On September 20, 2013, Apple released the iPhone 5c and 5s. The 5c came in different colors and was more affordable, while the 5s had advanced features. Both models offered something different to appeal to various people. The iPhone 5c had a plastic casing and vibrant color choices, and the iPhone 5s had a fingerprint sensor and a powerful A7 chip. They both had a new look and features with iOS 7. Apple’s aim was to attract more users with these new phones. This release made a big impact, showing Apple’s ability to keep innovating in the smartphone industry.
A Look Back: The Launch of the iPhone 5c & 5s
Unveiling and Release Dates
Apple officially unveiled the iPhone 5c and 5s on September 10, 2013, during a special event at its Cupertino headquarters. The phones hit the shelves shortly after, on September 20, 2013.
Initial Availability
The iPhone 5c and 5s were first available in a limited set of countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- China
- France
- Germany
- Australia
- Japan
- Hong Kong
- Singapore
Global Rollout
Apple gradually expanded the availability of the iPhone 5c and 5s to other countries in the following weeks and months.
| Release Date | Countries |
|---|---|
| October 25, 2013 | Italy, Russia, Spain, and more than 25 additional countries |
| November 1, 2013 | India, Mexico, and more than a dozen additional countries |
Key Features of the iPhone 5c and 5s
While both models shared some similarities, they had distinct characteristics:
| Feature | iPhone 5c | iPhone 5s |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Colorful polycarbonate body | Aluminum body, available in gold, silver, and space gray |
| Processor | A6 chip | A7 chip (first 64-bit processor in a smartphone) |
| Camera | 8-megapixel iSight camera | 8-megapixel iSight camera with True Tone flash and slow-motion video |
| Other Features | – | Touch ID fingerprint sensor |
End of Life
The iPhone 5c was discontinued on September 9, 2014, while the iPhone 5s was discontinued on March 21, 2016. Both models played a significant role in Apple’s smartphone history, with the 5c introducing a more affordable option and the 5s pioneering the Touch ID fingerprint sensor.
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone 5c and 5s were released on September 20, 2013.
- The 5c featured a plastic casing with vibrant colors while the 5s had advanced tech like a fingerprint sensor.
- Both models ran on iOS 7 and offered unique features for different users.
Release and Design Overview
The iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s were released in 2013 with key differences in design, functionality, and market positioning. This section explores their introduction and design features.
Market Introduction
The iPhone 5c and 5s were unveiled by Apple on September 10, 2013, and released on September 20, 2013. The iPhone 5c was available in various colors and aimed at a more budget-friendly market. Meanwhile, the iPhone 5s introduced advanced features such as the Touch ID fingerprint sensor for enhanced security.
In the U.S, the phones were available through carriers like AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. They were also sold through the Apple Online Store. The iPhone 5s targeted users seeking cutting-edge technology, while the 5c appealed to those wanting a stylish yet affordable option.
Design Elements and Materials
The iPhone 5s had a sleek aluminum design with a sophisticated look. Available in colors such as Space Gray, Silver, and Gold, it maintained the premium feel of previous models. The 5s also was lightweight and slim, making it easy to hold.
In contrast, the iPhone 5c had a colorful polycarbonate shell. It was available in vibrant hues like blue, green, pink, yellow, and white. This plastic back made it more resilient to scratches compared to metal. Jony Ive, Apple’s Chief Design Officer at the time, emphasized the fresh and energetic feel of the 5c. Both models had a 4-inch display but offered different tactile experiences.
The iPhone 5s introduced groundbreaking enhancements like Touch ID, which allowed secure unlocking and purchasing. The 5c, while not as advanced, offered a playful and durable design appealing to a different market segment.
Technical Specifications and Features
The iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s were notable for their unique features and hardware. The iPhone 5c focused on color options, while the iPhone 5s emphasized performance with the A7 chip and better camera.
Hardware and Performance
The iPhone 5c had an A6 chip, the same as the iPhone 5. It came in 16GB and 32GB storage options. The phone had a plastic body, which made it slightly heavier and thicker than its predecessor. Talk time was up to 10 hours on 3G and audio playback lasted up to 40 hours.
The iPhone 5s featured the A7 chip, which was the first 64-bit processor in a smartphone. This improved speed and efficiency. Users could choose from 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB storage options. The device also included a fingerprint sensor, called Touch ID, integrated into the home button. The battery life was similar to the 5c with up to 10 hours of talk time on 3G.
Camera and Multimedia
The iPhone 5c had an 8MP iSight camera. It recorded 1080p HD video and featured a 1.2MP front-facing camera for FaceTime and selfies. There was an LED flash to help in low light.
The iPhone 5s enhanced the camera with a larger aperture of f/2.2, which allowed more light for better photos. It had dual LED flash, which Apple called True Tone flash. This helped balance colors in photos. The 5s also recorded 1080p HD video. It included slow-motion video recording at 120 frames per second.
The iPhone 5s and 5c supported iTunes Radio for streaming music and had multi-touch displays. Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, was available on both models.
