As Apple has done for over a decade, the company released a new iPhone in September that was expected to offer significant advantages over previous models. With the iPhone still maintaining a healthy 11.1 percent global market share, many industry analysts expected the new iPhone to continue to lead the industry in processing power, photo capabilities, and novel features.
Overall, the new iPhone 11 has succeeded at overtaking many of the leading phones that were introduced over the last year. However, potential buyers should explore the range of new features to decide if the phone is right for them.
Is iPhone 11 Worth the Hype?
Anyone who has followed technology news this year knows that articles were written about expected improvements and potential designs for the new iPhone.
Since the iPhone 11 was officially unveiled on September 10, 2019, users with early access have been raving about some of the phone’s newest features. The most significant improvement was the phone’s camera that has followed in the footsteps of some of the leaders in the Android market to include up to three lenses.
Apple has also upgraded the processing power behind the slickly designed device. This has led to improvements in almost every area.
Advanced Photo Capabilities
The iPhone 11 features three cameras to provide both a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens. Apple has branded its wide-angle lens as an “ultra-wide” lens because it provides wide-angle capabilities similar to a GoPro or a professional camera lens.
In addition to these new features, the camera still provides two-times optical zoom capabilities. However, the phone can now optically zoom out to 0.5 times for very wide shots that capture an entire landscape. The front camera also has wide-angle capabilities to simplify capturing professional-quality selfies.
Industry-Leading Image Post-Processing
The CCDs in the iPhone 11’s rear camera is limited to 12 megapixels. Although 12 megapixels is more than enough for capturing ordinary shots, some professionals often want larger images, so they can modify them on their computer later.
The new iPhone almost eliminates the need for manual post-processing because the phone uses machine learning to automatically enhance images. When you capture images in low light, for instance, the phone’s software automatically adjusts brightness, contrast, and color levels to make the image look as though it was captured in good lighting conditions. The phone’s post-processing capabilities are unprecedented in a smartphone and produce images that are truly of professional quality.
Improved Location Tracking
Augmented reality is expected to grow in the coming years. As such, Apple has designed its latest iPhone to be prepared for the near future.
The phone features a special U1 chip designed by Apple to tap ultra-wideband signals for more accurate geolocation. The new tracking technology is a leap forward in location tracking since the iPhone 11 can now quickly determine its location in a way similar to an ordinary GPS. You will not, therefore, experience delays in getting your location when you visit parks or drive into the rural countryside.
Better Augmented Reality Experience
The iPhone 11 incorporates new technology that is better at determining the device’s position and angle in the physical environment. As such, Apple has taken advantage of these new capabilities in its native apps.
The improved AR capabilities aid the post-processing software in enhancing images to spectacular quality. For sharing large files, you can prioritize data transfers to other users through Airdrop by pointing your device at targeted users.
New Design
Apple has deviated from its usual design strategy by allowing buyers to choose between six different phone colors upon launch.
Apple has claimed that the glass in its latest iPhone is the “toughest glass in a smartphone.” There is little reason to doubt the manufacturer’s claims. The phone is highly resistant to scratches and will not shatter when you accidentally drop it.
The frame of the regular iPhone 11 is made from an aluminum body while the iPhone 11 Pro is made from surgical-grade stainless steel. The phone is even waterproof at a depth of up to four meters.
Improved Facial Recognition
Apple’s facial recognition capabilities were met with mixed reviews when they were first released with the iPhone X.
With the iPhone 11, Apple has ironed out most of the problems that users experience with facial recognition technology. The new wide-angle lens makes it easy to unlock your phone without having to look straight at it. The phone also unlocks twice as fast as with previous models.
Most importantly, it has gotten a lot more accurate to prevent relatives and other people who look similar to you from getting into your device.
Still a Few Drawbacks
Although Apple’s new iPhone remains on the cutting edge, it still has some significant drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of.
The phone is about 20 percent heavier than previous models because of the extra battery life that provides up to 18 hours of video streaming. Apple’s signature 3D touch capabilities have been removed, which can be frustrating for users who are accustomed to using this feature.
As with all Apple products, you cannot customize the color or design of menus. Accessing the file system of the device is also highly restricted, so you can only transfer downloaded files between your device and your computer by using third-party apps.
Is iPhone 11 Worth the Price?
The iPhone 11 is priced at $899, the iPhone 11 Pro is $999, and the iPhone 11 Pro Max is $1,099.
Only the Pro and Pro Max models feature the new wide-angle camera system and the extended battery. However, the regular model includes most of the other features, including Apple’s fastest A13 processor and the new operating system features. There is also a significant difference in the display technologies since the iPhone 11 comes with a 1792 by 828 LCD screen, while the Pro and Pro Max come with the full-resolution 2688 by 1242 OLED display.
To decide if the new iPhone 11 is worth its list price, you should conduct your own research online and consider trying out the device in a local store.