10 September, 2015

Apple launches a stylus, but what would Steve Jobs think?

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iPadPro_Pencil_Lifestyle2-PRINT — iPad Pro with Apple Pencil

Apple has launched a suite of new products and updates including an Apple Pencil stylus for its iPad.

Former chief executive Steve Jobs famously hated the idea of a stylus and at the launch of the iPhone in 2007 said: “Who wants a stylus? You have to get ‘em and put ‘em away and you loose ‘em, yeuch.”

The new iPad Pro is larger than it’s predecessor and has a 33cm screen, which accommodates the Apple Pencil for drawing and sketching and offers “incredible accuracy for activities like fine art illustration and detailed 3D design,” according to the company.

New iPhone has pressure sensitive touch screen

Meanwhile the new iPhone has a pressure sensitive touch screen. The iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus feature “3D touch” which can sense force, allowing users to “peak and pop” by glimpsing content with a light touch or drilling down into it further with a heavier touch.

Apple claims the glass on the new model is tougher than that of any other smart phone on the market.

The iPhone’s two cameras have been boosted to 12 megapixels and five megapixels, while the new Live Photos functionality means “still images are brought to life by seeing a moment in motion,” according to Apple. It also offers 4K video for the first time.

Apple TV overhaul

Apple TV’s rumoured upgrade has been confirmed. The service which allows users to watch programmes through apps has an all new interface and a remote control featuring Siri voice control so you can use your voice to search for title, genre, cast, crew, rating or popularity.

A new iOS9 upgrade was announced for iPhone, iPad and iPod, as well as the new OS2 upgrade for Apple Watch, which has been given a range of new cases and bands.

The new watch range includes a brand tie up with Parisian watchmakers Hermès. Apple chief design officer Jonathan Ive says: “Apple and Hermès make very different products, but they reflect the deep appreciation of quality design.”

“Both companies are motivated by a sincere pursuit of excellence and the desire to create something that is not compromised. Apple Watch Hermès is a true testament to that belief.”