The iPhone event has come and gone now, and we have a much better idea of what the latest handsets from Apple are going to look like. The most exciting iPhones are the Pro and the Pro Max — two extremely powerful phones packed with features and new finishes that look to draw you away from the iPhone that’s already in your pocket.

Will they succeed? Most likely; When you compare the older iPhone with the brand-new models, it’s almost ridiculous how improved the iPhone 15 Pro is. With the Dynamic Island, 48MP camera, and the USB-C port on the bottom, the iPhone 15 Pro is really a no-brainer when it comes to an upgrade — especially when you consider that if your phone is in good shape, then you can trade it in and end up paying little to nothing for the new iPhone.

Of course, you’ll want to know about all the bits inside before you make any kind of decision as to whether it’s an iPhone that you want to grab for yourself. This is the iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro — and whether you should upgrade to the latest iPhone.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Specs

One of the best ways to stack the iPhone 15 Pro against the iPhone 13 Pro is to compare their specs. This year has brought some big boosts to the iPhone line, mostly in terms of the 3nm produced A17 Pro chip that now powers everything in the background. The new 3nm process means that Apple has been able to make a more powerful chip in the same space as an old one, with massive shrunk-down components and structures.

You don’t need to look closely at the spec sheet to see that the iPhone 13 Pro is completely outclassed by the iPhone 15 Pro. There’s way more power on tap than you’d find on the iPhone 13 Pro, the camera is far superior, and the USB-C port on the bottom really brings the phone up to modern speed.

You might expect that you have to pay a great deal more for all these spec bumps and extra power — but you don’t. The iPhone 15 Pro launches at $999, the same price as last year's iPhone 14 Pro. Also, given that Apple has plastered the deal all over the iPhone product page, it looks like there’s a chance that you’ll be able to potentially grab an iPhone for free, with up to $1000 off when you trade in an old device at a bunch of different carriers. That will depend on the cosmetic quality and whether it works or not, but you could stand to save lots of money.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: What’s new

There's some wicked new features on the iPhone 15 Pro over the iPhone 13 Pro — some of which you may have missed by skipping the iPhone 14 Pro last year. From Dynamic Island to the USB-C port on the bottom, there's loads to make the iPhone 15 Pro feel super fresh.

Dynamic Island

While this isn’t a new feature to this year's Pro model iPhones, it’s one that will be new to you coming from an iPhone 13. It replaces the unsightly notch that you will no doubt have become used to with a kind of digital pill that changes shape and size depending on what notification it’s tracking — It’s great for showing things like takeaway orders while doing something else, such asplaying a game or browsing social media. It’s far less intrusive than the notch and brings back a little more useable display real estate at the top of the iPhone — which can only ever be a good thing.

The screen otherwise remains about as fancy as is humanly possible for the top-shelf iPhone. 120Hz refresh rate with ProMotion, and 6.1 inches of OLED goodness. This year you’ll also get a couple extra screen features too, with an improved 2000 nits peak brightness, and the Always-On display feature from last year's iPhone 14 Pro. 

Titanium finishes

There’s a new material around the sides of the iPhone 15 Pro, and it’s designed to make the iPhone 15 Pro feel lighter than the Stainless Steel iPhones that we’ve had before. It’s a more premium-looking option as well, with a brushed finish and some more refined color options. More refined and polished than the previous finishes, it will also make the latest iPhones a few grams lighter than the last models — great if you’ve got smaller hands.

Camera

The biggest updates this year to the Pro line are reserved for the Pro Max, which is receiving the new zoom that offers 5x zoom. That will, unfortunately not make it to the standard iPhone 15 Pro, but you’ll still get some camera improvements with the latest iPhone. There’s a big bump over the iPhone 13 Pro in the form of a 48MP sensor, that will make your photos really pop, with buckets of detail. Portrait mode will be the first big camera software update, with some cool extras that you might not expect. You can now choose subjects while taking a portrait mode picture, and even go in and make a non-portrait mode picture a portrait mode picture after it’s already been taken.

USB-C

The most talked about new feature of them all; the USB-C port that’s now made it’s way to the bottom edge of the device. Spelling the end of proprietary Apple connections, this new port will bring (to the Pro models, at least) quicker charging and faster data transfer — including allowing you to take video directly to external storage. You can hook it up to a photography rig as well so that you can really dial in all the settings and formats you need when taking professional photos with your iPhone.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Processor

The iPhone 15 Pro has a massive update over the iPhone 13 Pro in the shape of its new processor. The A17 Pro is the first Apple chip that uses the 3nm process, a manufacturing method that can pack more processing bits (transistors) into the same die (chip) size as before. That makes not only for a more powerful chip, one with an extra GPU core but also a more efficient one, likely allowing for more battery life.

It also means that the iPhone 15 Pro is pegged to run some very demanding games, such as Resident Evil 4 Remake, Resident Evil Village, and even the latest Assassin’s Creed, Mirage. This won’t just make it a monster of a smartphone, but a very impressive gaming machine as well. You’d hope that a brand-new device would be more powerful than one from two years ago — but it looks like it’s going to be even more impressive than that. If you want power, then the iPhone 15 Pro is going to be a big upgrade from the 13 Pro.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Colors

So alongside the new Titanium material, the color lineup of the Pro model iPhones is also receiving a refresh. This time around, there’s going to be a Natural Titanium, Black Titanium, White Titanium, and Blue Titanium. In the grand scheme of things, these colors aren’t all that different from the colors that the iPhone 13 Pro was available in; Blue, Gold, Silver, and Black. The difference this year is the lack of Gold, replaced by the natural Titanium finish.

The colors are also more muted than prior models, although the matte Blue of the 15 Pro is very fetching indeed. The color finish is different as well. Rather than the shiny Stainless Steel luster of iPhones we’ve seen before, the 15 Pro has a much fancier and less flashy brushed finish.

If you want something more colorful, then you might miss the iPhone 13 Pro's more ‘out there’ color selection — but the new colors for the 15 Pro bring their own brand of class, elegance, and sophistication. As always, worth getting a good look in person before you make a final decision, if color is something that matters to you.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Battery life

It’s worth noting here that if you’ve got a two-year-old iPhone 13 Pro, then it’s likely that the battery is starting to go off now after goodness only knows how many charging cycles, so any new phone is going to have better staying power than the one that's currently in your pocket.

Having said that, the iPhone 15 Pro should bring some improvements to battery life, thanks to its new, more efficient processor. Apple, however, remains tight-lipped to actual battery life, only saying so much as ‘all-day battery life’ — whatever that means. Expect it to last you a full working day, in essence, with regular, nightly charging. 

This is much the same as the iPhone 13 Pro on release; Apple didn’t give houred estimates around the battery life, instead sticking with that ‘all-day battery life’ line. Reviewers and testers put the battery life at around 20 hours — a number we think will likely be similar to the latest iPhone models.

iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Should you upgrade?

Is your contract up? If yes, then you should absolutely upgrade, and for more reasons than those above — Upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro might actually save you some money. Over the course of the Apple event, the firm commented on a trade-in deal around some of the most popular carriers in and around the US, like AT&T and Verizon.

Take your iPhone 13 Pro to trade in, and if it’s in good condition, you could get up to $1000 off the new device. That means that you could get the $999 completely paid for by your old device, leaving you with no monthly device cost — only your data plan.

Even then, you’d expect the new, improved device to cost loads more than the old one did on release: But it doesn’t. Despite being a great upgrade to the Pro line, it’s still going to cost a nice, round $999, just like the Pro models have cost now for some time.

Overall, the iPhone 15 Pro is a massive upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro, and given the above trade-in deal, you should absolutely be considering upgrading as your contract comes to it’s end. If nothing else, it is always a good idea to make sure that your phone is future-proofed — after all, a new iPhone 15 Pro is going to receive more software updates down the line, and feel faster for longer with that fancy new processor.

The iPhone 15 Pro is available to preorder now, and it will be shipped out on September 22.

The iPhone 13 has been out for over a year now and we're seeing fantastic deals across the iPhone 13 lineup regularly. As part of Amazon's UK Spring Sale, there are huge savings to be found on some of the best iPhones on the market.

If you're looking for a new smartphone and want to save some cash then the iPhone 13 is a great option that gives you one of the newest iPhones without breaking the bank.

The iPhone 13 is still one of the most powerful smartphones on the market to this day. However, if you're looking for the latest and greatest then the iPhone 14 Pro or waiting for a potential iPhone 15 later this year could be the way to go. 

Huge savings on iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max

Save big on the iPhone 13

iPhone 13 mini for less

If you're looking for a new iPhone, saving almost 25% on an older model could be the best value for money you'll find without waiting until the iPhone 15 comes out later this year. 

The iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, and 13 mini are some of the best iPhones that Apple has ever released and are sure to stay fast and updated for years to come. Grab yourself a deal now!

Apple's iPhone 15 Pro might be the best iPhone in 2023, but for many, upgrading to Apple's latest and greatest each year simply isn't an option. If that's the case, Apple's iPhone 14 Pro and even its iPhone 13 Pro are still valiant offerings in terms of robust, premium iPhones that excel at photography and gaming, all while offering the premium finish and feel we've come to expect from Apple's Pro line. 

If you're not on the hunt for an iPhone 15 in 2023, but you're considering one of Apple's older Pro models, then sizing up the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 Pro is the place to start. 

There are some definite tradeoffs in terms of color, capability, and safety features, but the biggest draw to the iPhone 13 Pro will be its price, which continues to fall each time a new model comes joins the fray. Here's everything you need to know about the iPhone 14 Pro versus the iPhone 13 Pro. 

iPhone 14 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Breaking things down

These two iPhones may not look like two entirely different models when you see them side-by-side, but the proof is in the specs. The chart below breaks down the lineup of technical details for both the iPhone 14 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro.

As you can see, the size, storage, and battery life of these two models are roughly the same, but most other specs have changed. The iPhone 14 colors are somewhat different from the options for the iPhone 13, of course, but the camera seems like the biggest difference at first but added features and the lack of the SIM card tray on the 14 Pro could make a big difference for certain users.

iPhone 14 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Goodbye notch, hello Dynamic Island

The biggest iPhone 14 Pro design change that jumps out at you right away is the Dynamic Island. That's the pill-shaped cutout is called that replaced the notorious black notch, present since the iPhone X back in 2017.

Apple has taken a static, unsightly cutout and transformed it into a useful interactive feature. The black space will move and animate to provide important updates, notifications, and alerts without interrupting the user's current activities. If you're tired of that old boring notch, then the iPhone 14 Pro is definitely an improvement over what came before.

Besides the Dynamic Island, the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro are almost identical in design and display. The colors are the same except for the exclusive Deep Purple offering in the iPhone 14 Pro lineup. The ProMotion display is also the same, although the iPhone 14 Pro does has an adaptive refresh rate that can decrease all the way down to 1Hz. This makes it possible to support an always-on display without draining the battery.

The 14 Pro also offers double the brightness in sunny or high-light situations to improve visibility. So if you really love that always-on display and extra brightness, the iPhone 14 Pro may be the way to go. When it comes to visual design, size, and graphics, the rest will be about the same as the iPhone 13 Pro.

iPhone 14 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Quadruple the pixels

There's no denying that the camera on the iPhone 14 Pro is a giant leap forward. The 48-megapixel lens allows you to shoot photos with no compromise on quality. Add to that the improved dual-lens TrueDepth camera in the front and 4K video recording at 24 frames-per-second, and the 14 Pro has got the 13 Pro beat when it comes to photography and videography. It even has an Action mode for stabilizing rough video shots.

Now, that's not to say that the iPhone 13 Pro doesn't offer excellent photo quality with its triple-lens 12-megapixel camera that shoots beautifully in wide, ultra-wide, and macro modes. If you just use your camera to shoot pretty photos of everyday memories, this will be more than enough. For creators, photographers, and videographers, however, the iPhone 14 Pro has a lot more to offer. 

iPhone 14 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Safety versus SIM

We've talked about Dynamic Island and 48-MP cameras, but SOS Satellite emergency calling integrated into the iPhone 14 lineup may have the biggest implications for the future of smartphones as a whole.

For the first time, a cell phone can send out an SOS signal for emergency assistance without data or cellular coverage. So if you get lost in the middle of the Sahara Desert for example, the iPhone 14 Pro can use satellite communication technology to call for help. It also has crash detection sensors that will automatically detect an automobile accident and send out a message to your emergency contact. 

If you're an adventurer, extreme sports enthusiast, or risk-taker, the exclusive emergency features in iPhone 14 could literally save your life. 

With that being said, the eSIM system may or may not be a dealbreaker for you. Most, if not all, cellular providers in the United States will support eSIM cards eventually, so people who have upgraded to the 14 Pro will likely welcome this technological advancement. There are some small local carriers that do not yet support eSIM cards, however, alongside a lot of foreign carriers.

If you spend a lot of time in South America for example, the local cellular providers south of the border may not yet support eSIM systems. Without a SIM card tray to use in these situations, the iPhone 14 Pro could become the source of a lot of frustration and headaches.

Granted, eSIMs are the way of the future, but it may take several years for smaller carriers and developing countries to catch up. In the meantime, the iPhone 14 Pro may not be a viable option for those that still need a SIM card tray. 

iPhone 14 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Which should you buy?

In my opinion, the choice is pretty clear which is the best iPhone. The small increase in price you will pay for the iPhone 14 Pro will be more than worth the new advancements and added benefits. The iPhone 14 Pro offers a convenient always-on interface, alongside the Dynamic Island to keep your experience interactive and streamlined. This newer model also has a better camera and a faster, more powerful chipset. And perhaps the most impressive advancement is the development of emergency SOS services through satellite communication and crash detection.

However, the only to choose the iPhone 13 Pro over the 14 Pro is the lack of the SIM card tray, as this would only apply to unusual cases. For those that live in the United States and use a small local carrier, or spend a lot of time in developing countries, you might not find ready support for eSIM technology. If that's the case (and I doubt this is the case for most), then the iPhone 13 Pro may be the better choice for you. Otherwise, go for the upgrade!

When Apple announced that the iPhone 14 would use the same chip as the iPhone 13 series there were some concerns, especially when the iPhone 14 Pro was confirmed to be getting a new one. But iPhone 14 buyers needn't have worried.

While tests have since shown that the A16 Bionic of the iPhone 14 Pro isn't a huge improvement over the A15 Bionic of the iPhone 13 series, there might actually be more to it than that. A new report highlights that the iPhone 14 is actually faster in some instances than the older iPhone 13 Pro, despite having the same chip inside.

The reason? It's all about cooling.

That's so cool

A new report by the Sidney Morning Herald points out that "the standard 14 models have better sustained performance than last year’s Pros, despite sharing the same chip, thanks to some internal shuffling."

That reshuffling appears to be all about making the iPhone 14 cooler than the iPhone 13 Pro thanks to changes to the way heat dissipates rather than builds up inside the handset.

“This central structural plane [inside iPhone 14] helps to dissipate more heat across the entire surface more consistently,” Richard Dinh, Apple’s senior director of iPhone design, told the newspaper. “This design also introduces our first four-sided stacked main logic board [which] really condenses all the iPhone 14 components in a smaller space and allows us to access the board from either side, for improved repairability.”

Ultimately nobody would have accused the iPhone 13 series of devices of being slow anyway, so the idea of reusing its chip in the iPhone 14 shouldn't have been a hard one for potential buyers to take. But this news certainly sweetens the deal.

The concept of using older chips looks set to continue with the iPhone 15, too. Rumors already suggest that only Apple's best iPhones will get an upgraded chip, likely to be called the A17 Bionic.

Breaking an iPhone is never fun. There’s that moment when your stomach plummets, and you feel like the world has just briefly ended. What are you going to do? Where’s the spare phone? How are you going to tell everyone to only contact you on Facebook because you can’t access WhatsApp on your laptop?

More importantly, how are you going to repair it?

Hopefully, you took out an AppleCare+ policy when you bought it. Otherwise, you’ll be in the same situation as me.

What is AppleCare+?

AppleCare+ is the insurance scheme that Apple offers for all of its products. You can take out a policy when you buy a device, or you can add it a little later on in the product's life. It works alongside the warranty and extends the life of the product beyond the warranty protection. It’s not cheap — it is Apple, after all. It is, however, often a lot cheaper than it is to repair your item should something happen.

