The day is finally upon us. You can now pre-order a colorful, plastic iPhone 5C. And within a week, Apple will start shipping both its new lower-cost iPhone and its next-gen flagship, the iPhone 5S. Plan on picking one up? You better make sure you get everything you need to make the most of your shiny new device — provided you don't have it already. IGN has you covered with a comprehensive buyer's guide.
How to Buy an iPhone 5C
The iPhone 5C doesn't just offer an alternative to the standard iPhone line in regards to its five different hues; it's also a more economical option if you're willing to sign a new two-year mobile carrier contract. You have more than a few options when it comes to making your purchase. The online Apple Store is of course accepting pre-orders right now, and your device should arrive around September 20th. For prospective owners in the US, you can select from AT&T, Sprint, or Verizon, and pick a storage option.
The 16GB iPhone 5C will cost you $99, while the 32GB model is priced at $199. Those prices are pretty much the same no matter where you choose to purchase your iPhone 5C on-contract, including directly from carriers like AT&T and retail stores like Best Buy. Walmart, however, is offering $20 off the iPhone 5C on a first-come, first-served basis.
Another option is giving up the subsidized price associated with a new two-year contract and just buying an unlocked iPhone 5C. Granted, the savings aren't so appealing. An unlocked device--which you use through T-Mobile fairly easily--starts at $549 for a 16GB iPhone 5C, and $649 for a 32GB model.
For those that prefer to go the in-store route, you can either order a device online and pick it up at your local Apple store at 8am on launch day, or just wait in line. Store hours for other retailers will vary.
How to Buy an iPhone 5S
Many of the same options are available to those who want Apple's new flagship smartphone, but unlike the iPhone 5C,*Apple isn't offering pre-orders*for the iPhone 5S. Instead, users can place an order from Apple's online store at midnight on September 20th and pick it from their local Apple store in the morning. More patient consumers can wait for an at-home delivery. Then, of course, there's the old-fashioned way: go wait in line. Lines will likely be forming several hours before store open on Friday, especially in more populated areas. Third-party retailers may also be offering similar queuing options.
A 16GB iPhone 5S starts at $199 on-contract. The 32GB and 64GB models are $299 and $399, respectively. Just like the iPhone 5C, the prices are more or less set for the iPhone 5S, regardless of whether you buy from a carrier like Verizon or from Apple directly. But again, Walmart is offering a slight discount; albeit only $10 off on the iPhone 5S. Other retailers may also be shaving off a few extra dollars, so keep an eye out for local promotions.
Alternatively, there's also the unlocked route which doesn't require a two-year contract. The unsubsidized iPhone 5S starts at $649 for 16GB of storage, while a 32GB model costs $749. And if you're really in need of a lot of space, the 64GB iPhone 5C will run you $849. Your best bet for picking up an unlocked device is probably through T-Mobile or directly through Apple.
Protect Your Investment
Image Source: Moshi
OK. So with your shiny new iPhone in hand, you're ready to take on all the features of iOS 7 and the Apple ecosystem. But wait! Now you've dropped that new device while running to catch the morning train. Hey, it happens. Much like its predecessors, the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C are susceptible to scuffed aluminum bodies and — we would imagine — cracked plastic backs, in the case of the iPhone 5C. Picking up a protective case is a smart decision, and the world is thankfully full of options.
First and foremost, Apple has announced its own line of first-party cases for both of its new smartphones. The iPhone 5C case is available in six different colors — Cupertino went color crazy this fall — and features circular cut-outs on the back to show off the bright colors of your new phone. You can order one from the Apple Store for $29. Apple is also offering a simpler case for the iPhone 5S in six neutral tones for $39, and it's made of leather, if that's your thing.
But hey, who says you have to stick with the first-party cases? The internet is filled to the brim with all kinds of protective covers, and it shouldn't take long to find the case to display your personal style. The majority of iPhone 5 cases already on the market should fit the iPhone 5S. All that said, keep in mind you'll want a compatible case for the iPhone 5S with a wide enough cutout near the camera to take advantage of the dual-LED flash, and make sure the case doesn't cover up the fingerprint sensor.
Image Source: Otterbox
OtterBox manufactures rugged cases for the truly butterfingered, and the company's $24 iPhone 5 case*has a cutout to take advantage of the fingerprint sensor in the home button. If you're looking for extended battery life, consider one of Mophie's juice packs for iPhone 5 (), which should work just fine with the new model. Moshi's metallic iPhone 5S cases mimic the colors of the phone--including gold--while offering protection for $40. And if you really want to show off the bright colors of your new iPhone 5C, Spigen has a see-through case for only $11 bucks.
