It's always fun to watch an Apple event. We learn a lot, and Apple puts on a great show. But, inevitably, there are many little things to learn about after the show is over. Here are some of those tidbits of knowledge I've picked up.
1. Other than the display size, there are interesting differences between the 9.7-inch iPad Pro and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Here's the comparison chart. For example, while both have the A9X SoC, the smaller iPad Pro isn't as fast. Also, according to the same Cult of Mac article just linked:
The A9X processor isn’t the only trade-off buyers have to consider between the two models. Apple included USB-3 support on the 12.9-inch model’s Lightning port, but the 9.7-inch iPad Pro only supports USB 2.0 speeds.
2. If you thought the upgrade to El Capitan from 10.11.3 to 10.11.4 had a modest list of features, recall that there are always a boatload of important security patches. This list of security enhancements in 10.11.4 will make you want to upgrade right away . Some are geeky, but some can and should prompt you into action.
3. You may not be particularly excited about Apple's new iPhone SE with a 4-inch display, but plenty of other people are, and most of them are probably not in the U.S. This article at CNET explains in some detail: "Apple turns to smaller iPhone to win over China, India." Namely:
The company is hoping the combination of higher-end specs and lower-end price on its new 4-inch iPhone SE will help Apple find new buyers in the world's largest smartphone markets.
This is essential if Apple is to ignite new iPhone growth and stymie its competitors. Now you know.
By the way, here's Apple's current iPhone comparison chart.
4. The 9.7-inch iPad Pro is very similar to the iPad Air 2. In fact, they have the same external dimensions. But because of the addition of Apple's Smart Connector and the new speaker configuration, Mac Rumors points out that "iPad Air 2 Smart Covers Not Recommended for 9.7-inch iPad Pro."
5. One of the things that probably caused the FBI to cancel its court hearing with Apple on March 22nd was technical knowledge. Apple likely could have shown, to the courts satisfaction, that the FBI didn't need Apple's help to break into the San Bernardino shooter's iPhone. The information has been available since March 7th, and the FBI's case probably would have been vacated in light of this technical knowledge. See: "One of the FBI’s Major Claims in the iPhone Case Is Fraudulent." But the ultimate clash has merely been postponed, not resolved.
It's nice to know the little things.
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Teaser image via Shutterstock.