Now, I always thought of AppleCare+ as something more like peace of mind. A pricey extra that makes you feel better about taking your devices out and about. I also thought I didn’t need it. I take care of my devices. I buy them cases, cradle them, and baby them throughout the time I use them. I don’t need AppleCare+, I thought because I’m not one of those hamfisted oafs that walks around with a shattered iPhone, bits of glass tumbling from the handset as I pull it from my pocket. I am careful, so I can save £250.

That was until the fateful moment that changed everything.

The moment everything changed

I had to redo my office space a couple of weeks ago. I was moving all my gear into a different room, and building new furniture to fit in place. That meant hefting an entire surround sound system, a new desk, a new sofa, a TV bench, and two large bookshelves replete with DVDs and action figures to fill them. Something was bound to go wrong - I just wasn’t expecting that which did go wrong to go wrong.

While jumping down from a stepladder after hanging some shelving up, I stepped on a cable. A cable to a speaker that went flying as soon as the cable lost its slack. It plummeted from the TV bench on which it was sat, ultimately burying itself into the screen of my iPhone 13 Pro below. To say there is a hole in the screen would be an understatement. There's a massive gaping void in it, thin cracks spidering across the display. I’m pretty sure, in fact, that if you were to take out some of the shards of glass that are still somehow stuck in place you’d be able to see the back of the motherboard. This is, obviously, not great.

How much could AppleCare save me?

See, anyone who has ever smashed an iPhone screen knows how ungodly expensive it is to repair one. For my iPhone 13 Pro, here in the UK, it would cost a grand total of £289. That is, with a little math, around 25% of the total price of the device. Device insurance will cover some of the repair cost, but because it's accidental damage I’ll still have to pay for the excess. In most cases, this is around £250, so I’m not saving really any money at all by claiming on my insurance. For a device I use so much, these prices simply don’t add up — especially when I then go to look at AppleCare+.

See, for my iPhone 13 Pro, an AppleCare+ policy attached to the device would cost me around £240 for two years of coverage. Monthly, it doesn’t work all that much more expensive at £12 per month. Either way, for the price of less than one screen replacement, I can cover my phone for unlimited claims, with much smaller excesses to pay.

With AppleCare+, replacing the now crumbling screen would only cost £25. A tenth of the cost of the full-screen replacement. After that, if it happens again, it’s only another £25. Or say I smash the back of the device - another £25. Camera breaks? That’s free, baby.

The same is true for a device like a MacBook Pro. Toward the end of its life, the machine needed a new battery. Without AppleCare+, the replacement would be £200. With AppleCare+, it would've been free. That would have extended the life of the device, too, meaning I wouldn't have a now useless laptop sat in my drawer ready for the big tech hole in the sky.

In my eyes, it’s really a no-brainer. If only I’d thought about it when I bought the bloody thing. I certainly will now.

The argument for AppleCare+

iPhones are notoriously hard to repair. Where you can take a broken Samsung Galaxy S20 to a small repair shop at the local shopping mall, that same small shop will turn you away if you arrive with an iPhone with a shattered screen. Parts are software locked to the device, with screens, motherboards, and cameras only working with Apple’s blessing. While some repair shops are Apple certified, most of the time you’ll have to go to an Apple Store with Genius bar to get your phone repaired. You can’t even really do it yourself. In the case of the iPhone 14 Pro Max, iFixit stated that it’s "better than last year's" but parts still "require permission from the mothership for the most basic of repairs".

Whatever happens to your iPhone, you’re going to have to take it to an Apple store to get it repaired, the same with damaged MacBooks, iPads, and even Apple Watches. In fact, it’s even more the case with Apple Watches. Those tiny screens and parts are only touchable with Apple equipment, and good luck trying to do it with anything else.

Home insurance companies do offer contents cover, but most excesses on repairing your electronic devices are expensive, especially if it's an accidental breakage. According to Money Supermarket, the average compulsory excess is around £100 in the UK. On top of that, you might have gone for an extra voluntary excess in order to save money on your home insurance. That, according to Money SuperMarket again, is on average £250. That leaves you with £350 with most repairs — an amount, you’ll notice that is more than it would be for even one screen repair.

Things are similar, if not worse, in the US. You’ll pay $279 for a screen repair on an iPhone 13 Pro like mine, or $29 with AppleCare+. Repairing it yourself is nearly impossible unless you have access to equipment that can mark the screen as an official replacement and software bond it to the phone. Insurance is complicated, with paper trails and expensive fees involved to get your phone repaired. Deductibles can run much higher than in the UK with home insurance, making repairing through that route ridiculous. AppleCare+ isn't just a no-brainer, it's a must.

So without AppleCare+, you’ll find yourself locked between a rock and a hard place. Do you pay the whole £250 for a screen repair, or do you go the insurance route and potentially add more to your premium, or pay pretty much the same? If you’re like me, it will make you think long and hard about whether you get AppleCare+ the next time you get a new device, especially if you've tried to save money on your insurance.

AppleCare+ and the wider repair landscape

It will likely lead you to think more about the repairability of your iPhone too. While the newer iPhones are more repairable than ever, with the iPhone 14, in particular, receiving a 7/10 repairability score from iFixit, they are still terrifying devices to take apart and repair. That, and those aforementioned software-locked screens and camera modules mean that buying parts is still very expensive.

I do consider myself fairly handy with a screwdriver, however — I have taken apart iPods, Nintendo Switches, and other gadgets to repair them. Why can’t the same be said for my iPhone? Why should I have to pay monthly for the privilege of Apple repairing my phone, when I can feasibly do it myself? It is, after all, my device. I should be able to buy a secondhand iPhone off eBay and cannibalize its screen to repair my own, and devices should be easier to teardown so that I can pop new components in. Alas, this is still not the case.

Until the day that Apple devices become more repairable, with batteries that aren’t glued into my MacBook Pro or screens that aren’t software locked, I must lump it with AppleCare+. And seriously, so should you. After all, given the incredible savings that are available when you pay just a little bit every month, it's as I said up top — a no-brainer. You never know, it might become more than just peace of mind, like it should’ve done with me and my holey iPhone 13 Pro.

Let’s put it this way. I recently bought a MacBook Pro 14-inch. The first thing I did? I took out an AppleCare+ policy. And you should too.

While the iPhone 13 might not be the best iPhone on the market anymore, it's still a capable handset and one set to enjoy iOS updates, including iOS 18, for years to come. To that end, if you have one, you definitely want one of the best MagSafe cases for iPhone 13 to keep it safe. A good case will protect your iPhone from bumps and scrapes, all while retaining that important MagSafe functionality for charging and more. 

Luckily, there's a case on the market for basically every taste and style, but narrowing it down can be quite a daunting task. To that end, we've pulled together some of our top picks from trusted brands we've worked with for years, here's our very best iPhone 13 MagSafe cases in 2024. 

The best MagSafe cases for iPhone 13

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Q&A

The iPhone 13 lineup includes some of our favorite devices, particularly the iPhone 13 Pro. As noted in our review, we love the bright OLED screen with ProMotion and the upgraded cameras. As always, you'll want to safeguard your precious phone with a case. If you are interested in taking advantage of Apple's MagSafe charging and other accessories, you'll need to use a MagSafe-compatible case. Here are some of our top picks.

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Q & A

No, the iPhone 14 Pro won't fit into an iPhone 13 Pro case. The dimensions are slightly different, plus the camera module is substantially larger. You'll want to pick up one of the best iPhone 14 Pro cases instead.

The iPhone 13 Pro has solid battery life, but it's never going to hurt to have too much power throughout the day. You needn't even buy a separate battery bank that would take up more space in your daily carry. All you need is a special battery case, which will protect your phone while providing you with loads of extra battery power. When you're out and about and you spot your battery getting low, you'll be very thankful for one of the best battery cases for iPhone 13 Pro.

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These portable packs are full of battery power, and they don't force you to have a super bulky case on your iPhone at all times. It's really the best of both worlds. You have access to extra power when you need it but don't have the inconvenience of a large case on your iPhone.

We mentioned Apple's own MagSafe Battery Pack in our list, but there are so many other options out there as well. We reviewed the Mophie Snap Plus Juice Pack Mini, which impressed us with its slim size and USB-C output. We even took a look at the Anker MagGo 622 Magnetic Battery which, on top of having a 5,000mAh battery, also has a built-in stand so you can prop up your iPhone anywhere you go.

The point is, if a battery case doesn't fit your fancy, one of the best MagSafe portable batteries may be the alternate solution you've been searching for.

Of course, if you want an all-in-one solution, a battery case is the best way to go.

Our top pick is the Casely Power 2.0. Not only will it juice up your phone, but it has a nifty lip around the front of the iPhone and around the camera bump at the back, which means you can set down your iPhone on a table, bedstand, or any flat surface and know that your screen won't be scratched up.

For budget-conscious folk, the MAXBEAR Battery Case offers a lot of extra juice with its 7,000mAh battery and some style with its two-tone colorways that really make the case pop.

If you don't care about the extra bulk, the ZEROLEMON Battery Case has an 8,000mAH battery, which is massive and will provide a ton of power when you're away from an outlet.

The iPhone 13 Pro Max has been around for a long time now, with the iPhone 16 gearing up for launch in the coming weeks. But Apple's shiny big boy remains a great phone, and is you own this former flagship you're probably going to want a great case to protect your investment. 

That's where we come in. We test a lot of cases and know what to look for when outfitting your iPhone with one. The 13 Pro Max is harder to purchase accessories for than in its heyday, but you can still find plenty of cases that do the job. Here are the best iPhone 13 Pro Max cases you can buy.

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Keep that large iPhone safe and sound

The iPhone 13 Pro Max is chonkier than its smaller sibling the iPhone 13 Pro, so you'd best protect it with a great case. After all, this is one of the best iPhones ever, so it would be a shame if anything were to happen to it so soon after you receive it, right? While you're at it, make sure to grab a great screen protector for your iPhone 13 Pro Max too, so it remains in 100% pristine condition.

If you need something on the more affordable side, then check out Spigen's Ultra Hybrid. This clear case is easy to get on and off your iPhone 13 Pro Max when you need it, and it offers good protection. Plus, the colored bumpers add a nice splash of color to complement your iPhone 13 Pro Max color choice. Speaking of splashes, if you're looking to take your phone into the water, you'd best check our list of the best waterproof iPhone cases.

We also like the Kate Spade New York Hardshell Cases with MagSafe. They come in gorgeous designs and patterns that definitely stand out, and they provide great protection as well.

The iPhone 13 Pro is one of the best iPhones out there, even if it is a few years old now. Whether you never picked up a case or are looking for a brand new one, these cases are some of the best. Based on your needs you can find options that offer lots of protection, style, and functionality.

These are the best iPhone 13 Pro cases right now, for every use case, so you can protect your investment.

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Q & A

We know that plenty of manufacturers have MagSafe-compatible cases now, but we also know that some are thin enough to charge using MagSafe without being officially compatible. So, of course, it ultimately depends on the case. In the end, if you buy a case that's not considered fully MagSafe compatible, you risk it not working — so consider your choice wisely. We also recommend the best MagSafe-compatible iPhone 13 Pro cases, so you don't have to waste much time researching there. 

With plenty of iPhone 13 Pro cases on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. Luckily, we've reviewed several on this list to help you narrow it down.

The Spigen Thin Fit case is awesome because its price is pretty reasonable while providing great protection in a minimal form factor. Fans of minimalism will love this thin fit case that can show off the color of your iPhone 13 Pro without sacrificing protection.

If you need MagSafe compatibility, the Nomad Leather Folio Case for iPhone 13 Pro is a tad expensive but very much worth it. With a ton of space for cards, cash, and your ID, you'll never need to bring your real wallet with you again. Plus, leather lovers will love the unique patina it develops over time. If you're looking for more of the best MagSafe cases for iPhone 13 Pro specifically, we've rounded up lots more options. Don't forget to check out the best iPhone 13 Pro screen protectors as well for even more protection.

Apple introduced the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2021. Like in previous years, the professional models came in Graphite, Silver, and Gold. Unique to this model is the eye-catching Sierra Blue model, plus (as of Spring 2022) an earthy Alpine Green. Here's a brief look at each available handset to help you choose from the available iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max colors. Happy shopping!

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Graphite

The Graphite iPhone 13 Pro is an excellent choice that works well with a range of cases. Understated yet commanding, Graphite is elegant and the little black dress or tuxedo of iPhones. It goes with everything but doesn't distract from your personal style. If you're the kind of person that tends to shy away from flashy fashion but wants your iPhone to show off your power moves, the Graphite model will match your suit and your workout wear perfectly.

Alpine Green

The newest iPhone 13 series color will remind you of summer days when there is green everywhere. It's a beautiful new color that came as a surprise when it was announced. Of all the iPhone Pro and iPhone Pro Max colors, Alpine Green is the most reminiscent of trees, grass, and the outdoors in general. This is the one for nature lovers.

Sierra Blue

This was my own personal choice of color. I love that the Sierra Blue is colorful and yet neutral enough to go with just about everything. The hue reminds me of a well-loved, nicely broken-in pair of jeans. That isn't to say this color only goes with casual wear; as it happens, it went beautifully with the formal dress I wore to my daughter's wedding. Sierra Blue makes a fashionable statement without being flashy or flash-in-the-pan trendy.

Silver

Silver, like Graphite, is a classic color. The white backside looks like white satin gloves. If you ever thought white was boring, this beauty will change your mind. It's rich like vanilla ice cream and clean-looking like an Apple Store. It's an Apple design through and through. It's got a little bit more of a "wow factor" than the Graphite model. So if you like to turn heads but don't like to show off, Silver is more your speed. It balances the line between classic and eye-catching. It also looks especially good with some of the more fashionable and best iPhone 13 Pro cases on the market, particularly the ones with a translucent wash of color.

Gold

Gold is definitely the flashiest color of this group. It's definitely a show-off—that gorgeous yellow glint sparkling at you from afar. If you feel like a king or a queen, this is the royal iPhone. It's not wild, though. It's more akin to a thin gold necklace or a small pair of diamond earrings. Of all the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max colors, there is just enough flash here to make people look, but not so much that your friends start questioning your choices. If you want to be noticed but like to do so in a subtle way ("Oh, me? You noticed my gold iPhone? Why thank you,") the Gold iPhone hits the sweet spot without being over-the-top.

The ultimate iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro color is up to you

Each iPhone 13 Pro on this list is the same on the inside. And yet, choosing the perfect color is essential to the buying process.

The Graphite iPhone 13 Pro is probably the one to pick for most folks. Like Black and Space Gray iPhones before it, the Graphite iPhone 13 Pro is smooth and iconic. However, if you're looking for something brand new and different, nothing beats the Sierra Blue iPhone 13 Pro. It's nearly as dark as the graphite version but different.

Are you looking for something more ordinary? If color isn't your thing or you dislike the Sierra Blue iPhone 13 Pro's pastel looks, consider the Silver iPhone Pro, Gold iPhone Pro, or Alpine Green iPhone Pro. 

All of the finishes are gorgeous and ready for close-ups, and all are among the best iPhones on the market. Whatever color you decide, happy shopping, and enjoy your new iPhone! 

Protecting your phone is always of paramount importance - particularly when your phone is the expensive and massive iPhone 13 Pro Max. The best way to protect your phone is with a case that wraps around your phone, giving it a little protective bubble to save it from bumps and drops. Spigen has made iPhone cases for a long time, and their current line-up has some great options - particularly this Ultra Hybrid case, available in a range of different crystal finishes.

Save 50% on Spigen iPhone 13 Pro Max protection

A clear case is always fun, especially as they let you see the phone you spent $1000 on. Spigen has engineered their best case tech into this clear, Ultra Hybrid case, so you'll get all the protection of their best products with all the visual flare of a see-through case.

MagSafe will still work through the case's rear, so all of the features of your iPhone will remain intact. You can choose between Crystal clear, Rose Crystal, Sand Bridge, Midnight Green, and Sierra Blue, so there's a color to match every iPhone. It is a thick case going on to an already thick phone, but with the protection it offers, it's well worth the trade-off. Normally, the case would be $30, so this deal makes a premium case a little more affordable, giving you the performance of something far more expensive for a better price. If this case isn't quite what you're looking for, check out the best iPhone 13 Pro Max cases.

