Apple on Friday finally released its long-awaited next-generation smartphone, the iPhone 4S.
Apple Stores opened at 8am local times, allowing those waiting in line to get first dibs on the new device. It is also available at AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and Sprint retail stores, as well as Best Buy. The 16GB device is selling for $199.99, the 32GB is $299.99, and the 64GB is $399.99, all with a two-year service contract. An unlocked version will set you back an additional $449.
After months of speculation, Apple finally announced the iPhone 4 on October 4 and started taking pre-orders last Friday. On the outside, it is basically identical to the iPhone 4, but on the inside, it boasts Apple's new dual-core A5 processor, a super-charged camera, iOS 5, and Siri-backed voice recognition, among other things. PCMag got some hands-on time with the device at the event, but check back for a full review shortly.
The iOS 5 operating system, and iCloud, made its debut yesterday. For more, check out How to Get Apple's iOS 5 as well as PCMag's full review of iOS 5 and our Hands On With Apple iCloud.
Not sure which carrier is right for you? Check out PCMag's voice and data plan comparison chart for AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint. At this point, Sprint is the only carrier offering unlimited data on the iPhone.
Sadly, the iPhone 4S release came just one day before Apple co-founder and former CEO Steve Jobs passed away. Apple made the announcement last Wednesday night, prompting fans to flock to Apple stores around the world to remember the tech icon. Everyone from President Obama and members of Congress to tech rivals (like Google) and artists sent their condolences.