Keep in mind, protection plans can also prove a solid investment. Apple Care offers affordable insurance for when things go wrong, and you can buy it at the same time you pick up your iPhone. Some retailers--like Best Buy--also offer plans that cover accidental damage for those times when an iPhone 5S decides to take a swim in your toilet.
Keep it Charged, Pump up the Jams
Remember when the iPhone 5 launched and everyone freaked out about the Lightning connector? Well, thankfully over a year has passed and there's plenty of options when it comes to charging your iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. Your device will ship with a Lighting-to-USB charger cable, but you might consider picking up a second wall, car, or even dock charging cord. Apple's power adapter--so you can plug into an outlet--will run you $20, but you can find third-party options on Amazon for as low as $2.80.
Belkin sells a quality car charger with a Lightning Connector for $18, so you can keep your device charged on those long road trips. And when you're just sitting at the house or office and want the ease of simply laying your iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C on a dock, the Elago M2 Dock for $25 is compatible with all models of iPhone. But what if you could have a docking station AND a way to play music AND it's solar powered? Enter the*Eton Rukus Speaker System. Yes, it's just a tad bit more expensive at $130, but it has solar power!
Accessories for Any Occasion
Chargers and cases aren't the only thing you'll want to accentuate your new iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. You'll need a decent pair of headphones for taking advantage of the new iTunes Radio or your music streaming app of choice. A new iPhone arrives with a pair of microphone-enabled Ear Pods, but maybe you're looking for something with a little better sound quality. While they're certainly not cheap, the Bose*MIE2i Mobile Headset () offers superior sound quality and is compatible with your new iPhone, so you can take calls. But for less than $50, you could pick up a pair of Jay-a-Jays One+ ear buds*and still take those calls with super nice, tangle-free cables.
When it starts getting cold outside, a pair of NuTouch touch-screen ready winter gloves*will keep the chill off while still allowing you to interact with iOS 7, and all for about $10. Or, just skip the whole concept of touching the screen with your finger altogether with a Bamboo Pen Duo, which expands for better control for around $16.
Like we said, the internet is full of crazy stuff to use with your new iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. Grab your new smartphone and start enjoying iOS 7.
Matt Clark is a freelance writer covering the world of videogames, tech, and popular culture. Follow him on Twitter @ClarkMatt and MyIGN at Matt_Clark.
More...
How to Buy an iPhone 5C
The iPhone 5C doesn't just offer an alternative to the standard iPhone line in regards to its five different hues; it's also a more economical option if you're willing to sign a new two-year mobile carrier contract. You have more than a few options when it comes to making your purchase. The online Apple Store is of course accepting pre-orders right now, and your device should arrive around September 20th. For prospective owners in the US, you can select from AT&T, Sprint, or Verizon, and pick a storage option.
The 16GB iPhone 5C will cost you $99, while the 32GB model is priced at $199. Those prices are pretty much the same no matter where you choose to purchase your iPhone 5C on-contract, including directly from carriers like AT&T and retail stores like Best Buy. Walmart, however, is offering $20 off the iPhone 5C on a first-come, first-served basis.
Another option is giving up the subsidized price associated with a new two-year contract and just buying an unlocked iPhone 5C. Granted, the savings aren't so appealing. An unlocked device--which you use through T-Mobile fairly easily--starts at $549 for a 16GB iPhone 5C, and $649 for a 32GB model.
For those that prefer to go the in-store route, you can either order a device online and pick it up at your local Apple store at 8am on launch day, or just wait in line. Store hours for other retailers will vary.
How to Buy an iPhone 5S
Many of the same options are available to those who want Apple's new flagship smartphone, but unlike the iPhone 5C,*Apple isn't offering pre-orders*for the iPhone 5S. Instead, users can place an order from Apple's online store at midnight on September 20th and pick it from their local Apple store in the morning. More patient consumers can wait for an at-home delivery. Then, of course, there's the old-fashioned way: go wait in line. Lines will likely be forming several hours before store open on Friday, especially in more populated areas. Third-party retailers may also be offering similar queuing options.
A 16GB iPhone 5S starts at $199 on-contract. The 32GB and 64GB models are $299 and $399, respectively. Just like the iPhone 5C, the prices are more or less set for the iPhone 5S, regardless of whether you buy from a carrier like Verizon or from Apple directly. But again, Walmart is offering a slight discount; albeit only $10 off on the iPhone 5S. Other retailers may also be shaving off a few extra dollars, so keep an eye out for local promotions.