For a lot of people, including myself, the iPhone is their primary digital camera. But for years, the iPhone has only been able to shoot in standard JPEG or HEIC/HEIF format, unless you went with some kind of third-party app for RAW format. While JPEG or HEIC/HEIF is good enough format for most people, especially when all they do is post the picture on Instagram, others want a little more control over the photo in the post-editing process. This is when you need RAW format.

Since the iPhone 12 Pro, Apple introduced a new format: Apple ProRAW. This format is only available on the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro models, including the Max versions, respectively. But if you don't have one of these devices, you're not completely out of luck, as there are plenty of third-party camera apps that support shooting in RAW.

Here's everything you need to know about how to shoot RAW photos on your favorite iPhone.

What is RAW?

For the uninitiated, RAW format is mostly used by professional photographers who shoot with DSLRs, and these files are completely unprocessed and rather large in size and complexity. However, they give you the most freedom when it comes to editing. You have complete control over things like white balance, exposure, tones, and color in the post-editing process, and as you make edits, you don't degrade the image quality.

This is the opposite of JPG and HEIC/HEIF format, which is what the iPhone typically uses. With JPG and HEIC/HEIF, photos are already processed when you shoot the image, so the files are a convenient, smaller size but more compressed than a RAW image. It's a tradeoff: RAW files are large and complex but give you complete control, while JPG and HEIC/HEIF are small and convenient but offer less options when it comes to editing, at least without losing image quality.

What is Apple ProRAW?

Apple ProRAW is essentially a hybrid format, a middle ground between shooting in pure RAW with the convenience of JPG/HEIF. Apple says it is "the best of both worlds." With Apple ProRAW, it is a powerful option for those who have been intimidated or put-off by RAW in the past, while those who like RAW won't miss out on clever multi-frame processing tech like Deep Fusion.

This is how Alok Deshpande, Apple's Senior Manager of Camera Software Engineering, explains ProRAW:

During the iPhone 12 event in 2020, Apple said that ProRAW editing will occur right in the Photos app on your iPhone. ProRAW is also available in other third-party apps thanks to a native API, which allows third-party camera apps to capture in ProRAW format directly, as long as the developer has implemented it.

Apple ProRAW images are around 25MB in size on average. There are fine differences between a ProRAW image and a standard JPG/HEIF, which we compared last year. It may be hard to tell the difference, but understand that ProRAW images tend to look not as "good" as a processed image because you're going to be editing it after the fact.

How do you shoot in Apple ProRAW format?

If you have an iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, or iPhone 13 Pro Max, then you can toggle Apple ProRAW format right now. But you need to enable it from the device settings first.

1. Launch Settings on your supported iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on Camera.

3. Select Formats.
4. Tap the toggle for Apple ProRAW.

Once this setting is turned on, you can quickly turn on RAW when shooting photographs with the native Camera app.

1. Launch the Camera app on your supported iPhone.
2. Tap the RAW button in the upper right corner to turn Apple ProRAW on or off.
3. Press the shutter button.

Any ProRAW images in your Camera Roll will have the RAW label when viewing. Since these images can be about 25MB on average, it's best to make your edits and then move the file off of your iPhone, especially if you have a smaller storage capacity device.

How do you shoot in RAW on other iPhones?

Even if you have the regular iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 mini, you won't have ProRAW capabilities, unfortunately. However, you can still shoot in RAW on iPhone, but you need a third-party app that supports RAW or ProRAW format. We have a list of a few of the best RAW camera apps, but one of my personal favorites is Halide.

Most apps will have their own settings panel where you can enable RAW capture. Here's how to do it in Halide.

1. Launch Halide on your iPhone.
2. Under the viewfinder is a panel — swipe up to reveal more options, including Settings.
3. Tap the Settings gear icon.

4. Select Capture.
5. Ensure that the Coverage toggle is ON (yellow).
6. Tap on either RAW+ or RAW.
   • RAW+ captures a RAW file with a processed HEIC image
   • RAW is a single DNG RAW file

If you are using Halide on an iPhone that supports ProRAW format, you will also see ProRAW and ProRAW+ formats. The regular ProRAW format gets you a DNG in ProRAW format, which is a slower capture speed than the regular RAW formats. There is also ProRAW+, which gets you a DNG file in ProRAW format as well as HEIC file. This is the slowest method, and it takes even more space than regular ProRAW.

For those who use another app, like Manual, you'll need to dig around in your chosen app's settings to find the toggle for RAW capture.

Get the most control with RAW photos on iPhone

If you are looking for the most complete editing process where you are in total control of every element of a photo, then you need to go RAW. However, Apple's ProRAW format is exclusive to iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro devices, so you'll need one of those to be able to use that specific format. ProRAW is a good middle-ground between your typical JPEG/HEIF and RAW photo. But do keep in mind that these ProRAW images are very large in file size, so you want to make sure to offload them ASAP once you're done editing them. And if you don't have an iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro, you can still take RAW images, you simply need the right app for the job!

Updated July 2022: The information has been updated and current with the latest versions of iOS.

What you need to know

• Kaiann Drance, Apple's Vice President of iPhone Marketing, sat down for a new interview.
• The Apple executive joined Tyler Stalman on his podcast to talk about the Macro Challenge.
• Stalman also interviewed a number of the winners of the challenge.

Earlier today, Apple unveiled the winners of its Shot on iPhone Macro Challenge.

To celebrate the winners and talk about the capabilities of iPhone photography in general, Kaiann Drance, Apple's Vice President of iPhone Marketing, sat down with Tyler Stalman on his podcast of the same name. Stalman also sat down with the winners of the content, including Trevor Collins, Ashley Lee, Guido Cassanelli, Abhik Mondal, and Daniel Olah.

You can watch the full episode of the podcast episode on YouTube below:

The episode isn't available on Apple Podcasts just yet but hopefully will be soon for everyone who would rather listen to the interviews.

The winning photos, which were voted upon by an expert panel, will be featured on Apple's website, its Instagram page, and on billboards in select cities.

Of course, the Macro Challenge was only available to iPhone owners with an iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max, as Macro-mode is currently only available on those two models. You can check out all of the winning photos in our coverage from earlier.

The iPhone 13 Pro was a marvel when it arrived in 2021. It built on the solid foundation of the iPhone 12 Pro, and added the stunning 120Hz Super Retina XDR Display that has become foundational to the iPhone 14 Pro since. It also had an amazing new camera system, and a stunning array of colors, including that incredible mid-season green. 

So how does the iPhone 13 Pro stack up alongside the iPhone 14 Pro, and the impending iPhone 15 in 2023? The answer, as you might expect, is quite well. Like it's little brother the iPhone 13, the incremental nature of iPhone updates means that year-to-year there's often not much to choose from, so how Pro should you go when it comes to iPhone?

iPhone 13 Pro: 2023 review

The iPhone 13 Pro is definitely a great choice in 2023, even though it's definitely not Apple's best iPhone anymore. While Apple doesn't sell the iPhone 13 Pro outright, you can get it all over the place, online and through your favorite carriers, at some really excellent prices, amplifying the value of this excellent handset. 

The iPhone 13 Pro has a 120Hz display and 5G, two really powerful features that mean it stacks up well with the iPhone 14 Pro, and definitely the iPhone 14. In fact, it has the same A15 processor that carried over to the current iPhone 14, meaning you're going to get software support for iOS 17 and beyond for years to come. 

The iPhone 14 Pro does boast a couple of key advantages. The Dynamic Island in the latest model is a vast improvement on the notch of the iPhone 13 Pro, and it also offers a massive 48MP camera. If you buy your iPhones with photography in mind, that last feature is a game-changer and should steer you towards the iPhone 14 Pro. 

The iPhone 13 Pro does still offer Cinematic mode, adding depth effects to your subjects, as well as ProRes support. 

Pushing the boat out for iPhone 14 Pro will get you the amazing Always-On Display, as well as Emergency SOS via satellite and crash detection. It also comes with Autofocus on the front camera and the amazing photonic engine, as well as action mode. Battery life is also slightly more improved in the iPhone 14 Pro this year.

The iPhone 13 Pro is definitely a better choice than the regular iPhone 14 right now, but the iPhone 14 Pro was a big leap. What's more, the iPhone 15 lineup with USB-C, an all-new design, and more is just around the corner, so you might want to pause a few more weeks before making a decision.  The iPhone 15 Pro is also promising the A17 Bionic chip and an all-new design. 

iPhone 13 Pro: Price and availability

The iPhone 13 Pro can be bought with your carrier of choice or even unlocked from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Costco, and more, though these places usually sell the device locked to a carrier. You can also get the iPhone 13 Pro from your carrier of choice, like Verizon and Mint Mobile.

There were initially four iPhone Pro and iPhone Pro Max colors: Sierra Blue, Graphite, Gold, and Silver, and then later Alpine Green. It's not currently available directly from Apple, but some of the best iPhone deals currently available include the iPhone 13 Pro from carriers like Verizon. 

iPhone 13 Pro: Hardware and design

In terms of hardware and design, the iPhone 13 Pro looked pretty much the same as the iPhone 12 Pro before it, except for two differences: a much larger camera bump and a smaller notch. While the camera modules look very similar, if you have the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro side-by-side, the bigger camera bump is very obvious (even when compared with the iPhone 11 Pro).

On the other hand, the notch is less blatant but easy to see if you have them together to compare. According to Apple, the notch is about 20% smaller than the iPhone 12 Pro. However, while I appreciate the smaller size of the notch, it seems to be all for naught. Apple chooses to waste this screen estate by simply making the existing text and icons in the status bar larger, rather than adding more in there, such as battery percentage (one benefit of the new iPhone SE). Honestly, I'm not a fan, and it still bugs me. Indeed, the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 14 Pro is a massive step up from the iPhone 13 Pro's notch, and definitely a strong reason to consider the newer model. 

While all iPhone 13 models have the Ceramic Shield front, the big differentiator between the standard and the Pro is the material used for the edges. Since the standard iPhone 13 uses aerospace-grade aluminum, it's pretty lightweight. However, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max both use surgical-grade stainless steel, which adds quite a bit of heft and weight. And even though the iPhone 12 Pro also used stainless steel bands, the iPhone 13 Pro is slightly heavier because of the larger camera module. You get used to it, but it's noticeable, especially coming from a lighter phone like the iPhone SE (2022). Also, depending on how your hands are, hand and finger fatigue may be an issue, especially with your wrist and pinky when using it one-handed.

Another significant difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro is the display. The iPhone 13 Pro nets you a Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion, which means it has an adaptive refresh rate starting at 10Hz and going all the way up to 120Hz. The refresh rate that the display has depends on the content on the screen and the user interaction. While a previous bug seemed to lock developer's apps to a 60Hz refresh rate, this was resolved with the iOS 15.4 update, as developers can now take full advantage of the 120Hz refresh rate.

The ProMotion display is not super noticeable in day-to-day use for most people. However, once you use it and then go to an iPhone without it, such as the iPhone SE, it is very apparent. I notice it when scrolling through pretty much everything, but the iPhone 13 Pro's ProMotion display is best shown off when playing resource-intensive mobile games since you get smoother motion and transitions. It also helps when you need to do a lot of photos or video editing on the go, as colors and motions are much more vibrant and polished.

Since I'm not a heavy gamer, especially on mobile, I'm probably not taking full advantage of the ProMotion display. However, it's become something that I don't want to do without on an iPhone because everything just looks so much better, especially since it's also OLED. Not everyone can notice the difference, but it's part of the hardware that I want to see in future iterations because it makes all the difference.

Even though the iPhone 13 Pro retained the overall design of the iPhone 12 Pro, which honestly was a homage back to the iPhone 5 era (the best), it's not perfect. I love the flat edges over the rounded ones from the iPhone 6 to iPhone 11, but the large camera module is a little annoying when it comes to certain situations. I also wish Apple decided to do more with the space recovered from having a smaller notch, but that was a waste. Truth be told, the iPhone 12 Pro did better with the overall hardware and design. But I'll be damned if that ProMotion display is not worth upgrading to, especially if you want to do a lot of gaming or graphics-intensive stuff on the iPhone.

iPhone 13 Pro: Software and performance

The iPhone 13 Pro ships with iOS 16, the latest version of Apple's iPhone software, which you can read more about in our iOS 16 review.

Since the iPhone 13 Pro has the A15 Bionic, iOS 16 still runs incredibly fast and will get software updates for several years to come, including the upcoming iOS 17 release. One of the advantages of the iPhone 13 Pro over the regular iPhone 13 is that it has 6GB of RAM instead of 4GB. Several years ago, with iOS 13, the limited amount of RAM was an issue because apps would often need to reload once you come back to them after an extended period. In my daily use of the iPhone 13 Pro, I honestly have not noticed that to be as big a problem as before. I'm sure that this is due to iOS 16 being more efficient with app management, but also having the extra bit of RAM with the Pro models helps out quite a bit.

I have encountered a few moments with my iPhone 13 Pro where it seems to freeze up. Still, usually, at that point, it's because my device has been going strong for weeks at a time — I expect the occasional hiccup now and then, where I need to reboot the device for a fresh start (this applies to literally every machine). But for the most part, my iPhone 13 Pro has been just as snappy as the first day I got it. I feel that it may not be as fast as a completely new iPhone, but that's probably because I have several hundred gigabytes of data stored on my 1TB iPhone 13 Pro. With almost 30,000 photos on my Camera Roll alone, it's still chugging along nicely. To me, it's the little iPhone 13 Pro that could.

iPhone 13 Pro: Battery

A big strength of the iPhone 13 Pro is the battery. It is a bit of an improvement over its predecessor since it's 3095mAh, slightly bigger than the 2815mAh of the iPhone 12 Pro. Apple claims that the iPhone 13 Pro battery life should last about 22 hours (over the 17 hours of the 12 Pro), which should be enough to get you through an entire day before you need to reach for a charger.

One of the problems that I encountered with my iPhone 12 Pro was that the battery health had degraded to less than 90% (I recalled it reached about 85% or so) around the 6-month mark. I believe that the culprit was either iOS 14.5 or iOS 14.6, which caused excessive battery drain for many people, including myself. 

On average, my iPhone 13 Pro battery can easily last through an entire day, and only maybe I need to grab a Lightning cable in the late evening. I also have set up an automation in the Shortcuts app to enable Low Power Mode when the battery dips below 30%, which helps. If I plan a full day at Disneyland, which happens pretty often, I stretch the battery out as much as possible by keeping Low Power Mode on pretty much all day. However, even if I'm there for a few hours with heavy use of the cameras and the Disneyland app, the battery can get me through without breaking a sweat.

Of course, while the iPhone 13 Pro battery is pretty dang strong, I hardly ever go anywhere without one of the best portable battery packs or even a MagSafe battery pack. Still, I don't always need to bust those battery packs out with my average use. I suppose mileage may vary significantly here, but for most people, the iPhone 13 Pro battery is great, even six months later, as long as you take care of it. I tend to plugin for a little bit if I'm below 50% around late afternoon at the park or with a cable if I'm below 30% at home. But a guarantee for me is plugging it in overnight with Optimized Battery Charging turned on. If you turn off Optimized Battery Charging, it may charge your phone faster but with faster degradation.

But if you want to take it a step further and wouldn't mind the giant screen size, then the iPhone 13 Pro Max is on a whole other level with a 4352mAh battery packed inside.

iPhone 13 Pro: Cameras

I went with the iPhone 13 Pro over the standard iPhone 13 because of the triple-lens camera system. Plus, there are no differences in the cameras between the iPhone 13 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro Max, so there's no reason to go with the Max unless you just want the bigger screen and battery. With the iPhone 13 Pro camera system, you have 12MP Telephoto (ƒ/2.8 aperture), Wide (ƒ/1.5 aperture, and Ultra Wide (ƒ/1.8 aperture) lenses in the rear, and 12MP TrueDepth with ƒ/2.2 aperture in the front. I know many people prefer to use the best digital camera for photography, but personally, I just use my iPhone because I already have it with me everywhere, rather than having to lug around separate gear. Therefore, all of the photos in this review and all other images I shoot for work are taken with an iPhone.

