I’ve used iPhones of various sizes throughout the years. My first smartphone was a 3.5-inch iPhone, and I’ve owned every size screen since—the 4-inch iPhone 5s, the 4.7-inch iPhone 6s, the 5.5-inch iPhone 7 Plus, the 5.8-inch iPhone X, the 6.1-inch iPhone 11, and, most recently, the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 small.
So, when the iPhone 13 was out, I automatically got the one that wasn’t on the list: the 6.7-inch iPhone 13 Pro Max. That’s 1.3 inches larger than the iPhone 12 mini I’d been using for the previous 11 months, so it took some getting used to. But, in addition to the size and weight—both of which are important obstacles to overcome—I’ve discovered some interesting distinctions between Apple’s smallest and largest iPhones.
Phones can truly last all day
This may sound apparent, but prior to the iPhone 13 Pro Max, I had never used an iPhone that lasted all day. With the iPhone 12 mini, I kept a charger accessible at all times to guarantee that I didn’t run out of power. That is not at all a worry with the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is a battery beast, easily going through a day of really heavy usage without falling into the red thanks to the larger battery, A15 power handling advances, and adaptive refresh display. I could definitely get through a weekend without charging if I used it sparingly. It’s the single most important reason I’d suggest the Max to anyone looking to buy an iPhone.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max (left) is not only larger than the iPhone 13 and iPhone 12 small, but it also has a substantially longer battery life.
Stainless steel looks nice in renderings but is unworkable in real life.
Because the iPhone 13 Pro has the same design as the iPhone 13, Apple needed to differentiate it in some manner, so it chose stainless steel over aluminum, which looks wonderful in mockups but isn’t all that great in actuality. It’s hefty, it scratches easily, it gathers smudges, and, to be honest, it doesn’t look much better than the iPhone 13’s brilliantly colored metal. I understand why Apple would utilize a different material for its higher-end phones, but I’m hopeful that the titanium rumors for next year’s Pro models are real.
iOS should support bigger displays
The iPhone 13 Pro Max is obviously larger than the iPhone 12 small, but aside from the physical size of the screen, there isn’t much difference between the two phones. The usual Pro-to-non-Pro distinctions apply—better camera, better display, greater battery—but for everyday chores, the Max doesn’t provide much more than the small. The iPhone Max uses the same interface as the iPhone mini, unlike the Apple Watch Series 7, which includes upgraded UI components to take advantage of the bigger screen.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max should take some cues from iPadOS.
That means to say you’re getting the same icon grid, widgets, dock, and App Library. The iPhone 13 Pro Max could easily fit an extra row of icons, but Apple instead has a large swatch of blank space at the bottom go the Home Screen. The same goes for the Dock, which could fit a fifth icon if Apple wanted. So the only things you’re giving up with the mini are larger photos and a couple of extra lines of text. Apple should take a page from the Apple Watch Series 7 here and retool iOS to take advantage of the extra space.
Apple Pencil support is required for the Max
You don’t need me to tell you that the iPhone 13 Pro Max is a massive device. Its display is just approximately an inch smaller than the original iPad mini, with a 6.7-inch screen. A large display is terrific for viewing movies, but it’s also a great productivity tool for tasks like drafting long emails and editing images. However, you must continue to utilize your fingers for everything.
The Apple Pencil would be an excellent iPad Pro partner.
The Apple Pencil is a terrific iPad attachment, and it would be just as useful on the iPhone 13 Max. With a 6.7-inch display, it’s roughly the size of a tiny notepad, and a smaller Apple Pencil would be ideal for swiftly jotting down thoughts and marking up papers. Furthermore, it would distinguish the iPhone 13 Max from the rest of the range and position it as a pro productivity gadget, similar to the iPad Pro or Samsung Galaxy Note.
The tiny iPhone is deserving of a spot in Apple’s range.
According to multiple rumors, the iPhone 13 small will be the last of its kind. Due to poor sales, the smallest iPhone appears to be on the chopping block, as iPhone customers gravitate toward devices with bigger screens. While I enjoy the iPhone Max’s 6.7-inch display, I mourn the iPhone 12 mini’s one-handed use.
If the iPhone small is indeed being phased out with the iPhone 14 series, I hope Apple maintains it in the pipeline for a future iPhone SE. After all, Apple now offers the 12 mini for $599, and it is expected to be reduced to $499 next year, similar to the current iPhone 11. While reports claim that the 2022 iPhone SE will have the same vintage appearance, the following generation is virtually guaranteed to feature a Liquid Retina display, in which case the iPhone small chassis would be an ideal match.
Apple has published the second developer beta of iOS 14 today, including some minor improvements to the system. And now, we’ve discovered a secret function in the Wallet app that allows users to utilize Apple Pay to make purchases with QR Codes.
Apple is working on a new technique for allowing customers to make Apple Pay purchases by scanning a QR Code or standard barcode with the iPhone camera, according to references found in the iOS 14 code.
We were able to gain access to this feature concealed in iOS 14 beta 2, and while it currently does not operate, we can plainly see a picture demonstrating how it will work. Users will aim the iPhone camera at a QR Code or standard barcode to pay bills and other items using an Apple Pay-enabled card.
