPhones will continue to need to purchase an 18W+ power adapter and a USB-C to Lightning cable.

There are plenty of third-party 18W+ power adapters on the market (or you can get a 30W MacBook charger from Apple for $49), but Apple sells the only certified Lightning to USB-C cable at this time. Apple is planning to let other manufacturers make these cables, but third-party USB-C to Lightning cables aren’t expected until next year.

With fast charging, iPhone models are able to charge to 50 percent battery life in a 30 minute time span. iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR all support fast charging.

Tag: September 2018 event
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Apple Discontinues Apple Watch Edition

Apple’s new Series 4 Apple Watch lineup is missing the higher-end ceramic Apple Watch Edition models that were first introduced in 2016.

In fact, there are no higher-end Apple Watch Edition models at all this year, with Apple offering only GPS and GPS + Cellular Aluminum and Stainless Steel Series 4 Apple Watch options.

“Edition” models were first introduced alongside the original Apple Watch, with Apple offering solid gold Apple Watch options at prices that exceeded $10,000.

These models did not prove to be popular with consumers and Apple did not continue offering solid gold Apple Watch options beyond the original Apple Watch.

With the Apple Watch Series 2, Apple introduced “Edition” models that were made from ceramic priced starting at $1,299, which it continued offering when the Series 3 Apple Watches were announced.

Apple is continuing to sell Apple Watch Series 3 models as a low-cost option alongside new Apple Watch Series 4 models, but only in aluminum. Apple is no longer offering the Apple Watch Series 3 in stainless steel or ceramic, a material that has been discontinued.

The Apple Watch Series 4 is available in aluminum and stainless steel in colors that include Gold, Silver, Space Gray, and Space Black. Aluminum models start at $399, while stainless steel models are priced starting at $699. Stainless steel models start at a higher price point because all stainless steel models are equipped with LTE support.

With the launch of the Apple Watch Series 4 and the price drop on the Series 3 (which now starts at $279), Apple has also discontinued Apple Watch Series 1 models.

Apple Watch Series 4 will be available for pre-order on Friday, September 14, likely at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time. Orders will start shipping out on September 21, the launch date for the device.

Related Roundups: Apple Watch, watchOS 4, watchOS 5Tag: September 2018 eventBuyer’s Guide: Apple Watch (Caution)
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Apple Debuts New AppleCare+ Theft and Loss Plan Priced at $299 for iPhone XS and XS Max

Alongside the launch of the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, Apple has introduced a new AppleCare+ plan that’s designed to protect against theft and loss.

AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is priced at $299 (or $14.99 per month over 24 months) for the iPhone XS and XS Max and allows for two incidents of accidental damage, theft, or loss coverage, so long as the purchaser pays the deductible.

As with regular AppleCare+, Apple will repair accidental damage for $99, but a lost or stolen phone will be more expensive.

It will cost $199 to get an iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 6s or iPhone 6 replaced, and $229 to get an iPhone XR, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s Plus, or iPhone 6 Plus replaced.

For a replacement iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, or iPhone X, customers will need to shell out $269. Getting a new iPhone will require the device in question to have Find My iPhone enabled. Disabling the feature voids coverage, according to Apple.

AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss will be available as a purchase option when pre-ordering an iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max this Friday.

It will also be available for the iPhone XR when that device becomes available, and based on the pricing of the plan for the iPhone 8 Plus, it will cost $249 or $12.99 per month for 24 months.

Apple is continuing to sell standard AppleCare+ that offers coverage for two incidents of accidental damage but no theft or loss coverage. Regular AppleCare+ for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max will cost $199, so the Theft and Loss coverage is $100 more expensive.

Tag: September 2018 event
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iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max to be Available SIM-Free at Launch

Apple will offer SIM-free iPhone XS and iPhone XS models for pre-order according to Apple’s website, which means customers will be able to purchase the new smartphones without a carrier.

The SIM-free models are not always offered for newly launched iPhones, especially when supplies are tight, so the availability of SIM-free models suggests iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max supply will be plentiful this year.

SIM-free models are unlocked and can be activated with any carrier at a later date, making them an appealing purchase choice.