With the iPhone 13 Pro, I've taken hundreds, if not thousands, of photos (you end up taking many pictures when you're at Disneyland and have a new baby). With that in mind, I've used the camera on the iPhone 13 Pro quite extensively, and honestly, it's my favorite way to shoot.

Since the iPhone 13 Pro has a larger aperture than the iPhone 12 Pro, more light can enter the camera sensor when shooting, resulting in better overall brightness, exposure, color, and even depth of field in images. During the day, you'll end up with images that look vibrant, crisp, and mostly true to life. In addition, because of larger sensors, I found that the iPhone 13 Pro is less reliant on Night mode in low light situations, so results are less blown out and more realistic. Of course, Night mode still works on the iPhone 13 Pro for super dim conditions, but less exposure time is needed with Night mode due to a larger aperture. If you're curious how low light images between the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro look head-on, check out my comparison images below in my original iPhone 13 Pro camera review. It's also important to note that all three lenses (Telephoto, Wide, and Ultra Wide) can now handle low light situations and use Night mode.

Before we dive into the specific iPhone 13 Pro camera features, one thing I noticed that changed slightly is with Portrait mode. Previously, the iPhone 12 Pro had 1x or 2x Portrait mode because of its 2x optical zoom range. With the iPhone 13 Pro, Portrait mode is now either 1x or 3x due to the 3x optical zoom range. I'm not a big fan of this change, as I need to be even further back when doing Portrait mode photos by default (1x doesn't look quite as good for most shots). After using it this long, it's one of my big qualms with the iPhone 13 Pro camera.

An exclusive new camera feature for the iPhone 13 Pro was Macro mode, also now available on the iPhone 14 Pro. This was the first time an iPhone could do macro photography without needing an external lens accessory, and it works remarkably well. Macro mode will occur while you're using the standard Wide camera lens. Once you're considered close enough to the subject, Macro mode kicks in and utilizes the ultra-wide camera lens to autofocus but will still have the 1x crop ratio of the standard camera. Macro lets you get up to 2cm within a subject and is available for photos and video.

I often like shooting macro photos when I can because it is so interesting to see the finer characteristics of tiny things. The macro shots that the iPhone 13 Pro produces look great — you can quickly see textures and details that you may have never noticed before with the naked eye. However, Macro mode does require a steady hand and tons of light; the more camera shake you have, the harder it is for the macro image to be crisp and clear. The sensor-shift optical image stabilization helps out a lot, but I have noticed there's still a bit of blurring toward the edges, even if I thought I was holding it completely still. However, the center or focus point on a macro image should be sharp if done correctly, which I honestly find impressive for a smartphone. The only drawback is that Macro mode requires a lot of light; if you try to use Macro mode in dimly lit environments, they will look like crap. I also learned it is best to make sure that you aren't casting a shadow on your subject by having the iPhone too close because that doesn't look the best either.

When the iPhone 13 Pro first launched, there was some criticism regarding the automatic switching between normal and Macro mode. It was disorienting, especially if you weren't trying to shoot in macro. Thankfully, Apple has added a switch that lets you turn Macro mode off when taking photos, easing the pain.

Photographic Styles, Cinematic mode, and ProRes video

Photographic Styles is a new feature that Apple introduced with the iPhone 13 lineup, and it's even available on the iPhone SE (2022), thanks to A15 Bionic. With Photographic Styles, you can personalize the native camera's overall tone and warmth when capturing photos and video in real-time. So you end up with images that preserve skin tone while enhancing other areas. It's like a filter, but it's automatically applied to all of your photos by default and cannot be done after the fact. It's also what I would consider "destructive" editing since you cannot remove the style if you change your mind later.

I still choose not to use Photographic Styles and have stuck with the default "Standard" style. This is simply because I would rather fine-tune my photos in the editing process. Also, I don't particularly appreciate how Photographic Styles requires you to commit to one — I mean, I don't think one-size-fits-all fits in every situation, especially when it comes to photographs.

Before having a kid, I honestly did not take a lot of videos. However, this has changed with my new daughter because I take multiple videos every week! But truth be told, I have not used Cinematic mode or even ProRes. At the moment, it's not like my baby is running around just yet, so Cinematic mode and ProRes are just a waste for me. But for those serious about making videos with their iPhone, having these two capabilities is an excellent addition to the arsenal. They're not something that I'm making use of right now. Just remember that ProRes is not supported on the base 128GB models, since one minute of ProRes video can take up to 6GB alone.

iPhone 13 Pro: Competition

The biggest competition for the iPhone 13 Pro right now remains the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus and Google Pixel 6 Pro.

With the S22+, you'll have a slightly bigger display with brighter, even more advanced cameras, reverse charging capabilities, and up to 30x space zoom, which is double that of the iPhone 13 Pro's 15x digital zoom. You'll also have Android 12, which one-ups iOS in terms of things like customization. The price of these two devices is pretty similar, so it just comes down to a matter of preference of OS, as well as camera capabilities. Check our iPhone 13 Pro versus Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus buyer's guide for a closer look at how these two flagships stack up.

The other competition I mentioned is the Google Pixel 6 Pro, which is the favorite premium Android phone of our sister site, Android Central. While the hardware design is a little polarizing, the Pixel 6 Pro has a stunning OLED display, exceptional haptics, and some of the best cameras with 50MP. Plus, you get the Magic Eraser feature, which I would like Apple to have someday. And what's surprising is the fact that the Pixel 6 Pro starts off a little cheaper than the iPhone 13 Pro at just $899. So if you want a smartphone with beastly cameras and editing software, you definitely want to check out the Google Pixel 6 Pro.

iPhone 13 Pro: Should you buy it?

You want a gorgeous iPhone display

While Apple started to use OLED displays for the iPhone, starting with the iPhone X back in 2017, the company has taken it even further with the Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion. Colors look stunning and vibrant on this display, and the adaptive refresh rate, ranging from 10Hz to 120Hz, just makes everything so much smoother. So whether you're just scrolling through social media, playing graphically intensive games, or doing photo and video editing on the go, the ProMotion display makes sure that you see every little detail without missing a beat.

You want a great iPhone camera with a ton of space

For those who primarily use their iPhone as their main camera, the iPhone 13 Pro is a great choice. Because of the larger sensors on all three lenses, you can take excellent photos, even in low light. The Macro mode also lets you get up close and personal with macro photography without using a separate accessory. And while Photographic Styles, Cinematic mode, and ProRes video are lovely to have, they probably aren't something you'll use frequently. However, since the iPhone 13 Pro has a Telephoto lens, it gives it a slight one-up over the standard iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini cameras. Plus, with up to 1TB of storage, the Pro models are the only way to go if you plan on taking a lot of photos and videos.

You want a powerful iPhone that lasts all day

The battery in the iPhone 13 Pro is great, and it should make it through a full day before you need to plug it in. On my average daily use, it isn't until late evening that I even need to start looking for a charging cable. On my full days at Disneyland, it usually lasts all day if I enable Low Power Mode, or most of the day if I have it off — and this would be with a fairly heavy camera and Disneyland app usage. Thankfully, having some of the best MagSafe battery packs is convenient since I don't need a cable. And after my bad experience with the degradation of the iPhone 12 Pro battery after several months, I'm happy to report that my launch day iPhone 13 Pro is still at 100% battery health. Those who want a behemoth of battery life should also consider the iPhone 13 Pro Max, though the device's physical size may or may not be an issue.

You don't need ProMotion

While I love the ProMotion display, it honestly isn't something that many people will notice unless maybe using it side-by-side with a non-ProMotion device. Since the standard iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini still have OLED displays, they still look great for most people and are a few hundred dollars cheaper.

You don't need advanced camera features

If you're not a serious iPhone photographer, then you can go without the iPhone 13 Pro. After all, the iPhone 13 still has the Ultra-Wide lens, Photographic Styles, and Cinematic mode, so you still get most of the new camera features. However, the telephoto lens is only great if you zoom in on pictures a lot, and Macro mode is fun but unnecessary for everyone. And ProRes video is really for serious cinematographers, not the average person.

You don't need 1TB of storage

I was ecstatic when I heard that the iPhone 13 Pro was gaining a 1TB storage option, but this is overkill for many people. Even 512GB is a lot for most people. I believe the average person probably goes with 256GB max, if not the base storage. If you need no more than 512GB, you could even just go for the iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 mini. But for those who want advanced camera features and plan to snap many pictures, then the 512GB iPhone 13 Pro is still plenty.

It's pretty simple when you get right down to it — if you want a great iPhone without spending money on an iPhone 14 Pro, then the iPhone 13 Pro is the way to go. So while the regular iPhone 13 is what we recommend for most people, those who want an iPhone that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, and then some, should consider the iPhone 13 Pro.

The ProMotion may not seem like a big deal, but it's pretty noticeable if you compare it with non-ProMotion displays. It makes the overall iPhone experience feel so much better, and while it may not be as big as the first Retina display, it becomes something you want in future hardware releases.

Serious iPhone photographers should also not hesitate with the iPhone 13 Pro camera — triple lens (Telephoto, Wide, and Ultra Wide) with Night mode (thanks, LiDAR), Apple ProRAW, and Macro mode; along with Photographic Styles, Cinematic mode, and ProRes video? So you have a seriously powerful camera rig in your pocket. Plus, with up to 1TB of storage, you can shoot many photos and videos for your next masterpiece.

Finally, the iPhone 13 Pro battery is going strong. This phone will definitely get you through the day on a single charge, and even if you need to top it off during the day, having MagSafe compatibility for battery packs is convenient. While I'm not a fan of the large size of the iPhone 13 Pro Max, the battery on that one could even last you a day and a half or more.

Whether it's revealed at the "Peek Performance" spring event or later in the year, an Apple AR/VR headset is almost certainly in the works. Heavily anticipated for many years, the headset will arrive with the Facebook/Meta Oculus Quest 2 firmly in control of the growing market. What the iPhone maker has learned from this product will go a long way in determining its success.

I'm somewhat new to the AR/VR space, but it's one I find fascinating and even more so after spending some time with the Meta product. Based on that, I have some ideas about what the Apple AR/VR headset needs to become the company's next great product.

Various features on both the hardware and software sides are essential for the Apple AR/VR headset to find broad success. Notice that I used the word broad here, not niche. I expect one of the biggest surprises about the headset will be its many uses out of the box that will go beyond the most obvious, gaming. Other factors are also important such as content, battery life, and feel.

Note: Apple VR/AR headset mockup photos are from LetsGoDigital and Concept Creator.

Comfort

The Oculus Quest 2 is said to be much more comfortable than its predecessor, but it still hurts on the head after just a few minutes of play. Meta's extra "elite" strap does improve things, but not nearly enough.

I do not doubt that Apple has learned from this and will release a product that's much easier on the head and ears. For this to work, however, the company needs to consider the many head sizes out there. Just as it offers a 41mm and 45mm Apple Watch to suit different wrist sizes, Apple should offer different sized bands for the headset or make one band easy enough to adjust to fit everyone.

Third-parties currently offer prescription lenses for the Oculus Quest 2. Wouldn't it be nice if Apple itself did the same for its product? Although this sounds much more like a second-generation product option, Apple would make a lot of folks happy by offering this type of service on day one.

Battery life

The Oculus Quest 2 offers 2 1/2 hours of battery life between charges, although this can differ significantly depending on what you're doing. For about $100 extra, you can purchase the Oculus Quest 2 Elite Strap With Battery and double this amount.

With Apple Watches still stuck at 18 hours of run time through many generations, I don't expect the Apple AR/VR headset to set the world on fire in terms of battery life. And yet, we can all hope that whatever the number, it will increase on future generations. In the interim, fast charging would be nice. The Meta headset takes about an hour to reach 100%. Hopefully, Apple's device offers similar capabilities.

Storage

Honestly, I have no idea what storage is necessary for an AR/VR headset. The Oculus Quest 2 is available with 128GB or 256GB, which sounds right, although I'm not basing this on any science. Two initial storage levels seem right for the Apple device, although don't be surprised if we only get one at launch.

Content is king

I am most impressed with what Meta's been doing on the content front on the Oculus Quest 2. It's an experience that primarily focuses on gaming, which shouldn't come as a surprise. However, fitness, entertainment, and social offerings are also there and, from what I hear, are getting better with each passing month.

Apple's headset should have no problem lapping Meta with content from the start. After all, the App Store brings users to iPhone and iPad time and time again. I expect the first Apple AR/VR demos will focus on gaming, although fitness is where I believe the company will most surprise us. Apple Fitness+ should fit in nicely with AR/VR, and integration with Apple Watch should be expected.

I'm most excited to see what Apple plans on the entertainment front. Third-parties such as Netflix, YouTube, and NBA League Pass have a presence on Meta's headset with varying degrees of success. My favorite entertainment feature is Bigscreen, a virtual theater where you can view movies with family and friends. I'm hoping Apple takes its TV app to fun, new levels on AR/VR and fully incorporates Apple TV+ into the product. Early third-party partners such as Disney HBO Max could really add some excitement for those less inclined to play games on a virtual headset.

Price

Rumors have suggested Apple will charge up to $3,000 for its new headset. This is absolute nonsense, especially when you can purchase the Oculus Quest 2 for as little as $299. Instead, I expect the Apple AR/VR headset will launch at just under $1,000, perhaps as low as $700. Apple can offer the headset as a premium product at these price points but still make it reachable for its everyday customers who buy one of the best iPhones each year.

What others think

The iMore team is very excited about the arrival of an Apple AR/VR headset and has various opinions on what we want to see with it.

Jaclyn Kilani, for example, hopes it's "smaller and (more) streamlined" than what's on the market today, while Joe Wituschek suggests this is merely a stepping stone to AR glasses.

Luke Filipowicz hopes Apple's concentrating on consumer-level features but is concerned about the rumored price tag — as we all are. However, Carli Velocci suggests it won't be a customer product out of the gate, so "the high price might not even matter."

What say you?

It's not very often Apple announces a new product line, which is exactly what an AR/VR headset would become. So what do you hope to see on it? What should it be called? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

This week on the iMore Show, we discuss the upcoming Apple event and Karen, Luke, and Stephen talk about the weirdest apps on their phones.

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What you need to know

• Apple has commissioned a new 'Shot on iPhone' film.
• Life is But a Dream was filmed on iPhone 13 Pro.
• It tells the story of an undertaker who awakens a ghost when they dig up an abandoned grave.

Apple has commissioned and released a new short 'Shot on iPhone' film to help demonstrate the filmmaking power of the iPhone 13.

The new 20-minute film was released by Apple on Friday:

Apple has released not only the film but a short 'making of' video detailing how director Park Chan-wook brought his vision to life with iPhone 13 in the new movie.

Park said it was "amazing" that they could shoot a film like this with an iPhone and praised the phone's Cinematic mode that lets you quickly shift focus to and from different levels of the shot. The team also praised the camera's low light performance and its tiny form factor compared to a traditional camera. Park said the iPhone's camera was "comparable to any professional camera."

It's been a while since I've reviewed a phone case, and that's because most cases I throw my iPhone 13 Pro into are pretty similar. Sure, there are thin, heavy-duty, silicone, hard plastic, and leather cases, but no case ever feels different enough to really stand out to me. Then I tried the dbrand Grip Case.

There's a reason this case made it onto our best iPhone 13 Pro cases list, and it's because it actually lives up to the hype.

dbrand Grip case: Price and availability

The dbrand Grip Case is only available through dbrand, and it costs about $40 - $45 depending on what phone model you have. However, dbrand carries the Grip Case for a lot of different phones — especially iPhone — models. So, even though I'm talking about my experience with the iPhone 13 Pro, if you like what you hear and want to get a Grip Case for your phone, chances are dbrand can hook you up.

dbrand Grip case: What you'll like

Many companies like to use various marketing buzz words to sell their products, and when the Grip Case first came around, dbrand was sure to let everyone know that it had made the grippiest case ever. It was probably the claim I was looking forward to testing the most, and I was delighted to find out that their marketing was accurate.

I've never felt a case like this before, and it feels so secure in the hand. The entire edge of the case — you know, the part you grip onto — has this rough texture that feels a little weird but nigh impossible to drop. It's almost like running your hand against extra-fine grit sandpaper. Plus, the little bars along the side do provide a great place to rest your fingers without them sliding down and off the phone.

