By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
TechgoonduTechgoondu
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
    • Software
    • Cybersecurity
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
    • Cellphones
    • Tablets
  • PC
  • Telecom
Search
© 2023 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Reading: Apple’s new A15 Bionic chip powers iPhone 13, iPad mini
Share
Aa
TechgoonduTechgoondu
Aa
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
  • PC
  • Telecom
Search
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
    • Software
    • Cybersecurity
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
    • Cellphones
    • Tablets
  • PC
  • Telecom
Follow US
© 2023 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Techgoondu > Blog > Mobile > Cellphones > Apple’s new A15 Bionic chip powers iPhone 13, iPad mini
CellphonesMobile

Apple’s new A15 Bionic chip powers iPhone 13, iPad mini

Grace Chng
Last updated: September 15, 2021 at 3:28 PM
Grace Chng Published September 15, 2021
8 Min Read
SHARE
  • The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, the premium models in the new iPhone range, come in four colours. PHOTO: Handout

Apple’s self-designed Bionic microprocessor is central to the more than half-dozen new iPhone, iPad and Watch devices that promise faster speeds and better graphics performance.

Unveiled yesterday in a 80-minute pre-recorded product segment were the four versions of the iPhone 13, including two premium models. Also shown off were two iPads, one of which was the long-awaited redesign of the iPad Mini, and the Apple Watch Series 7.

These new products were what the market expected. However, absent from the line-up were Macbooks and AirPods. With three more months to go, Apple may yet have another slate of new products in time for the Christmas gifting season.

iPhone 13

There are smaller notches – those big, dark camera cutouts at the top of iPhone screens.

Plus, major improvements to the cameras, including big sensors to let in more light to take slightly better photos in low light and easier to see under bright sunlight. The improved features are powered by the six-core A15 Bionic processor.

The phones’ CPU is to up to 50 per cent faster than competitive smartphone chips, with 30 per cent better graphics performance, according to Apple. The screens on the new models are also 28 per cent brighter than the previous generation, it claims.

The improved battery life will be happy news for users. Compared to last year’s models, each iPhone 13 should last at least 90 minutes longer on a single charge.

The baseline mainstream model is the iPhone 13, which will come in two versions – a 6.1-inch regular model and a smaller 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini. The premium models are the 6.1-inch iPhone Pro and 6.7-inch Pro Max.

All support a new feature called Cinematic mode, designed to help creators shoot and edit better footage from their device.

  • The new Apple iPhone 13 is powered the company’s self-designed A15 Bionic chip that promises zippier performance. PHOTO: Handout

This mode can track where the video’s subject is looking and adjust the camera’s focus accordingly. It also enables video editors to manually edit the depth of field and bokeh levels in their footage after capture.

iPhone 13 Pro users will be able to use ProRes, a feature which makes use of the extra camera lens on the device to create more professional looking footage. Expect to see more filmmakers and amateurs make films in a different way.

The premium models also sport improved telephoto lenses plus MotionPro displays that adjust their refresh rate for smoother, more immersive experiences.

I like the 6.7-inch screen of the Pro Max as its display would make reading more comfortable. But 512GB storage will be sufficient for me.

As a nod to creators and wannabe filmmakers, there is a storage option of 1TB for the premium models. However, there are also 128GB, 256GB and 512GB options. The phones are available in graphite, gold, silver, and the all-new sierra blue.

The iPhone 13 Pro starts from S$1,649, while the 13 Pro Max starts from S$1,799. The premium version of the phones come in five new colours, namely pink, blue, midnight, starlight and red.

The iPhone 13 will retail from S$1,299 while the 13 mini starts from S$1,149. Users can choose these new models in pink, blue, midnight, starlight or red. Storage for these baseline models are 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.  

All are available from Sept 24.

iPad

The iPad mini had a makeover, a much needed one since its debut in 2012. It sports slimmer bezels, an A15 Bionic chip and a larger, 8.3-inch display.

There is no home button. A Touch ID sensor that allows users to unlock the device, log-in to use apps or to use Apple Pay, is incorporated within the top-mounted power button.

This tablet also supports 5G and Wi-Fi 6, works with the second-gen Apple Pencil, and features a 12MP ultrawide camera on the front.

Apple has also added USB-C support for connecting accessories like keyboards, monitors and external hard drives, in addition to charging.