The inverse would also work, with users bringing the iPhone up to a scanner and scanning a QR Code created by the Wallet app. Because this code was discovered in a public system API, we can also assume that there will be some interaction with third-party programs.
Apple did not address this feature at WWDC 2020, and it is not yet complete, so we do not know when it will be accessible to customers. It’s worth noting that feature was not there in the first iOS 14 developer beta, which was published last month, indicating that Apple is still working on it.
iOS 14 is set to be launched later this year, with a public beta version available this month.
Apple’s catalog of already accessible material on Apple TV+ is expanding, but there’s an even bigger list of projects in the pipeline. Apple is working on a variety of projects, including films, limited series, specials, and multi-season programs.
Some of these projects have been formally announced and recognized by Apple, but many have only been reported by the Hollywood press, which is constantly on the lookout for which actors, directors, and producers are associated with which projects.
This list has been broken into two parts: Coming Soon is a list of shows for which Apple has provided an official release date or window, while Further Out is a collection of other announced and unannounced projects that are still in the works or haven’t even begun.
Updated 11/29/21: Apple has announced a number of holiday specials that will be available in December, including “Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne” and special episodes of “Get Rolling With Otis” and “Stillwater.”
Soon to be released
Apple has formally announced the following episodes, series, and movies, which will normally begin streaming in the next weeks or months.
For Auld Lang Syne, Snoopy Presents
What it’s about: After a disappointing Christmas because her Grandma couldn’t make it, Lucy swears to throw the best New Year’s Eve party ever for the whole Peanuts gang, but Charlie Brown struggles to keep even one of his promises before the clock strikes twelve.
Names to remember: It’s yet another new Peanuts special as part of Apple’s overall agreement.
When it will be available to watch: The special streams on December 10, 2021.
Swan Song
What it is all about: Apple explains it as follows: The film, set in the near future, investigates how far someone will go and how much they would sacrifice to build a better life for the people they care about.
Names to remember: Mahershala Ali, who won Oscars for his roles in Moonlight and Green Book, appears in the picture. Benjamin Cleary wrote and directed the film.
When you can see it: The film will be released in theaters on December 17th.
The Macbeth Tragedy
What it’s about: This is the newest drama from acclaimed filmmaker Joel Coen. But we don’t know if it’s a true recounting of Shakespeare’s tragedy.
Denzel Washington and Francis McDormand star in this film directed by Joel Coen.
When you can see it: The film will be released in cinemas in late 2021, followed by an Apple TV+ release.
Back to the Rock, Fraggle Rock
What it’s all about: Following the success of a few shorts (Fraggle Rock: Rock On! ), Apple has reached an agreement with the Jim Henson Company to develop a comprehensive revival of the famous children’s show.
Important names: The Jim Henson Company is back in charge.
When you are able to watch: On May 27, 2020, the original episodes will be available. The revival, named “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock,” is set to debut on January 21, 2022.
The Afterparty
What it’s about: A murder mystery comedy set during a high school reunion afterparty. Each of the eight episodes will contain a retelling of the same night told from the perspective of a new individual, each with their own distinct visual format and film genre to match the teller’s personality.
The series is developed by Chris Miller and Phil Lord, who previously collaborated on projects such as The LEGO Movie and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
When you can watch: The Afterparty will be available to stream in January.
Killers of the Flower Moon
Based on the book Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI. It relates the narrative of a series of murders committed by rich Osage Native Americans in Oklahoma in the 1920s, following the discovery of oil on their property. According to Deadline, Paramount will release the picture in cinemas, while Apple TV+ will be the exclusive streaming platform.
Names to remember: Martin Scorsese directed the film, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro.
When it will be available to watch: Apple describes this film as “Coming Soon.”
Further Out
These shows, series, and movies may or may not have been formally announced, and no release dates have been set. Some will be available in the next months, while others will be available in more than a year. It’s likely that some of these ideas may never see the light of day.
Magic Johnson documentary series, which has yet to be named
What it’s about: Apple is developing a four-part documentary series about the life of Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a two-time NBA Hall of Famer.
Names to remember: The docuseries is produced by XTR and New Slate Ventures and directed by Rick Famuyiwa, with editor Dirk Westervelt and cinematographer Rachel Morrison.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for this series.
Untitled Film starring Jon Watts, Brad Pitt, and George Clooney
What it’s about: A thriller about two lone wolf fixers (Pitt and Clooney) who are assigned to the same task. According to Deadline, Apple outbid other big studios and distributors for the film rights. The title of the film is yet to be determined.
Names to remember: Jon Watts wrote and directed the film, which starred George Clooney and Brad Pitt.
When you can see it: There is no set release date for this film.
Amber Brown
What it’s about: A series based on Paula Danziger’s best-selling novels. It’s “an uncensored look at a girl discovering her own voice via art and music in the aftermath of her parents’ divorce,” according to Apple.
Names to remember: Bonnie Hunt wrote and directed the film, which stars Carsyn Rose, Sarah Drew, Darin Brooks, and Liliana Inouye.