The way the case curves so that the edges of the case and the middle section of the phone are almost flush also helps to ensure that your phone stays in your hand. At the same time, it still allows you to swipe and tap on your screen with ease. With some more heavy-duty cases, the lip around the edge of the iPhone can get in the way of swiping up to unlock your phone or pulling down on the Control Center. The smaller lip on the dbrand case eliminates this issue. Don't worry, though; there is still a lip, so you can continue to lay your iPhone screen down and it will be just fine.

Of course, the biggest reason to get a dbrand phone case is all the skins you can buy. The back of the dbrand Grip Case is perfect for applying the wide variety of skins available to spice up your iPhone. With different patterns, colors, and even textures available, you'll likely find something you like. Just remember that grabbing a skin is an extra cost.

dbrand Grip Case: What you won't like

Honestly, I only really have two complaints about the dbrand case, and both are pretty minor.

First, the case is a bit pricey. The iPhone case market is huge, and there are a ton of great cases out there that come in a lot cheaper than what dbrand offers. To dbrand's credit, there is nothing that is an exact copy, but if the idea of spending $40+ on an iPhone case makes your skin crawl, the Grip Case isn't for you.

Lastly, the texture that makes the case so dang grippy also collects and attracts dust and dirt like no tomorrow. If you look at the photo above, you can see all the dust that's collected on the side of the case, and that's only a few seconds after wiping the case and phone down.

dbrand Grip Case: Competition

While it's not similar in style, the PopSockets PopCase is a great way to get a grip on your iPhone. Not only can you modify the placing of the PopSocket on the back to get the most comfortable grip possible, but you can also even switch the grip out for different colors. This offers some similar customization like the dbrand Grip Case.

If you don't care about the drband skins at all, the Speck Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe feels very secure in hand thanks to its textured ridges. It also offers 13-foot drop protection so it's no slouch when it comes to protecting your phone. It's about the same price as the dbrand Grip Case, but it does have a more traditional lip around the edges of the phone, which some people like better than the smaller lip on the Grip Case.

Honestly, cases are such a personal style that all cases compete with each other. All the best iPhone 13 cases can be pretty comparable depending on what you're looking for in a case. I will say, I personally haven't tried anything as grippy as the dbrand Grip, but there are plenty of options that are just as protective and even customizable in their own way.

dbrand Grip Case: Should you buy it?

• Like thin but protective cases
• Want a case that won't fall out of your hand
• Like dbrand skins

• You don't want to spend $45 on a case
• You're bothered by dust collecting on cases

If you don't want to spend $40+, the Grip Case just isn't for you. Other than that, I can't find any major flaws with the Grip Case, making it an excellent choice for many people.

For me, it really comes down to that grippy feel. I love it so much because the phone feels extremely secure in my hand, and as a bit of a klutz, I need that feature.

Yes, the texture can be a little odd to get used to at first, and if you're particularly picky about the cleanliness of your phone, all the dust the case collects may irk you a little. But, its military-grade drop protection and customizability with skins really complete the entire package to offer a very compelling iPhone case.

What you need to know

• Apple's iOS 15.4 update is now in the hands of developers.
• A bug that locked apps to a 60Hz refresh even on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro has been fixed.
• Third-party apps will be able to take full advantage of 120Hz ProMotion on high-end iPhones once iOS 15.4 ships to the public.

Apple's new iOS 15.4 update will allow third-party apps to make full use of the 120Hz ProMotion display in iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

When Apple released iPhone 13 Pro and its larger sibling late last year, the addition of a super-fluid ProMotion feature was a big deal. 120Hz refresh should have made apps buttery smooth during movement and scrolling, but a bug was discovered that prevented some apps from anything higher than 60Hz. According to Apollo developer Christian Selig, that now appears to have been dealt with. Apple confirmed to them that the bug has been fixed in iOS 15.4 and that "all apps automatically get 120Hz animations" with the update installed.

This is indeed good news and it is something that has been confirmed by Selig's own tests.

Some rumors have suggested that the upcoming iPhone 14 lineup will offer 120Hz ProMotion across all devices, although that seems unlikely given the costs and production requirements involved. For now, anyone with an iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max can look forward to iOS 15.4 arriving and then enjoying some silky smooth in-app animations.

Unfortunately, we don't yet know when we can expect iOS 15.4 to be released to the public — Apple only made the first beta available to developers yesterday.

What you need to know

• Apple has released "The Comeback," a new short film for Chinese New Year.
• The latest short film was shot on the iPhone 13 Pro.
• Apple also released a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film.

Every Chinese New Year, Apple releases a short film that was shot on the iPhone to celebrate the holiday. This year is no different.

Today, Apple debuted "The Comeback," a new short film that tells the story of "a father, a son and a forgotten village with an out-of-this-world dream." You can watch the new short film, which was shot on the iPhone 13 Pro, below:

The company also released "Making of "The Comeback" with Zhang Meng," a behind-the-scenes look at the short film with the director. You can watch the behind-the-scenes video as well:

The iPhone 13 Pro, which is highlighted in the quality of the short film, features an upgraded camera system and support for ProRes video.

What you need to know

• Apple has released a slew of new iPhone 13 Pro ads.
• Each ad highlights one of the new features added with the latest pro iPhone.
• The ads showcase Cinematic mode, low light performance, and optical zoom.

Apple has released three new ads that show off the video capabilities of the iPhone 13 Pro.

From Cinematic mode to low light performance to optical zoom, each video highlights a different feature that was added with the company's latest Pro iPhone.

You can check out each of the new videos below:

Detectives | Cinematic mode

Basement | Advanced low light video

Pavel | 3x optical zoom

In addition to the above features, the iPhone 13 Pro also added a ProMotion 120Hz display, longer battery life, and a faster processor.

If you're trying to figure out which iPhone is best for you, check out our comparison between the iPhone 13 vs iPhone 13 Pro.

What you need to know

• Caviar's Stealth 2.0 Black is a new bulletproof iPhone 13.
• Pricing starts at $6,370 for a 128GB iPhone 13 Pro.
• $7,980 gets you an iPhone 13 Pro Max with 1TB of storage.

Caviar, the company best known for weird and wonderful iPhone mods, is now selling an iPhone 13 Pro Max that's bulletproof and doesn't have any cameras. And it costs almost $8,000 to boot.

Welcome to the Caviar Stealth 2.0 Black, a custom iPhone that comes in iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max configurations all the way up to 1TB capacity. These things are limited to just 99 units with special engraving on the edge of the device confirming as much. Pricing starts at $6,370 for a 128GB iPhone 13 Pro but goes much higher depending on the configuration you choose.

But none of that is really important. The most notable thing here is the fact the whole thing is now bulletproof thanks to the use of BR-2 class 2 bulletproof armor on its rear.

It gets weirder, too. Now the world's best iPhone with some of the best cameras doesn't actually have any cameras at all. Because Caviar removed them.

If that sounds like something you need in your life, have at it. Orders can be placed via the Caviar site right now.

For the iPhone 13 cycle, Apple has pushed the camera set on its Pro lineup to fun, new levels. Of the latest features, Macro mode will become an instant hit on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, two of the best iPhones on the market.

Here's a look at the new camera tool and how early criticism about it was finally resolved.

What is the Macro mode?

The Macro mode uses the iPhone 13 Pro's Ultra-Wide camera and autofocus system to focus at just 2 cm. As Apple explains, you can "capture a caterpillar's fuzz. Magnify a dewdrop. The beauty of tiny awaits."

Although the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini also have Ultra Wide cameras, they don't support Macro mode.

How Macro mode works

Using Macro mode on the iPhone 13 series is a simple process that happens automatically, like all things Apple. There are no extra taps necessary to get it to work. If you're on the regular 1x Wide Camera, bring your device closer to the subject, and it'll activate automatically. The autofocus used for Macro mode is done through the Ultra-Wide lens, but it still retains the crop of the 1x Wide lens. The Macro mode works for distances from 2 cm or 0.78-inches with photos and video. To take the best shots, be sure to have a lot of light.

Here's how Apple explains Macro mode:

Examples

Here are three examples from Apple showing Macro mode in action; we'll add some of our own later:

The details are incredible, no?

Not everyone was happy

Some of the early iPhone 13 Pro reviewers dinged Apple for some aspects of the autofocus system related to Macro mode. When an object or subject comes within 5.5-inches of the rear Camera, the system automatically shifts from the device's Wide lens to the Ultra-Wide lens. Apple says the automatic camera shifting on the iPhone 13 Pro series was designed to capture better close-up details for all three cameras.

However, not everyone is thrilled, including Input's Raymond Wong, who explains:

The automatic camera switching occurs for photo-taking and videos. In this example from Wong, you can see how disruptive the automatic changing of the frame can be:

Here's an example of the automatic switch appearing when taking video:

Help is on the way

Thanks to Wong's prodding, Apple has made it possible to have better Macro control when shooting at close distances for photography and video. It arrives via the iOS 15.2 update.

With iOS 15.2 installed on your supported iPhone:

1. Tap on the Settings app on your handheld.
2. Choose Camera.
3. Scroll down, toggle on Macro Control.

When you have this toggle enabled, you'll now see the Macro mode icon in the Camera app.

Nice start

Macro mode is off to a terrific start, and the new Macro control toggle is an excellent addition. It will be interesting to see how Apple further improves the tool over the coming months.

The iPhone 13 Pro is a gorgeous handset, and you'll want to protect your investment with a great case. But you'd also like to carry your other essentials right in your iPhone case. It's easy when you have a folio wallet case. Here are some of the best folio cases for your iPhone 13 Pro.

Which of the best folio cases for iPhone 13 Pro should you pick?

Choosing the best iPhone 13 Pro case for you can be challenging. Before you choose a folio case, think about what features mean the most to you. Do you want a case made of leather, faux leather, or fabric? Are you looking for MagSafe compatibility or RFID-blocking functionality? How many slots do you need? Do you want a case that folds into a kickstand?

The TUCCH Wallet Case for iPhone 13 Pro is a good bet for most people with its budget-friendly price point and wide color variety. It has the typical three-card slot and one big cash slot setup, plus you can use it as a kickstand to watch videos.

If it's in the budget, I'd check out the Nomad Modern Leather Folio. Like its sibling, the Nomad Rugged Folio, it's made from luxurious premium American Horween leather. It does have MagSafe compatibility so you won't have to remove the case for charging or using MagSafe accessories. It's the elegant wallet folio case your iPhone 13 Pro deserves.

While you're thinking about protection, don't forget to pick up a good screen protector for your iPhone 13 Pro. Many trips to the Genius Bar could have been prevented with a good case and screen protector.

For some people, the only good iPhone 13 Pro case is a heavy-duty case. Whether you want to take your iPhone 13 Pro on all of your outdoor adventures, or your worksite is hazardous (to your iPhone), or you tend to drop your iPhone more than you'd like, a rugged case is just what you need. Here are some of the best rugged cases for the iPhone 13 Pro you can buy.

Which of the best rugged cases for iPhone 13 Pro should you buy?

When choosing the best case for your iPhone 13 Pro, first, you'll want to decide if you'll use a MagSafe charger and accessories. If you think you will, I'd recommend getting a MagSafe compatible case. If not, you can usually save a few bucks by skipping that feature.

Our top overall pick is the Smartish Gripzilla iPhone 13 Pro Protective Case Compatible with MagSafe for its great price point and feature set. The best way to avoid damaging your iPhone is not to drop it in the first place, and this case has super-grippy edges to help keep that from happening. The design and multiple layers of this case will help prevent damage just in case you do drop it. Plus, you can choose a simple solid color or a fun pattern.

The OtterBox Defender Series has been around pretty much since the beginning of the iPhone. It's a staple, and OtterBox has a good deal of brand loyalty because of this case. If you're looking for something "lightweight but protective," look elsewhere on this list. This case is a tank, but if heavy-duty is what you need, this is IT.

If you're the kind of person who needs a rugged iPhone case, then you could probably use a rugged Apple Watch as well. The Apple Watch Ultra is the first Apple device that's made rugged for extreme situations. This will be the perfect accompaniment to your ruggedized iPhone 13 Pro. 

You've got a gorgeous iPhone 13 Pro, and you want to keep it looking that way. You know you need one of the best iPhone 13 Pro cases, but you don't want to bulk up your iPhone or obscure its sleek lines. What you need is a thin case for your iPhone 13 Pro, and we've rounded up some of the best you can buy.

Which of the best thin cases for iPhone 13 Pro should you buy?

Apple's iPhone Case with MagSafe, either the clear, silicone, or leather, is always worth checking out. It strikes a great balance between thinness and protection. This case always comes in some great colors to set off the colors of the latest iPhone lineup. New colors are often released seasonally, which means some are rotated out. So, if you see a color you like, don't wait too long to buy it.

The absolute thinnest cases are going to be the PEEL and the totallee iPhone cases. Actually, they are quite similar in being the absolute minimalist cases you can buy. Don't expect much in the way of drop protection, but they will certainly keep scuffs and scratches from marring your iPhone 13 Pro's perfection. Each of these brands offers a handful of color options.

If you want some pretty serious protection but don't want to add too much bulk to your iPhone, check out the Survivor - Endurance MagSafe Case for iPhone 13 Pro. The case edges are definitely on the thicker side, but that is the most vulnerable part of your iPhone. The case's back is super thin but still manages to squeeze in the MagSafe compatibility. It comes in three different colorways.

This Black Friday is expected to have tons of great deals on Apple products, and if you've managed to snag an iPhone 13 Pro this year, you're going to want a case to protect it. Now cases may not be the most expensive accessories to buy in the first place, but plenty of case manufacturers will discount their cases for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, meaning you can save money on the best iPhone 13 Pro cases.

While we're a little bit ahead of the curve when looking for Black Friday deals, it's never too early to try and save money on a purchase. Plus, protecting your new iPhone is always in vogue. So whether you're looking for a heavy-duty case, a clear case, or anything in between, here are the best iPhone 13 pro case deals we've found this year.

What you need to know

• Oscar nominees Jason Reitman and Ivan Reitman used iPhone 13 Pro handsets to create Apple's new holiday ad.
• A new video shows how the pair went about creating the ad using iPhones.

Apple's recent Saving Simon ad was the brainchild of Oscar nominees Jason Reitman and Ivan Reitman and now a new video shows us how the pair went about creating it.

The new video runs for almost three minutes and shows how the pair used iPhone 13 Pro handsets to create a stunning ad that certainly knows how to tug at the heartstrings. And the fact it was created using the same iPhone 13 Pro that's in many pockets makes it even more impressive.

Watch and learn, folks!

If there was ever going to be a video that makes people want to bag a bargain iPhone 13 this Black Friday, this is a great example of what that might look like.

The new iPhones have the best cameras ever put into an Apple smartphone and the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro benefit from features like Cinema mode, allowing for a depth-of-field trick that makes videos look like they were created using much more specialist cameras. Rack focus is something most of us had never heard of until the iPhone 13 event — now we're using it on the daily!

If you've yet to see the actual ad, you can fix that right now.

What you need to know

• Apple has shared a new holiday ad, shot on iPhone 13 Pro.
• The short video was directed by Oscar Nominee Jason Reitman and his father, Oscar Nominee Ivan Reitman.

Apple has today shared its annual holiday ad, with Saving Simon shot using an iPhone 13 Pro with the help of two Oscar nominees.

The video, which runs for three minutes, was directed by Oscar Nominee Jason Reitman and his father, Oscar Nominee Ivan Reitman.

Check it out!

The ad shows a boy kicking over some snowmen in front of his house, but before he can get to the last one his sister saves it — and keeps it in a freezer to ensure its safety. I'll let you watch the ad yourself to get the full feel — because there are definitely feels to be had!

The fact that the ad was shot on an iPhone 13 Pro, probably the best iPhone Apple has ever made in terms of video capabilities, shouldn't be a surprise. Apple shares similar videos all year round and this one just so happens to have a holiday angle to it. It's a great ad of course, and you'd expect nothing less. It's amazing what an iPhone can do — especially when you give it to two Oscar nominees and some professional actors.