Alternatively, there's also the unlocked route which doesn't require a two-year contract. The unsubsidized iPhone 5S starts at $649 for 16GB of storage, while a 32GB model costs $749. And if you're really in need of a lot of space, the 64GB iPhone 5C will run you $849. Your best bet for picking up an unlocked device is probably through T-Mobile or directly through Apple.
Protect Your Investment
Image Source: MoshiOK. So with your shiny new iPhone in hand, you're ready to take on all the features of iOS 7 and the Apple ecosystem. But wait! Now you've dropped that new device while running to catch the morning train. Hey, it happens. Much like its predecessors, the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C are susceptible to scuffed aluminum bodies and — we would imagine — cracked plastic backs, in the case of the iPhone 5C. Picking up a protective case is a smart decision, and the world is thankfully full of options.
First and foremost, Apple has announced its own line of first-party cases for both of its new smartphones. The iPhone 5C case is available in six different colors — Cupertino went color crazy this fall — and features circular cut-outs on the back to show off the bright colors of your new phone. You can order one from the Apple Store for $29. Apple is also offering a simpler case for the iPhone 5S in six neutral tones for $39, and it's made of leather, if that's your thing.
But hey, who says you have to stick with the first-party cases? The internet is filled to the brim with all kinds of protective covers, and it shouldn't take long to find the case to display your personal style. The majority of iPhone 5 cases already on the market should fit the iPhone 5S. All that said, keep in mind you'll want a compatible case for the iPhone 5S with a wide enough cutout near the camera to take advantage of the dual-LED flash, and make sure the case doesn't cover up the fingerprint sensor.
Image Source: OtterboxOtterBox manufactures rugged cases for the truly butterfingered, and the company's $24 iPhone 5 case*has a cutout to take advantage of the fingerprint sensor in the home button. If you're looking for extended battery life, consider one of Mophie's juice packs for iPhone 5 (), which should work just fine with the new model. Moshi's metallic iPhone 5S cases mimic the colors of the phone--including gold--while offering protection for $40. And if you really want to show off the bright colors of your new iPhone 5C, Spigen has a see-through case for only $11 bucks.
Keep in mind, protection plans can also prove a solid investment. Apple Care offers affordable insurance for when things go wrong, and you can buy it at the same time you pick up your iPhone. Some retailers--like Best Buy--also offer plans that cover accidental damage for those times when an iPhone 5S decides to take a swim in your toilet.
Keep it Charged, Pump up the Jams
Remember when the iPhone 5 launched and everyone freaked out about the Lightning connector? Well, thankfully over a year has passed and there's plenty of options when it comes to charging your iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. Your device will ship with a Lighting-to-USB charger cable, but you might consider picking up a second wall, car, or even dock charging cord. Apple's power adapter--so you can plug into an outlet--will run you $20, but you can find third-party options on Amazon for as low as $2.80.
Belkin sells a quality car charger with a Lightning Connector for $18, so you can keep your device charged on those long road trips. And when you're just sitting at the house or office and want the ease of simply laying your iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C on a dock, the Elago M2 Dock for $25 is compatible with all models of iPhone. But what if you could have a docking station AND a way to play music AND it's solar powered? Enter the*Eton Rukus Speaker System. Yes, it's just a tad bit more expensive at $130, but it has solar power!
Accessories for Any Occasion
Chargers and cases aren't the only thing you'll want to accentuate your new iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. You'll need a decent pair of headphones for taking advantage of the new iTunes Radio or your music streaming app of choice. A new iPhone arrives with a pair of microphone-enabled Ear Pods, but maybe you're looking for something with a little better sound quality. While they're certainly not cheap, the Bose*MIE2i Mobile Headset () offers superior sound quality and is compatible with your new iPhone, so you can take calls. But for less than $50, you could pick up a pair of Jay-a-Jays One+ ear buds*and still take those calls with super nice, tangle-free cables.
When it starts getting cold outside, a pair of NuTouch touch-screen ready winter gloves*will keep the chill off while still allowing you to interact with iOS 7, and all for about $10. Or, just skip the whole concept of touching the screen with your finger altogether with a Bamboo Pen Duo, which expands for better control for around $16.
Like we said, the internet is full of crazy stuff to use with your new iPhone 5S or iPhone 5C. Grab your new smartphone and start enjoying iOS 7.
Matt Clark is a freelance writer covering the world of videogames, tech, and popular culture. Follow him on Twitter @ClarkMatt and MyIGN at Matt_Clark.
More...
