On September 14, the yearly Apple Event announced several new versions of Apple’s flagship products, including new iPhones and iPads. The new iPhone 13 has four different models available. The most expensive option is the maxed-out iPhone 13 Pro Max which has a new 120hz refresh rate screen, expanded battery life, extra-large storage, and new camera design, which costs north of $1100. The “regular” iPhone 13 Pro keeps most of those improvements, except for a larger screen (the Max is 6.7 inches compared to 6.1) and battery life (Max has increased 3 hours compared to the last generation, while regular has half that), in return for a lower price of $1000. The more affordable, non “Pro” line of iPhone 13’s drops the new 120hz refresh rate and has a reduced battery life, storage, processor, and camera, but costs only $699 for the smaller “Mini” version and $799 for the regular-sized version. 

Apple also unveiled a new Apple watch that increased charging speed by 33%, reduced display borders by 40%, and added an always-on display so users can view the time without tapping the watch. 

As for the two new iPads, there is a low-cost, entry-level model and a new iPad mini. The low-end model has a new 12-megapixel front-facing camera, a faster A13 processor, and higher storage capacity at 64 gigabytes, and starts at $329. The iPad mini, which features a smaller 8.3-inch screen, now has smaller bezels, Touch ID, and 5G connectivity. It starts at $499. 

During the pandemic, the technology industry has struggled as labor shortages and lockdowns disrupted supply chains, and industrial capacity has been sold out. Computer chip manufacturers have sold out years of production, and new factories are still years behind in development. Lack of chips has caused industries from cars to graphics cards to be forced to halt production, and those that have struggled through the deadlock have seen demand far outstrip supply. Luckily, Apple has purchased years of factory assignments from chip manufacturers in advance, but the industry remains in danger and jeopardy.