New iPhones and electric Minis
Tech Things #7
The timing of the iPhone announcement and being away in the Eastern Cape for the Dolphin Trail with limited connectivity was the perfect coincidence to send Tech Things out today. Apple made the biggest change to the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, which is redesigned in pearly shades that support Dynamic Island and a 48MP telephoto lens; features reserved for the Pro line. And of course, its biggest yet least surprising update: the switch to USB-C. This is thanks to an EU deadline for all phones sold to support wired charging through USB-C by December 28th, 2024.
The 15 and 15 Plus offer better value than the Pro lines if you factor cost vs. features. I would recommend these as default, unless you’re a creative or power user, then look at the 15 Pro or Pro Max. The biggest change here is a customisable action button and a robust titanium casing, which is lighter. The 15 Pro is now 187g compared to last year’s 14 Pro at 206g. The Pro Max is 221g vs. 240g. Though, two-year upgrade cycles are debatable. Smartphone sales are on a decline globally because we’re holding onto devices for longer, so three year iPhone cycles work given iOS support. Speaking of, iOS17 releases globally on Monday, 18 September (around 7pm SA time); looking forward to playing around with it! PS I’ll be chatting iPhone tonight on The Money Show with Bruce Whitfield at 18:50 on Cape Talk and 702.
Last week I returned from Germany to check out next-generation BMWs and Minis, which includes some electric and hydrogen options, plus a new Countryman EV. I have a bunch of stories in the pipeline that I will share later on, but for now, you can catch up on the next-gen electric Minis with its eye-catching round OLED display and infotainment system. What do you think, enough to ditch CarPlay and Android Auto? Also, between the electric Mini and Volvo EX30, which to choose?
Here’s my tech tip this week on how to keep your phone or laptop insurance premiums down. I’ve been doing it for years:
Oh, if you haven’t yet caught part two of a learning partnership with FNB and Recharged, I chat about all things eBucks. As a traveller, I highlight what I’m most excited about; you can read more here or just watch the TikTok here.
Till next time,
Nafisa