To purchase a SIM-free device, the outright price must be paid upfront. The iPhone XS starts at $999, while the iPhone XS Plus starts at $1,099. Apple plans to begin offering pre-orders this Friday, likely at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time based on past iPhone launches.

Related Roundup: iPhone XsTag: September 2018 event
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iPhone XS Hands On: XS Max Feels ‘Shockingly’ Light, Killer Features are Depth of Field Slider in Photos and Dual SIM

Apple’s latest event has come to a close, and that means the press is now getting a chance to go hands-on with the newest iPhones: the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max. While largely similar in design to the 2017 iPhone X, the new models pack in a few new features that are distinct from the previous generation, namely the XS Max’s large new 6.5-inch display.

According to The Verge, the iPhone XS Max actually “feels much better than any ‘Plus’ iPhone ever has,” thanks to a more ergonomic fit in the hands.

The iPhone XS Max is bigger, yes, but as you can see in the photos (below), it is almost hard to distinguish the two when you’re looking at photos. It feels much better than any “Plus” iPhone ever has. I always found the Plus-sized iPhones to be ungainly, but the Max seems to be a little more ergonomic in subtle ways. If you’ve wanted a Plus before but were put off by the size, I’d at least try to hold the new Max size before making your decision.

Although Engadget warned that the iPhone XS Max approaches “smartphone overkill” with its size, they ultimately admitted that the device is “shockingly” light.

And then there’s the iPhone Xs Max, which is the closest Apple has ever come to full smartphone overkill. That’s mostly because of the phone’s massive display — at 6.5-inches diagonal, this is the biggest screen that Apple has ever squeezed into a smartphone. To say it’s a handful is putting it very mildly, but here’s the really crazy thing: it’s surprisingly light, almost shockingly so. That might not sound like something to get worked up over, but take it from me, a habitual phablet fan: every fraction of an ounce a company can shave off a phone’s weight means my old-man wrist won’t hurt quite as much in the long term.

TechRadar came away impressed with the camera quality on the XS, but said that this line of iPhones feels like one of the more disappointing “S” generations, given how it’s missing many standout features that make it recognizably different from the previous models.

There’s always something so disappointing about the ‘S’ years of the iPhone – sure, it makes business sense for Apple given it can still command sales without having to redesign the phone every time, but without a new shape it’s not as easy to explain to buyers why it’s worth buying.

There are some decent improvements in the mix – notably the capacity, the louder speakers and the more colorful screen – but beyond that, many will likely be torn between last year’s iPhone X that will now be cheaper and having the latest iPhone as we can’t say the upgrades we saw were many and overpowering. The iPhone XR seems more of an impressive feat from Apple, to be honest.

Numerous publications pointed out some potential killer features of the iPhone XS include the bokeh effect slider in Portrait mode, as well as Dual SIM support. Dual SIM lets users integrate two separate phone numbers in one device, with one being a physical SIM card and another being an eSIM (China will get a version that supports two physical SIM cards).

Slash Gear called this a “potential gamechanger” for the iPhone XS lineup.

The other potential game-changer is dual-SIM support. To be accurate, only one version will have the ability to accommodate two physical SIM cards: a dual-SIM version of the iPhone Xs Max intended for China. Everywhere else will use a combination of one physical SIM and eSIM. That means carriers will need to play ball, and while Apple has a list of early compatibility, there’s still a reasonable chance that your operator of choice may not be up to speed.

More information on the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max can be found in our launch post, and if you want to catch up on the event itself Apple has posted the full video to its website.

Related Roundup: iPhone XsTag: September 2018 event
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eSIM in iPhone XS, XS Max and iPhone XR Won’t Be Available at Launch, Apple to Activate Later

The new iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR models all come equipped with support for dual-SIM functionality through the inclusion of a standard nano-SIM slot and an eSIM, a feature that has previously been used in iPad models.

According to Apple’s website, eSIM functionality will not be available when the new iPhones launch, with the company instead planning to introduce it later this year through an iOS 12 software update.

Dual-SIM support will allow the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR to support two cellular plans at once. This is useful for people who have two phone numbers for work and personal use and for travel.

Both numbers used with a dual-SIM iPhone can make and receive voice calls and receive SMS and MMS messages, but an iPhone can only use one cellular data network at a time. That means if one number is on a call, a call to the other number will go to voicemail.