Amber Brown does not yet have a release date.
Yo Gabba Gabba!
What it is all about: A popular Nickelodeon series with live action, puppets, brief comedy, and music that aired for six seasons. Apple has purchased the full back library as well as the rights to produce future episodes. So far, 20 new episodes are planned as a “reimagining centered on the spirit and soul of what Yo Gabba Gabba! is.”
Names to remember: It is unknown who from the original cast or crew will appear in the new episodes.
When you are able to watch: We don’t yet know when past episodes will be available on Apple TV+ or when new episodes will be released.
Ghosted
What it’s about: According to Deadline, this is a romantic action-adventure picture, however we don’t know much else.
Scarlett Johansson and Chris Evans are in talks to join the cast. Dexter Fletcher directed the film, which was written by Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for Ghosted.
The Changeling
What it’s about: The Changeling, according to Apple, is a story for adults. A horror story, a parable about fatherhood, and a frightening journey through a New York City you never knew existed. It is based on Victor LaValle’s novel of the same name.
The program will feature LaKeith Stanfield and will be written/adapted by Kelly Marcel, who will also act as showrunner.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for The Changeling.
Bad Monkey
What it is all about: “Bad Monkey,” an adaption of Carl Hiaasen’s novel of the same name, depicts the story of Andrew Yancy, a former detective relegated to restaurant inspector in Southern Florida. A severed limb discovered by a tourist out fishing draws Yancy into the realm of greed and corruption that is destroying the land and ecology in both Florida and the Bahamas. Yes, there is a monkey.
Names to remember: Bill Lawrence (Scrubs, Ted Lasso, Cougar Town) wrote and produced the film, which starred Vince Vaughn.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for Bad Monkey.
City on Fire
What it is all about: Samantha Cicciaro is an NYU student who gets shot in Central Park on July 4, 2003. As the investigation progresses, she is found to be a vital link between a series of inexplicable citywide fires, the downtown music scene, and a wealthy uptown real estate family straining under the weight of the numerous secrets they hide.
Names to remember: Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage wrote and executive produced the film.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for this series.
Untitled Negro League Baseball series
It tells the story of renowned pitcher Leroy “Satchel” Paige’s life and career.
Erving “Magic” Johnson, among others, is one of the series’ producers. It’s a collaboration between the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and Major League Baseball.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for this series.
Liaison
What it’s about: A modern-day thriller with action, espionage, and political intrigue about how our past sins may devastate our futures.
The series will be directed by Stephen Hopkins and will feature Vincent Cassel and Eva Green.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for Liaison.
Strange Planet
What it’s about: An animated series based on Nathan Pyle’s webcomic and graphic novels. The cartoon depicts aliens that live lives similar to ours but refer to our daily actions using standard, often scientific-sounding jargon (for example, calling a hug a “limb enclosure”).
Important people: The series is being produced in part by Dan Harmon, well known for his work on Community and Rick and Morty.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for the series.
The Big Door Prize
What it’s about: Based on M. O. Walsh’s best-selling novel. The citizens of the little town of Deerfield discover a mysterious gadget in their local grocery store one day that claims to foretell one’s future potential, and chaos follows.
David West Read, who wrote and executive produced Schitt’s Creek, will pen the adaptation and act as showrunner.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for The Big Door Prize.
Wool
What it is all about: Set in a damaged and polluted future where a community lives underground in a massive silo hundreds of storeys deep. There, men and women live in a culture rife with rules they believe are designed to keep them safe. Hugh Howey’s trilogy of books inspired the film.
Rebecca Ferguson stars in the film, which was written by Graham Yost and directed by Morten Tyldum.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for Wool.
Hello Tomorrow!
What it is all about: “Hello Tomorrow!” is set in a retro-future environment and revolves around a gang of itinerant marketers promoting moon timeshares.
Names to remember: Billy Crudup stars in and executive produces the film. Jonathan Entwistle will be in charge of the direction.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for this series.
Big Man on Campus
What it’s about: A documentary series on basketball superstar Makur Maker and his decision to go at Howard University instead of one of the big-name college basketball schools to promote Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Image from Apple
Names to remember: Seth Gordon directed and produced the film.
When you may watch it: There is no set release date for the series.
Number One on the Call Sheet
What it is: A pair of documentaries that look at the history of black performers and actresses in Hollywood. One focuses on leading men, while the other focuses on leading women.
Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Datari Turner, Dan Cogan, Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Reginald Hudlin, and Bryan Smiley are among the producers.
When you may watch: There is no set release date for these two companion films.
Black & Blues: The Colorful Ballad of Louis Armstrong
What it’s about: A documentary film about the pioneering jazz musician’s life. The film will chronicle the tale of Armstrong’s life entirely via his own words, using a ton of never-before-seen archive material.
Important names: Louis Armstrong is the big name here. The film will be directed by Sacha Jenkins.
When you can watch: This film has no release date yet.
As you can see, Apple TV+ has quite the set of releases coming up and this is just a brief overview of some of the upcoming entertainment.