Looking to grab an iPhone 13 Pro of your own? This Black Friday is as good a time as any to bag yourself an Apple bargain.

What you need to know

• Apple has released a behind-the-scenes look at its latest Shot on iPhone campaign video.
• "A Dozen Eggs" was directed by Michel Gondry.
• The new video shows how the crew used the iPhone 13 Pro to bring the film to life.

Apple has debuted a behind-the-scenes look at its latest Shot on iPhone campaign video.

Last week, the company released "A Dozen Eggs," a short film that was shot on iPhone 13 Pro and directed by Michel Gondry. You can watch the humorous and inventive short film below:

The company has also released a behind-the-scenes look for "A Dozen Eggs" that shows exactly how the team was able to create the film. You can watch "Behind the Eggs with Michel Gondry" below:

Gondry is a French director most known for directing the mind-bending "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," a drama film starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet. It continues to show that, with the right person behind the camera, you can truly create incredible content with Apple's latest iPhones.

What you need to know

• Apple has released its latest "Shot on iPhone" campaign video.
• "A Dozen Eggs" was directed by "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" director Michel Gondry.
• It was, of course, completely shot on the iPhone 13 Pro.

Apple has released its latest video in its long-standing "Shot on iPhone" campaign.

The new video, titled "A Dozen Eggs," was shot by Michel Gondry. You can watch the imaginative short film below:

Gondry is a French director most known for directing the mind-bending "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," a drama film starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet.

"A Dozen Eggs" is yet another piece of work that shows off the power of the cameras that are built into the new iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max that Apple released back in September. This year, each camera received notable upgrades in quality, zoom, and low-light performance.

Apple also announced that the new iPhone 13 Pro cameras could shoot in ProRes, an industry-standard video codec that enables even more detail in each frame and a smooth process between shooting with your iPhone and editing on your iPad or Mac.

What you need to know

• Apple has again adjusted the macro mode on iPhone 13 Pro.
• iOS 15.2 includes an in-app toggle for macro.
• It previously added a setting to disable the auto macro feature.

Apple has added a new in-app toggle for the macro mode on the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max in the latest version of iOS 15.

As noted by Aaron Zollo over at Zollotech, in his latest video Zollo explains that iOS 15.2 beta 2 now includes a very small flower icon in the camera app that will appear whenever you go close up to a subject to take a macro photo. Tapping the icon simply toggle's macro on and off, as shown below:

Apple first rolled out macro mode without any toggles and had to add a switch in the settings to disable the auto macro feature in iOS 15.1. Apple debuted macro in its new best iPhone earlier this year, from Apple:

The stunning new upgrades on the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max make them the best ever iPhones for photography, and also feature a 120Hz display with ProMotion for super-smooth scrolling and animation.

What you need to know

• Apple has released a new "Experiments" video on the iPhone 13 Pro.
• The new video, titled "Movie Magic," uses the iPhone 13 Pro and practical effects to tell a space story.
• The entire iPhone 13 lineup is available now.

Apple's Experiments team is back at it with their latest videography tests using the iPhone 13 Pro.

Today, Apple posted a new video to its YouTube channel that showcases the power of the new camera system on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. The video, titled "Experiments VI: Movie Magic," shows how the team was able to use the new iPhone and practical effects to create a number of scenes in space.

You can watch the shots and how they created them in the video below:

If you want to see even more of the experiments ran on the iPhone camera, the company has an entire playlist dedicated to the videos.

Apple released the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max back in September. The new iPhones feature upgraded processors, camera systems, battery life, and displays.

Apple is set to bring a new camera feature to two of the best iPhones on the market, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max models. ProRes video is a professional codec that's used in many professional camera systems for filmmaking. Support for the new video format is a major upgrade for anyone who wants to use their iPhone for more professional video purposes. Here's a first look at the feature, which is set to launch with iOS 15.1, which is current available through developer and public betas.

Apple occasionally offers updates to iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS as closed developer previews or public betas. While the betas contain new features, they also contain pre-release bugs that can prevent the normal use of your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, or Mac, and are not intended for everyday use on a primary device. That's why we strongly recommend staying away from developer previews unless you need them for software development, and using the public betas with caution. If you depend on your devices, wait for the final release.

What is ProRes video?

With ProRes, you can produce broadcast-ready content on your iPhone using high color fidelity and low compression. Best of all, you can record, edit, and deliver the content without any other device. You can also bring ProRes videos from your iPhone into Final Cut Pro on your Mac. Apple ProRes includes various formats.

Which phones support ProRes video?

Recorded ProRes content takes up a lot of space on the iPhone, as you'll see below. Because of this, once released, ProRes will have limited use on the 128GB versions of the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

The least expensive Pro model will only be allowed to record ProRes at 1080p at 30fps. The iPhone 13 Pro series 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB models will allow ProRes video recording up to 4K at 30 fps.

Storage requirements

According to language in the iOS 15.1 beta, a minute of 10-bit HDR ProRes video consumes around 1.7GB for HD and 6GB for 4K. No doubt, this is something to consider before starting to shoot in ProRes.

Turning ProRes video on/off

In the current iOS 15.1 beta, ProRes is off by default. To activate the feature:

1. Tap the Settings app on your support iPhone 13 Pro.
2. Choose Camera.
3. Select Formats.

4. Toggle on ProRes to activate the feature.

To turn ProRes off:

1. Tap the Settings app on your support iPhone 13 Pro.
2. Choose Camera.
3. Select Formats.

4. Toggle off ProRes to activate the feature.

Using ProRes video

To use ProRes video on your compatible iPhone with iOS 15.1 or later:

1. Choose the Camera app on your iPhone Home screen.
2. Select Video.

3. Tap the ProRes button.
4. Begin recording, stop when finished.

ProRes video on iPhone shows a lot of promise, and it will be interesting to see the type of videos iPhone 13 Pro series users will record once the feature arrives. Look for the official iOS 15.1 launch before the end of 2021.

Speck is a well-known brand when it comes to iPhone accessories. I'm pretty sure many of us used a CandyShell case way back in the day. It was one of my absolute favorite cases back then, and I pretty much got a CandyShell case for every iPhone since the iPhone 4 — the color combinations were what I loved the most. However, one of the flaws of the CandyShell line was that since it was always glossy, it ended up getting scratched up after a few months.

Eventually, Speck replaced the CandyShell line with the new Presidio series, which solved the problem of scratches by being more matte, and there are even clear options. While Speck did bring back the CandyShell cases, the Presidio has been the new bread-and-butter offering from Speck these days.

Recently, Speck has also added MagSafe compatibility to the Presidio lineup, including the Presidio2 Grip. I've been a big fan of the Presidio Grip since the iPhone XS, despite some flaws, and it's one of my favorite cases. I've been eagerly waiting for Speck to add MagSafe to this one, though I was curious how they would handle it since it had rubberized grips on the back. Thankfully, Speck solved the issue by inverting the grips inward to not interfere with MagSafe. Here's how the Presidio Grip 2 with MagSafe for the iPhone 13 Pro (arguably the best iPhone) stacks up.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe: Price and availability

Most big-box retailers stock Speck products, such as Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon, and more. However, since this is still relatively new for the iPhone 13 lineup, it isn't showing up quite yet on Amazon, but you can find it online at Best Buy and direct from Speck. While Speck has it listed at $55, you can get it for $10 cheaper at $45 at Best Buy.

The Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe is available in three colors: Coastal Blue/Black/Storm Blue, Graphite Grey/Black/Bold Red, and Black/White. Best Buy only carries the black and blue options, while the gray is only on Speck's website. Knowing Speck, more colors will probably come in the future.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe: Improved grips and MagSafe

When it comes to protecting my iPhone, I prefer slimmer cases that are still tough and durable with protection while also making it easier to hold my device. The Speck Presidio2 Grip is a case that has always done just that, but now it's even better.

The Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe features a soft-touch, matte finish that feels excellent to the touch. It also has Speck's Microban®, which helps to reduce 99% of bacteria growth on the case, creating a cleaner surface. You can find Microban® on most of Speck's lineup, though I can't verify just how effective this material is. However, I also disinfect my phone every night with a UV sanitizer like the PhoneSoap Pro.

One of the past issues with the Presidio Grip cases was that the rubberized grips stuck out, which resulted in getting dirty, gross, and worn out (even peeling) over time. This has been resolved with the Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe because the grips are now inverted on the back, so you have indentations and grooves instead of rubber bits. However, the grips on the sides remain raised, which helps with the overall grip on the phone. In addition, contrasting little rubber pieces in all four corners help absorb shock upon impact.

Another reason for the inverted grips on the back is because this case is now fully compatible with MagSafe. With the old design of the Presidio Grip, the rubberized grips that protruded from the back would interfere with magnetic accessories. Since they've been inverted, going inwards like grooves instead of outward, the back is flatter, making it easy for accessories and chargers to precisely align and attach themselves to the MagSafe ring. I was always wondering how Speck would make the Presidio Grip compatible with MagSafe, and I'm glad to see them do it seamlessly.

Buttons are something else I'm quite nitpicky about with iPhone cases. Quite a few cases make it harder to get proper tactility when pushing the volume or side buttons. Thankfully, the Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe buttons is clicky and tactile, making it feel like a natural extension of the phone itself. I've no issue pushing the buttons when I need to, and it feels great. In addition, there are precision cutouts for the mute switch, charging port, and speakers. The camera cutout is also accurate, but since the iPhone 13 Pro has such a large camera bump, the Presidio2 Grip also has to have a bit of a bump itself to accommodate it.

The front of the case features a slightly raised bezel to keep your screen safe from debris if placed face-down on a flat surface. I also have an iPhone 13 Pro screen protector on, and the case does not interfere with its edges.

I've been using the Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe ever since I got my iPhone 13 Pro, and it's held up well so far. I love how it adds more grip to my phone, making it easier and more comfortable to hold and use, and it's now fully compatible with my existing MagSafe accessories. And though I've dropped my phone once with this case on (a few feet from my bed to the hardwood floor), it still looks brand new.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe: More color, please

There isn't much that I dislike about the Speck Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe, except that the color selection is pretty limiting so far. After all, there are only three colors: blue, gray, and black. I was hoping for more colors like the regular Presidio2 Grip without MagSafe, but alas, that isn't the case yet. Hopefully, Speck will expand the color selection for the MagSafe version sooner rather than later.

I also noticed that the back of my gray Speck Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe has a somewhat noticeable spot because I always have my PopSocket PopGrip with MagSafe attached to it. However, I have noticed that some MagSafe accessories tend to leave marks or discoloration after a while, so I'm not sure who's to blame on that front, but just a heads up if you constantly use MagSafe accessories — the back of the Presidio2 Grip may show signs of that.

Last but not least, the Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe is not a cheaper case option. However, I have been using the Grip cases for several years, and they're one of my favorites, so I believe that it's well worth the cost, especially now that it works with all of the best MagSafe accessories.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe: Competition

If you prefer your cases to be grippy, then a good alternative is the Incipio Grip for MagSafe for the iPhone 13 series. I reviewed the iPhone 12 Pro version, but the case is also available for the iPhone 13 four-device series. The back is hard plastic with a matte finish, and there are multidirectional grip enhancers along the bumper edges. They add great grip while you hold your device, and it also has MagSafe compatibility. It's around the same price as Speck, which is $50.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Compatible with MagSafe: Should you buy it?

• You like grippy phone cases
• You want protection with a slim profile
• You need MagSafe compatibility

• You don't need MagSafe
• You're on a budget
• You want more color in your life

For those who prefer to have a little more grip on their iPhones, the Speck Presidio2 Grip is a great case. It's slim, protective, and the grips on the sides and back make it even more comfortable to hold and use your new iPhone 13. Plus, this new version is fully compatible with MagSafe, so you can use the MagSafe charger or Battery Pack (or other alternatives), wallets, grips, or stands with no issue at all.

But if you don't use MagSafe accessories, you could probably get by with the regular Presidio2 Grip without MagSafe. The one without MagSafe also comes in more hues if you prefer something more bright and colorful. Of course, if you don't need additional grip with your iPhone, then there are other good cases to consider, even with a lower price tag.

What you need to know

• The third developer beta of iOS 15.1 adds the ability to manually control Macro mode.
• The mode currently automatically kicks in when you get close to a subject with the Ultra-Wide lens.
• iPhone users can now turn this mode on manually for more control with the camera.

When Apple released the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, one of the big camera updates was bringing macro photography to the UItra Wide lens.

Once iPhone Pro owners got their devices in hand, however, they realized that this mode automatically turned on when you got near a subject without the ability to turn it off. It was a frustration for those professional users who want or need more manual control of the camera.

Thankfully, an update appears to be on the way to give this kind of control to iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro max owners. As spotted by 9to5Mac, the latest developer beta of iOS 15.1 includes the ability to turn of Auto Macro in the Settings app.

It's currently unclear when iOS 15.1 will release to the public. However, it also includes support for ProRes video, another major feature for iPhone 13 Pro users so, hopefully, the update will release soon.

What you need to know

• The latest developer beta of iOS 15.1 adds support for ProRes video.
• The video codec is limited to the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

The third developer beta of iOS 15.1 has enabled a major feature for the iPhone 13 Pro models.

As spotted by 9to5Mac, the latest developer beta for iOS 15.1 adds support for ProRes video recording in Apple's Camera app. The feature is limited to the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

ProRes is a professional video codec that is used in many professional camera systems for filmmaking. Support for the new video format is a major upgrade for the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max for those who wish to use their iPhone for more professional video purposes.

The one thing that users will have to be mindful of is the amount of storage this file format takes up. It is so data-hungry that Apple only allows iPhone 13 Pro owners with 128GB to record in 1080p rather than 4K.

It's currently unclear if the feature will definitely come to the public when iOS 15.1 officially rolls out to all users. Apple is known to include features in one version of a beta and then remove it in another. However, ProRes is a major feature for the iPhone 13 Pro lineup, so Apple is sure to want to get it into users' hands as quickly as possible.

Another year, another iPhone. Apple has launched the iPhone 13 series, which includes the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, as well as the iPhone 13 mini. Of course, there are major improvements to the cameras with every iPhone upgrade, too, especially this year with the iPhone 13 Pro models.

While serious photographers rely on the best digital cameras, not everyone has a standalone camera. In fact, as the saying goes, the best camera is the one with you, and for a lot of us, that's going to be our iPhone. It's best for those spontaneous moments that you want to capture, which could be gone by the time you get your bulky camera gear set up, but iPhone cameras have evolved to the point where they are perfectly capable of more serious photo sessions too.

The iPhone 13 Pro lineup comes equipped with the greatest iPhone camera system there is, and this year, both the regular Pro and Pro Max are once again equal. This is great news for those who didn't like being penalized for a smaller device but still wanted amazing cameras.

One of the main reasons I went for the 1TB iPhone 13 Pro is because I plan to take a lot of photos with it, as it's pretty much all I use for pictures. And since I have a baby on the way, I want the best of the best. I've been playing with the camera on my iPhone 13 Pro since I got it on launch day, and so far, I believe that it's worth the upgrade from the iPhone 12 Pro, but it's even more worth it if you have an older iPhone.

Low light? No problem!

While the entire iPhone 13 lineup got bigger sensors for better low-light photography, it's much more apparent on the iPhone 13 Pro. On the Pro models, we have a larger sensor with 1.9 µm pixels, which results in less noise and faster shutter speeds, and a ƒ/1.5 aperture with the Wide camera. I decided to put my iPhone 13 Pro to the test against my iPhone 12 Pro at night by going to Disney California Adventure park. My first impression? Color me impressed.

As I roamed the park at night, looking for the popular spots for spooky Halloween-themed pictures, I immediately noticed the difference between the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro. With the 13 Pro, I was much less dependent on Night mode but still ended up with sharp photos that looked true to what you actually see, rather than being blown out. With my iPhone 12 Pro, many of the shots ended up requiring Night mode, which made the shots look more artificial and not the same as what you see in reality. And if the iPhone 13 Pro needed Night mode, it required much less time — I noticed a max of about one second versus about three with the 12 Pro. That's because the faster shutter speeds really do make a difference.

Also, all three lenses (Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto) are now equipped to handle low light environments. As I've mentioned, the Wide has a larger aperture and sensor, and it uses the LiDAR Scanner for Night mode. Ultra wide also has a wider aperture, faster sensor, and autofocus. The 77mm Telephoto lens now has Night mode as well.