There will be a section in the iOS 12 settings to establish a default number and to label both cellular plans that are in use, with Apple outlining these features in a support document. You will be able to easily make and receive calls from both numbers and switch phone numbers for a call.

Not all carriers are going to support eSIM functionality, but in the United States, it will work with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile devices.

Dual-SIM functionality will be available in all new iPhone models and it appears to be available in all countries, despite rumors suggesting it could be limited to countries where multiple SIM use is more popular.

eSIMs are not allowed in China, so in this region specifically, Apple is introducing iPhones that support two physical SIMs. Other countries will have devices that support one physical SIM and one eSIM.

Related Roundup: iPhone Xs
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Samsung Galaxy Note 9 accessories round up

The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is an expensive phone, there is no way to get around that. As such it is only wise to want to protect your investment. Below you’ll find some great cases and one of the best screen protectors around to keep your new Galaxy Note 9 looking new.

Read More: Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Full Review

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Rugged Protective Cover Case

I found the back of the Rugged Protective Cover Case didn’t offer a lot of grip but it does offer a lot of protection. The buttons were easy to find and click, and all the openings for ports were easily accessible. However, the true benefit of this case is the stand built into the back making it easy to prop up the Note 9 for taking photos or enjoying videos.

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Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Clear View Standing Case

I don’t particularly like folio type cases but the Clear View case stood out to me in a big way. The front cover appears to be opaque yet allows you to view the always on display. This is a great way to be able to check the time and notifications without ever having to open the folio case.

While that was the most impressive part of this case it still had another trick up its sleeves. You can fold it out into a stand for watching videos or taking photos with the new S-Pen. All in all this is the most impressive folio case I’ve ever used. A drawback to using folio cases though is the volume and Bixby button are difficult to find unless you physically look at the phone.

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Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Silicone Cover Case

Out of all the cases I tried, the Silicone Cover was by far my favorite although I would have preferred it in another color such as the black one. The silicone used on this case was so soft and provided a fantastic grip when holding the phone. The buttons were easy to find and press and the cutouts left plenty of space. The only downside was it could stick in your pocket a little and pick up lint.

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Samsung Galaxy Note 9 LED Wallet Cover Case

While I don’t particularly like folio cases, I really wanted to love the LED Wallet case. The color looks great and the retro feel of the LED clock is super cool. Unfortunately, the clock doesn’t stay on all the time and the smell of this case was terrible. It had that new plastic smell and I could not tolerate it and had to remove the case. Even days later the smell remained and I couldn’t force myself to use it.

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UAG Plasma Series Galaxy Note 9 Case

Things to love about the Plasma Series of cases from Urban Armor Gear are the industrial sci-fi design, rubberized grip, and it meets military drop test standards. It was a really nice case that offered plenty of protection, but the one flaw was the buttons were not easy to find.

Due to the buttons being flush with the case and all of the texture throughout I could never tell when my fingers were actually on the buttons. Unfortunately, this had me bringing up Bixby when I wanted to adjust the volume and was quite annoying. Otherwise, it’s a unique looking case that offers great protection.

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UAG Plyo Series Galaxy Note 9 Case

Many of the same benefits of the Plasma series are present on the Plyo series from Urban Armor Gear. This includes meeting military drop-test standards, a protective lip for the front screen, and compatibility with Samsung Pay and fast wireless charging. I actually preferred the more simple design of this case. However, it is a pity it also shares some of the drawbacks such as buttons that are hard to discern through touch alone.

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Whitestone Dome Glass Screen Protector

As Gorilla Glass has gotten stronger against cracks it has gotten weaker against scratches. For this reason, having a screen protector these days is essential on your phone. When it comes to a high-quality glass screen protector you can’t do much better than the Whitestone Dome Glass protector.

It is made to fit the curved screen of the Galaxy Note 9 without showing any colors along the edges. It uses a frame system allowing you to line up the protector perfectly and prevents bubbles during installation.

The only downsides are it can be a bit pricey, involves a pretty complicated install process, and the glue smells awful and takes days to dissipate. In fact even days later I could still smell the glue when the phone was close to my face.

Regardless, I’ve never felt a glass screen protector that felt as good as the original glass on the phone. It also did a great job of covering the curved edges and showed no signs of peeling days later.

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