  • The iPad mini gets a much-needed makeover. PHOTO: Handout

It is available in either 64GB or 256GB, and in four colours, namely purple, pink, starlight, and space gray. Wi-Fi models of iPad mini are available starting from S$749 and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at S$979. 

A new more affordable iPad (ninth generation) features the last-generation A13 Bionic chip which is said to deliver a 20 per cent performance boost.

It features a 10.2-inch display and a 12MP ultrawide front camera. It comes in either 64GB or 256GB storage model. Prices start from S$499 and it is available from Sept 24.

The iPad Mini is nifty, good to carry around for surfing and reading. However, if I get the iPhone Pro Max and use my existing 12-inch iPad Pro, I am already set up.

Apple Watch

The Apple Watch Series 7 has softer, more rounded corners and a screen area that is almost 20 per cent larger than the last model. Its borders are also 40 per cent thinner.

The bigger screen offers greater readability and ease of use. It can now hold almost 50 per cent more text, said Apple.

I have so far refrained from typing any text in the Watch other than a Yes or No response to messages. Perhaps with the bigger screen I may type more text especially now that there is a new virtual keyboard feature.

The Watch Series 7 has a larger screen with rounded corners. PHOTO: Handout

Watch Series 7 also comes with two unique specially designed watch faces — Contour and Modular Duo.

Since I am cycling more, I like that the Apple Watch uses advanced algorithms to analyse GPS, heart rate, accelerometer, and gyroscope data to detect when a ride begins.

The watch has an 18-hour battery life, and charges up to 33 per cent faster than the previous model. Prices start at from S$399. It starts shipping later this year.

So what will I buy?

The iPhone 13 Pro Max, which is larger and brighter, easier for reading and messaging and viewing videos. For Christmas, maybe the Apple Watch Series 7.

You Might Also Like

Sony Playstation VR2 review: An immersive experience awaits

Debate on computational photography misses what’s real, what’s lived outside a frame

Get the best Mac-friendly monitors for colour-perfect design work

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review: Impressive flagship design, performance

Hands on: Oppo Find N2 Flip looks promising for those seeking foldable phones

TAGGED: A15, Apple, apple watch, Bionic, iPad mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro Max, Singapore price and availability

Sign up for the TG newsletter

Never miss anything again. Get the latest news and analysis in your inbox.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Grace Chng September 15, 2021
Share this Article
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn Copy Link Print
Share
Avatar photo
By Grace Chng
Follow:
A seasoned writer, author and industry observer, Grace was the key tech writer for The Straits Times for more than three decades. She co-founded and edited Computer Times, later renamed Digital Life. She helmed this publication, the de facto national IT magazine, for nearly 19 years. Grace is also the editor and co-curator of Intelligent Island: The Untold Story of Singapore’s Tech Journey, a book highlighting Singapore’s ICT development.
Previous Article 5G prices in Singapore face pressure, as virtual operators ready trials
Next Article Goondu review: Nikon Z fc
Leave a comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Stay Connected

Facebook Like
Twitter Follow

Latest News

Sony Playstation VR2 review: An immersive experience awaits
Gaming March 21, 2023
Debate on computational photography misses what’s real, what’s lived outside a frame
Cellphones Imaging Mobile Software March 19, 2023
Get the best Mac-friendly monitors for colour-perfect design work
PC March 16, 2023
LG OLED Flex LX3 review: A bendable gaming monitor for the adventurous (and rich)
Audio-visual Gaming PC March 13, 2023
//

Techgoondu.com is published by Goondu Media Pte Ltd, a company registered and based in Singapore.

.

Started in June 2008 by technology journalists and ex-journalists in Singapore who share a common love for all things geeky and digital, the site now includes segments on personal computing, enterprise IT and Internet culture.

banner banner
Everyday DIY
PC needs fixing? Get your hands on with the latest tech tips
READ ON
banner banner
Leaders Q&A
What tomorrow looks like to those at the leading edge today
FIND OUT
banner banner
Advertise with us
Discover unique access and impact with TG custom content
SHOW ME

 

 

POWERED BY READYSPACE
The Techgoondu website is powered by and managed by Readyspace Web Hosting.

TechgoonduTechgoondu
Follow US

© 2023 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved | Privacy | Terms of Use | Advertise | About Us | Contact

Join Us!

Never miss anything again. Get the latest news and analysis in your inbox.

Zero spam, Unsubscribe at any time.
 

Loading Comments...
 

    Welcome Back!

    Sign in to your account

    Lost your password?