I tend to take a lot of photos at night, especially while I'm at Disneyland, so I am glad to see how well the iPhone 13 Pro handles low-light situations.

Getting up close and personal with macros

One new camera feature exclusive to the Pro models is Macro mode. That's right — you can now shoot macro photographs on your iPhone without the need for an external camera lens accessory.

With the iPhone 13 Pro, the Macro mode happens automatically. When you're on the standard 1x Wide camera, just bring your device closer to the subject, and it activates automatically. Macro mode utilizes the ultra wide camera lens to autofocus, but it retains the same crop ratio of the 1x Wide lens. You can get up to 2-centimeters or 0.78-inches, and it works with both photos and video.

I usually don't take a lot of macro photographs because, before the iPhone 13 Pro, I needed a lens accessory to accomplish this (I don't have a standalone camera). But now that it's built-in to the iPhone 13 Pro, it's something that I can see myself experimenting with a lot.

So far, I've tested out the macro feature with various things around the house, including some flowers and plants, naturally. Even though the automatic switching to Macro mode transition is a bit disorienting, I am fairly impressed with some of the macro shots that I've taken so far. I can get really up close with some objects, and it just focuses automatically, letting me see all of the details that I wouldn't have seen before. Even with a bit of camera shake, it seems that the built-in sensor-shift optical image stabilization helps out a lot, resulting in clear and crisp images. It's not 100% perfect, of course, but it's impressive considering that you don't need any additional equipment.

The only thing I don't like about the Macro mode, aside from the disorienting switch transition, is that it doesn't work too well in low light. Since you need to have your phone super close to the subject that you want to photograph in low-light environments, this can end up in you blocking out some light, and the result is less-than-stellar close-up shots. Macro mode works best in bright or medium lighting, so don't count on it to be great when you're in a dimly lit setting. And since there is no way to turn off the automatic Macro mode just yet, this may interfere if you're just trying to take a regular photo and are a little close to the subject.

Apple has said that it plans to add a setting that lets you disable automatic camera switching for macros in a future iOS 15 update, so look forward to that.

Despite not being perfect, the new Macro mode brings another layer of possibilities for what you can shoot with your iPhone 13 Pro.

Photographic Styles make the camera yours

This isn't a feature specific to the iPhone 13 Pro, but rather just the entire iPhone 13 lineup thanks to iOS 15. With Photographic Styles, it's almost like a photo filter, but you have control over each style's overall tone and warmth, and changes you make are saved as your own custom preset. These Photographic Styles are part of the image capture process and how the image resolves itself, so you cannot apply a style after the fact. While you can still apply filters and such in the post-editing process, Photographic Styles aren't the same as filters, as they do things like preserve skin tone while enhancing colors in other areas of the photo.

In addition to the Standard photo style that we've been using by default all these years, there are four new ones: Rich Contrast, Vibrant, Warm, and Cool. These styles are very subtle by default, but you can easily customize the amount of tone and warmth to your liking and then save them to use by default in the future.

Rich Contrast adds a subtle but more dramatic look with darker shadows, increasing color and contrast. Vibrant brightens colors so that they're more vivid without being overdone. Warm adds a golden undertone to the overall image, and Cool adds slightly more blue undertones. However, by default, all of the styles are fairly low-key and muted, so they won't ruin the photo. And while the styles affect the overall image, it does preserve things like people's skin tones so that they aren't ruined like with a filter.

Truth be told, I haven't really incorporated the Photographic Styles into my photographic workflow quite yet, and I've left it on Standard for now. Because the styles are what I consider to be destructive (you can't remove them after a shot, nor can you apply it after), I'm just a bit more comfortable leaving it off for most pictures and just editing them later. However, if I am going out for a specific kind of photoshoot, I'll use Photographic Styles, specifically either Rich Contrast or Vibrant, depending on the situation.

Still, Photographic Styles are a nice addition for the iPhone photographer who is using an iPhone 13, though it's definitely more subtle than I originally thought.

Zoom in with Telephoto and create Cinematic memories

Since I had an iPhone 12 Pro before, I was quite used to only having 2x optical zoom. However, with the iPhone 13 Pro, I now have 3x optical zoom, and while I don't always use zoom a lot, it's been very nice to have for those moments when I actually do want to zoom in on the action without losing detail from digital zoom. However, I must admit that I was a bit surprised that Apple revealed that the Macro mode uses the Ultra Wide lens for autofocus — I would have imagined that it would use the Telephoto for getting up close, but that isn't the case.

Cinematic mode is another one of those features that is also available on all iPhone 13 models, not just the Pro. Think of it as Portrait mode for video, but once a second person (or object) enters the frame, the focus point automatically shifts to them. But what's even more impressive is that you can change the focal point of a scene in the post-editing process. I only briefly tested out Cinematic mode with my dog, but it's quite impressive. It's a feature that I am excited to use much more once my baby arrives in a few weeks, but until then, it's something that is on the back-burner for me.

The only issue with Cinematic mode right now is that Apple has limited it to 1080p at 30fps. This definitely won't be better than a high-end video rig for a filmmaker, but it's fairly good for those who just use their iPhone to shoot video. I'm sure that this will change in the future, possibly with the iPhone 14.

Is the iPhone your primary camera?

Yes, I'm well aware that while the iPhone 13 Pro has the best iPhone cameras, you can always do better with a standalone camera. However, I don't consider myself a professional photographer, and I personally just like to go out and take photos in the moment, whenever I feel like it. I also find it easier not to have to lug around a bunch of camera gear, which is why I always depend on my iPhone for photography, and therefore always upgrade for the cameras alone.

Considering what we have now with the iPhone 13 Pro cameras that have evolved ever since the original iPhone, we've definitely come a long way. I'm looking forward to capturing all of my little one's moments in the very near future with my iPhone 13 Pro, which is not only my best iPhone but my favorite digital camera.

Apple's Pro line and Samsung's Plus models have always been in the same class, but each new generation attempts to outclass the other. Samsung's release of the Galaxy S21 in 2021 certainly seemed to outmatch the latest iPhone at the time, the iPhone 12 Pro. Now, Apple looks to be pulling ahead again with the release of the iPhone 13 Pro, which now features a higher refresh rate, faster processor, and larger storage capacity. Does that make it better, though? Check out the facts and decide for yourself.

iPhone 13 Pro vs. Galaxy S21+: Price

As is usually the case, the iPhone 13 Pro and the Galaxy S21+ are going at the same base price of $1,000. If you add storage capacity, the price will go up of course. Since the S21+ only offers a maximum of 256GB of storage in comparison to a full 1TB on the 13 Pro, the most expensive model of the Galaxy S21+ is only $1,050, but the top-tier iPhone 13 Pro is a whopping $1,499. If you're OK with the baseline model, however, these two handsets go for the exact same price.

However, it's worth noting that because the Galaxy S21+ is a bit older, you'll more likely find it on sale than the iPhone 13 Pro.

iPhone 13 Pro vs. Galaxy S21+: Key differences

Some key differences to note between these two handsets are screen size, storage capacities, camera features, and basic build. Check it out:

You can see that the Galaxy 21+ looks to be the bigger smartphone when it comes to physical size, screen size, battery, and RAM. On the other hand, the iPhone 13 Pro has some better features that can't be ignored, like higher storage offerings, a ceramic shield screen, and MagSafe. It's hard to say which features are more important just on their face, so let's dig deeper.

iPhone 13 Pro vs. Galaxy S21+ design: Strength versus size

If you're talking about physical appearance, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Some may prefer the shiny, flat stainless steel edges that border the iPhone 13 Pro, while others may like the streamlined bezeled look of the Galaxy 21+. Both have attractive metallic details that peek through the glass build, and both have a good selection of standard or bright colors to choose from. The Galaxy S21+ may have an advantage here since it comes in fun pink and purple colorways, although that Sierra Blue iPhone is quite pretty too.

Speaking of the build, we can't leave out how the iPhone 13 Pro's ceramic shield is the toughest smartphone screen there is when it comes to cracks and breakage. That being said, Samsung's Gorilla Glass Victus is more resistant to scratches than the ceramic shield, which is also an advantage. For pure durability, however, ceramic shield wins.

When it comes to screens, the Galaxy S21+'s is clearly bigger at 6.7 inches, although it doesn't actually have a higher resolution. The S21+'s screen looks even better though since it doesn't have a black notch to take away from its sleek design. The black notch is always a slight annoyance with the iPhone, but the FaceID makes it all worthwhile.

iPhone 13 Pro vs. Galaxy S21+ camera: Smarts versus zoom

The iPhone 13 Pro's camera shows clear progress over previous models with even more smart features to choose from. This model now offers 3X optical zoom, as opposed to 2X in the iPhone 12 Pro. It also has improved night mode and a new feature called photographic styles that allows you to save your favorite presets to take better photos according to your own preferences. For video, the 13 Pro also offers a new cinematic mode that changes the focus automatically according to changing subjects in the frame.

While the Samsung Galaxy S21+ doesn't have the same level of computational photography and videography as the iPhone 13 Pro, it does have an excellent camera system of its own. The triple lens captures vibrant colors, adequate night mode shots, and incredible 64MP resolution. That high resolution is what makes it possible for the Galaxy to offer 3X hybrid optical zoom and 30X digital zoom. Although the digital zoom will result in a loss of quality, it's definitely better than the iPhone's 10X digital zoom.

It bears mentioning that the Galaxy S21+ offers 8K video, although the resulting file sizes will be cumbersome, to say the least. This camera also offers some stabilization, lighting, and editing features. The iPhone 13 Pro, on the other hand, shoots 4K video with somewhat better lighting and editing features. When you pair that with the new cinematic mode, the iPhone probably wins on videography.

iPhone 13 Pro vs. Galaxy S21+ performance: Processor versus battery

Apple's 2021 iOS processor, the A15 Bionic, is an innovation marvel, and scores faster and more efficient overall than the Snapdragon 888 used by Samsung. When it comes to basic processing speed, the iPhone 13 Pro pulls ahead of the Galaxy S21+, but that's not the whole story. Since the Galaxy has more RAM, they're still even. It's unlikely that you would notice any difference between the two when performing day-to-day processes.

In previous models, the Galaxy always pulled ahead when it came to refresh rate, but this is no longer the case. The iPhone 13 Pro now features the same 120Hz refresh rate, but that comes with a price. Now, the 13 Pro has a higher refresh rate to weigh down its smaller battery, so the Galaxy has a longer battery life. For basic tasks like navigating the web, the Galaxy S21+ offers almost 14 hours of continuous use, as compared to roughly 11.5 for the iPhone 13 Pro.

It's important to mention ease-of-use and convenience for these two smartphones. The Galaxy offers reverse charging, which means you can use its extra-large battery to charge other Qi-enabled products, like earbuds or a smartwatch. Although the iPhone doesn't have this very cool feature, it does have FaceID and MagSafe, both of which offer new levels of convenience. I have found MagSafe, including MagSafe accessories, to be incredibly useful for handsfree driving and wireless charging. The features you prefer will depend on your own lifestyle and habits.

iPhone 13 vs. Galaxy S21+: Which should you buy?

We can't tell you which smartphone is right for you, but the iPhone 13 Pro is the better smartphone overall for both convenience and smart features. There are plenty of reasons why you might prefer the Galaxy S21+ instead, however. If you need exceptional zoom and a longer battery life, for example, the Galaxy has better offerings in both categories. Samsung's smartphone also has more RAM, 8K video, and reverse charging, all of which are attractive benefits.

We prefer the iPhone due to the beautiful computational photography and the MagSafe system. For photographers and videographers, the iPhone 13 Pro lends better results in general. And the MagSafe system makes so many tasks easier, such as mounting the handset on your car dashboard for navigation and hands-free usage. At the end of the day, though, you have to decide which handset works better for you and your lifestyle.

What you need to know

• Apple's iPhone 13 Pro is now available worldwide.
• A new video has revealed the impact of the new 120Hz ProMotion display.
• Compared to its predecessor, you can see a big change in the smoothness of animations.

An amazing new video online has revealed just how big a difference the 120Hz ProMotion display makes in the new iPhone 13 Pro compared to Apple's iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Apple's new best iPhone comes with a Super Retina XDR display and 120Hz ProMotion in its Pro phones. It enables a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz, delivering buttery-smooth animations whilst preserving battery life. A new video posted to Twitter gives us new slow-motion insight into just how much better the new display is:

As you can see, the 120Hz display of the iPhone 13 is literally twice as smooth when you unlock the iPhone, with icons appearing on the Home Screen in a much smoother and less juddery fashion. No doubt, the iPhone 12 and its forebears were not slow or clunky, but it shows the 120Hz display is doing exactly what it was supposed to do, and insight like this might help people when choosing between the iPhone 13 vs iPhone 13 Pro.

The new display is good news not just for customers but developers too, who can now take advantage of faster refresh rates to add smoother animations to their apps. Apple has today issued official guidance to developers as to how they can include support for 120Hz refresh rates and variable refreshing.

What you need to know

• Apple has cleared up some confusion about 120Hz on iPhone 13 Pro.
• The company says developers can take advantage of the feature but they have to opt their app in.
• The company says this is to maintain optimum battery life.

Apple has confirmed that developers can in fact use 120Hz on the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max, but that they have to opt their apps in to using the feature.

On Friday, some developers noticed that not all apps were taking advantage of the iPhone 13 Pro's 120Hz refresh rate. The feature would work for scrolling or full-screen transitions, but that all other animations in third-party apps were capped at 60Hz.

There was a pretty tricky workaround, but Apple has now confirmed that apps can in fact take advantage of this feature by adding a new plist entry to their app, declaring it uses the higher frame rate.

Apple has issued new documentation explaining ProMotion refresh rates for the iPhone 13 Pro to developers which states:

The new 120Hz display in the iPhone 13 Pro is one of the biggest new features in Apple's best iPhone this year, offering smoother scrolling, viewing, and usage. It also has a variable refresh rate for battery preservation and a new Super Retina XDR display which is much brighter than the old one.

Apple has also reportedly confirmed that there is a bug affecting some animations using Core Animation and that a fix in iOS 15 is on the way.

What you need to know

• The iPhone 13 Pro does not line up perfectly with the MagSafe Duo Charger.
• The camera module is so big that the phone can not lie flat on the charger.
• It does not, however, stop the iPhone from charging.

While it's certainly not a perfect fit, the iPhone 13 Pro does work with Apple's MagSafe Duo Charger.

Earlier today, multiple reports pointed out that those with the new iPhone 13 Pro might have a problem charging it with Apple's own MagSafe Duo Charger. It appears that the camera module has gotten so big that the phone can't lie flat on the charger.

In a video posted to Twitter by MKBHD, he shows off the issue. When using just the iPhone 13 Pro, you can see that the camera module catches the edge of the MagSafe Duo Charger. While the issue gets worse when the iPhone 13 Pro is in a case, it still does appear to charge just fine with the MagSafe connection.

While it is good to know that charging is not impeded, it does suggest that Apple could release a new version of the MagSafe Duo Charger to work more seamlessly with its new iPhone. While it works functionally, it's tough to think that the company would be okay with a design imperfection such as this.

Thankfully, it appears that the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 Pro Max do not have this problem. The camera module in the iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13 is not large enough to be a problem and the iPhone 13 Pro Max is such a massive phone that, despite having the same camera system, is so huge that the camera module does not get in the way.

The entire iPhone 13 lineup will officially launch on Friday, September 24 alongside the 6th generation iPad mini and 9th generation iPad.

What you need to know

• Travel photographer Austin Mann took an iPhone 13 Pro Max to Tanzania and captured some stunning photos.
• Mann takes the latest iPhone to somewhere exotic to test its cameras every year.

Every year Apple gives travel photographer Austin Mann a new iPhone to see what he can do with it and, invariably, he does something special. This year's iPhone 13 launch is no different, with Mann taking an iPhone 13 Pro to Tanzania.

The full, epic iPhone 13 Pro camera review is well worth checking out for a couple of reasons. Not only does it have a ton of photos that I won't be posting here, but it also has more information on how the shots were captured. There's even a short video, with Mann saying that was captured with a stock iPhone 13 Pro and a "simple handheld stabilizer."

