Apple today announced the new iPhone 7 special edition models. Finished in a vibrant red aluminum finish. The special edition iPhone will mark the recognition of more than ten years of partnership between Apple and (RED).
This iPhone purchase gives customers an unprecedented way to contribute to the Global Fund and bring the world a step closer to an AIDS-free generation.
The special edition (PRODUCT)RED iPhone will be available to order online worldwide and in stores beginning Friday, March 24.
The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus (PRODUCT)RED Special Edition
These iPhones are available in 128GB and 256GB models starting at $749 (US) from apple.com, Apple Stores, and from Apple Authorized Resellers and select carriers (prices may vary). The special edition (PRODUCT)RED iPhone joins iPhone 7 finishes in jet black, black, silver, gold and rose gold.
“Since we began working with (RED) 10 years ago, our customers have made a significant impact in fighting the spread of AIDS through the purchase of our products, from the original iPod nano (PRODUCT)RED Special Edition all the way to today’s lineup of Beats products and accessories for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “The introduction of this special edition iPhone in a gorgeous red finish is our biggest (PRODUCT)RED offering to date in celebration of our partnership with (RED), and we can’t wait to get it into customers’ hands.”
And New App Called Clips!
Apple also announced the release of a new App called “Clips”. This is a new iOS app for making and sharing fun videos embedded with text, effects, graphics and more.
Somewhat along the lines of SNAP, this new App will be able to recognize who is in your videos and provide suggestions for sharing. Details of when this will be released on the App Store is not clear at this moment.
A Cheaper iPad is Here
A new iPad model was also announced today. The 9.7 inch iPad Model will start at $329. It has the A9 chip and supports Retina Display.
With a 10-hour battery life, this new iPad model is expected to re-energize the slowing tablet market.
This is not a Pro model. The iPad Flat Out Fun design or just call it an iPad is perhaps intended at cost-sensitive customers who want to try out the Apple ecosystem.
$329 makes it more appealing for customers who already have a cheaper tablet but were thinking of an upgrade for some time. This will serve as a good value proposition for android users to switch over to the iOS side of things. The pricing also makes it an attractive and viable choice for new markets such as India or China.
New Apple Watch bands were also announced and are available soon.
The new products are probably not going to excite the vast majority base of existing Apple customers and fans. There is no superior feature or innovative technology that was announced with the lineups today. It remains to be seen if the new iPad is able to steal tablet customers away from Android platforms.