All of the shots are stunning, with this Leopard captured using the iPhone 13 Pro's telephoto lens in ProRAW format. The photo was then edited in Lightroom CC right on the same iPhone.

Apple is making a big deal about the new iPhone cameras and while few of us can hope to capture the same kinds of images shown off by Mann, it's always good to know that the same iPhone in our pockets is capable of such shots. It's much the same as people who drive supercars around — they never max them out, but they like to know that they could.

The new iPhone 13 Pro is undoubtedly the best iPhone for macrophotography, something shown off by this image among others.

Again, be sure to check out the iPhone 13 Pro camera review for even more amazing photos of wildlife and such — it's worth your time, even if you don't read any of the words!

What you need to know

• Someone has already posted an unboxing of the iPhone 13.
• The video specifically does a quick unboxing of the iPhone 13 Pro Max in Gold.
• The iPhone 13 lineup will release on Friday, September 24.

Despite it not being officially released until Friday, someone got their hands on a new iPhone 13 and has posted an unboxing video to YouTube.

The video, which specifically unboxes the iPhone 13 Pro Max in Gold, shows off the new, plastic-free packaging, the documentation, the famous Apple stickers, and the iPhone 13 Pro Max itself. The video does not, however, show iOS 15 running on the latest iPhone.

The iPhone 13 Pro, which Apple revealed at its "California Streaming" event last week, features a 120Hz display, new camera system, ProRes video, and comes in a 1TB storage configuration for the first time.

While this might be the first unboxing video we are seeing, it certainly won't be the last. Most of the top technology YouTubers get their hands on the new iPhone before its release and publish an unboxing video up to a few days before it goes on sale. By that logic, we may see our first unboxing videos from a ton of your favorite creators either tomorrow or Wednesday.

The iPhone 13, along with the 6th generation iPad mini and 9th generation iPad, will officially release online and in stores on Friday, September 24.

While the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro are the latest generations of iPhone, it's clear that the real winner is the iPhone 13 Pro. Both the iPhone 13 and 13 Pro have the same A15 chip, as well as Sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS) that debuted exclusively with the previous generation iPhone 12 Pro Max, and they all start at 128GB of storage, but that's where the similarities mostly end. If you want the best iPhone for photography and video, the iPhone 13 Pro is the way to go. But if you don't need that, then the iPhone 13 is still a safe choice.

Do keep in mind that as of this writing, the iPhone 14 is due to be unveiled in a few weeks, with an actual release shortly after. But this also means you can probably find the previous generation devices at more of a discount, so it is great if you're looking for an upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 for less. Just note that these devices won't be the latest and greatest offering from Apple in just a few more weeks.

iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Breaking it all down

So, what's different between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro, aside from the physical differences in the camera and colors? Let's take a look.

As you can see, the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro share many similarities, including the overall design, A15 Bionic, Ceramic Shield front, water resistant up to six meters for up to 30 minutes, starting 128GB storage capacities, and MagSafe. The iPhone 13 also has up to 19 hours of battery, which should be enough to get through the day (the mini has 17 hours), though the iPhone 13 Pro has 22 hours, with the iPhone 13 Pro Max having the most impressive 28 hours battery life. The standard iPhone 13 also uses aerospace-grade aluminum, so it's fairly light compared to the iPhone 13 Pro, which uses surgical-grade stainless steel on the exterior

But the biggest differences between the two devices lie within the display and camera system.

iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Display

One of the biggest differentiating factors between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro are the displays. For the most part, they are the same by having a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display that uses OLED technology, and the resolution is 2532x1170 for both (the mini and Max sizes would be a little smaller and bigger, respectively). For the regular iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro, you have 460 pixels-per-inch (ppi), while the mini and Pro Max are at 2778x1284 with 458 ppi and 2532x1170 at 460 ppi.

But once you get into the differences, it is a little more obvious which one is the superior choice. The regular iPhone 13 maxes out at 800 nits standard brightness and 1200 nits brightness for HDR. For the iPhone 13 Pro, it will max out at 1000 nits brightness for standard viewing, and 1200 nits brightness for HDR content. This means the Pro display is a little brighter with typical use, especially out in the sunlight.

The other major difference is the fact that only the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max have the ProMotion displays. ProMotion allows the display to have adaptive refresh rates of up to 120Hz, which means smoother scrolling and animations. This is also automatically set by the device and it depends on the type of content, so it can range from 10Hz to 120Hz. When you are doing something like reading a book, the refresh rate can be down to 10Hz, and if you’re playing a graphic-intensive game, it goes up to 120Hz.

Unfortunately, ProMotion is automatically set depending on the type of activity that you are doing on the phone. This is by design by Apple, so it helps preserve battery life — after all, if your display was always set to 120Hz, it would drain the battery faster.

For the average person, ProMotion may not mean very much because it can actually be hard to notice the impact it has in everyday use. However, if you have an iPhone 13 Pro-side-by-side with an older iPhone or the iPhone 13 that doesn’t have ProMotion, the differences are more apparent. But again, for the everyday user, it’s honestly negligible unless you are super nitpicky about finer details.

iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Cameras

The other big difference, and probably the one factor that determines whether you should get an iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro are the cameras. Simply put, if you take iPhone photography very seriously and want to be able to have optical zoom with a telephoto lens, then you should get the iPhone 13 Pro. Otherwise, the iPhone 13 should suit you just fine.

iPhone 13 is a dual 12MP camera system that only has Wide and Ultra Wide lenses. You do get sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS) and 2x optical zoom out with the Ultra Wide lens, which is pretty good. But if you plan on zooming in, the iPhone 13 only has digital zoom up to 5x, which, let’s be honest, digital zoom is never great. That’s because digital zoom simply enlarges the pixels in the center of an image and crops out the rest, giving the illusion of magnification, but at the cost of lesser resolution and overall quality. 

With the iPhone 13 Pro’s telephoto lens, you’ll have 3x optical zoom in with 6x optical zoom range, and digital zoom up to 15x. Optical zoom is different from digital zoom because it uses physical camera lens movement by increasing focal length. With the telephoto lens, you will be able to get closer to your subject without sacrificing quality.

Macro photography is also possible with only the iPhone 13 Pro devices, even though it doesn’t use telephoto for macro, just the Ultra Wide lens. This is probably because Apple wanted more features on the Pro lineup to entice customers to purchase it. With Macro mode on iPhone 13 Pro, it activates automatically once you are close enough to a subject. It basically uses the Ultra Wide lens to autofocus while still retaining the crop of the 1x Wide lens. Macro mode kicks in when you are within 2cm or 0.78-inches, and it works for both photos and video.

Finally, the iPhone 13 Pro is also capable of ProRes recording up to 4K at 30 fps for both the front and rear-facing cameras. This is a professional-level codec that is used by a lot of pro camera systems, usually in filmmaking. When you record in ProRes, it’s pretty much broadcast-ready content with high color fidelity and low compression. While you can record, edit, and deliver the content right on your iPhone 13 Pro, this is the kind of stuff that you’ll want to import into Final Cut Pro on your best Mac.

But be careful — a single minute of ProRes video at 4K resolution can eat up about 6GB of space on your iPhone. This is when the 1TB option for iPhone 13 Pro comes in handy. However, if you only have the 128GB model, then you are limited to ProRes at 1080p at 30fps.

iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 13 Pro: Which should you buy?

If you are looking for the absolute best iPhone, there's no doubt about it: the iPhone 13 Pro is the only way to go, especially if you want the best features for iPhone photography and videography. With bigger camera sensors that perform much better in low light environments, a 77mm telephoto lens giving you a total of 6x optical zoom range, Macro photography capabilities, and ProRes video recording, the choice is obvious. Plus, with up to 1TB of storage, there is going to be plenty of space to keep all of your amazing photos and videos in one place. And the ProMotion display ensures better response times and overall smoothness, especially while playing the best iPhone games.

But if you don't need all of that, then the iPhone 13 is still perfectly fine. It's still blazing fast with the A15 chip, and you'll still have Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles with Sensor-shift OIS. And even though the display doesn't have ProMotion, the difference could be negligible anyway for most people. After all, the regular OLED Super Retina XDR display is nothing to sneeze at either.

What you need to know

• Apple's iPhone 13 orders are now live.
• While most iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini deliveries will still arrive on launch day, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will not.
• Most new orders of iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will now deliver next month.

Now that the whole iPhone 13 lineup is ready for pre-order those who weren't able to order straight away are facing an extended wait for their new iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro to arrive. If ordered right now, most configurations of color and storage options will not arrive until early October.

While most iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13 color and storage combos are still good for September 24 delivery, it seems that anyone wanting the high-end iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will need to hang tight, with some orders unlikely to arrive until October 11.

Apple's iPhones often sell out quickly and this being the best iPhone ever was never going to prevent that from happening. Anyone who really wants to get a new iPhone sooner rather than later could still have some luck if they try to order for an in-store collection. Third-party retailers, including carriers, might be a good option as well.

Some models are still good to go for a September 24 delivery, though. A Graphite 128GB iPhone 13 Pro will still arrive on launch day, for example. In fact, that storage capacity seems to be the sweet spot across all iPhone 13 Pro colors, too.

What you need to know

• Now that cases are arriving we're seeing how much bigger iPhone 13 Pro's camera bump really is.
• New photos show an iPhone 12 Pro camera disappearing inside the space for an iPhone 13 Pro camera.

As we wait for iPhone 13 pre-orders to go live some people have already been lucky enough to receive their iPhone cases ahead of time. That's given us a look at just how big that camera bump is and boy is it a chonker.

There have been plenty of photos of iPhone 13 cases appear on social media over the last day or so, but one post in particular really highlights how the bump has grown from iPhone 12 Pro to iPhone 13 Pro. And it's pretty mesmerizing.

All of this has me wondering just what the state of play will be for those of us who are planning on going case-free this year. On one hand the new iPhones could appear to have their own built-in kickstand!

Apple's new iPhone 13 lineup will go up for pre-order in a matter of hours and then be made available for sale next Friday, September 24. This is set to be the best iPhone lineup ever, but it's impossible to look beyond that camera bump right now. We've been promised improved camera performance because of it, but given the news iPhone 14 is expected to ditch the bump altogether, it's an interesting sight.

Just how much thicker is next year's iPhone going to be?!

What you need to know

• The online Apple Store is now down ahead of iPhone 13 pre-orders.
• Pre-orders begin at 05:00 PDT.

As iPhone buyers get ready to place their pre-orders Apple has taken its online store down to prepare. At 05:00 PDT, iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro in all of their various colors and storage options will be available for pre-order.

Whether Apple needs to take its store offline for these launches anymore is a matter of debate, but it definitely helps to build the buzz and excitement as we wait to instruct Apple which iPhone we want come launch day — Friday, September 24.

The new iPhone 13 lineup includes iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max with the latter set to be the best iPhone ever in terms of performance thanks to its five-core GPU and a massive 6.7-inch screen. The smaller iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini only have four cores, for comparison.

While iPhone 13 is the only new product going up for pre-order today, it won't be the only product launching next week. Both the new iPad and refreshed iPad mini are already available for pre-order, although anyone wanting to get in on the act now will need to wait for the store to come back online.

Unsure how to buy an iPhone? Our guide covers the very best way to buy your new iPhone and we'll also help you choose the best iPhone 13 color to go for, too.

I'm all set for the big iPhone 13 pre-order rush of 2021 — are you?

Apple's September event, 'California Streaming,' has come and gone, and there was a ton of stuff that was announced, including the iPhone 13 lineup. While some people think the iPhone 13 is an incremental upgrade over the iPhone 12, and that may very well be the case, I'm still excited to upgrade my iPhone 12 Pro to an iPhone 13 Pro once pre-orders open up.

Once Apple was done announcing the iPhone 13, I already knew exactly which configuration I wanted: Sierra Blue iPhone 13 Pro 1TB. Here's why that will be the best iPhone for me. Oh, and the reason for not going with a Max? Because I simply cannot use it comfortably.

One teeb, baby!

Ok, honestly, when I first heard the rumors that the iPhone 13 Pro may come in a 1TB size, I was very excited but also very skeptical. After all, this is Apple we're talking about, who still had 64GB as starting storage for several iPhone models, and continues to only offer 5GB of free iCloud storage. But it actually happened, and I'm quite amazed that this one came true. Plus, Apple has finally cut out the measly 64GB starting storage from the lineup — about dang time!

So why am I going with 1TB of storage? Well, I've brought it up a few times before, but I'm expecting a baby girl in November. As a first time mother (terribly nervous!), I'm expecting to take a ton of photos of my baby girl as she grows. I'm sure that anyone out there who is a parent can understand. While my husband and I may pick up a standalone digital camera at some point for better quality photos, I want my iPhone to always be at the ready for those spontaneous moments, prepared to capture whatever cute thing she's doing. This just isn't something you can always do with the best digital camera — an iPhone (or other smartphone) is best for that kind of job, right?

With my new baby on the way, I expect to be taking pretty much a million photos a day. I am thankful that Apple decided to make a 1TB option for the iPhone 13 Pro, because I feel like my Camera Roll will be filling up quickly. Even if I don't fill it up, I'd rather just not have to worry about running out of space.

New iPhone, new color

While I'm not exactly pleased with the choice of colors for the iPhone 13 Pro lineup (I really want pink, but absolutely need the Pro features), I've decided to go with the Sierra Blue color.

I was a big fan of the Pacific Blue for the iPhone 12 Pro series, and while I don't think I've quite fallen in love with Sierra Blue just yet, I'm hoping that it turns out better in person. After all, sometimes you just need to see a color in real life than a computer screen to get a better idea of how it looks. Another reason I'm going with Sierra Blue is that, well, that's the new color right? How else am I supposed to let the world know that I have the new iPhone 13 Pro?

I'm just glad that Apple gave us a better color than the hideous bronze that I kept seeing renders of in the weeks leading up to the event. Dodged a bullet with that one!

Better cameras

Of course, with every new iPhone, that means better improvements for the camera. And as I mentioned, with a baby on the way, I'm definitely excited for the camera upgrades that Apple's put in the iPhone 13 Pro lineup.

The biggest improvement for me is the fact that the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are back to having the same high-quality camera. That's right — the two Pro devices are equals once again, with the only differences being the battery life and screen size. I no longer have to be annoyed that I'm not getting the absolute best iPhone camera because I didn't go with the huge size because it's unusable for my petite hands (I get cramps after extended use).

Since I missed out on the Sensor-shift optical image stabilization from the iPhone 12 Pro Max last year, I'm happy that I'll finally be able to experience it for myself with the iPhone 13 Pro this year (and everyone else can too with the iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13). And the bigger sensors in the wide and ultra wide lenses allow them to work better in low-light environments.

The biggest surprise though is with macro photography capabilities up to two centimeters with the ultra wide lens. I thought this would be something that works with the telephoto, and not the ultra wide lens, so I'm interested in testing this out myself once I get my iPhone 13 Pro. But with macro photography built-in to the iPhone camera itself, well, I suppose we may not even need a lot of those lens accessories anymore, right?

And while I typically do not record a lot of video, I have a feeling that I will be once the baby arrives. The new Cinematic mode might be a little bit of overkill for what I need, but I'm also thinking about the cool things I could do with it. Perhaps putting together some kind of montage video for baby's first birthday? Either way, it's an exciting new feature.

Better battery, display, and processor

Ever since iOS 14.5, my iPhone 12 Pro battery has taken a major hit and never quite recovered. I used to be able to make it through an entire day (even most of the day at Disneyland) without needing to pull out a charger. But these days, my battery health is at 88% since launch, and I usually have to plug in by the evening. Though the iPhone 13 Pro will only have about another hour and a half of battery than its predecessor, I'll take anything at this point.

I have no previous experience with a 120Hz display, but I'm also eager to see how the new ProMotion display will stack up with previous iPhones. I'm sure it will be like the first time I used a Retina display — you just won't be able to go back. And with the A15 Bionic, I'm looking forward to everything just feeling faster and snappier.

What iPhone 13 are you getting?

These are the reasons why I'm going to be pre-ordering the iPhone 13 Pro tomorrow morning. Are you planning on getting a new iPhone? Which one?