The iPhone 5 boasts a bigger screen, faster processor, and a new connector. But is it worth your hard-earned dollars?

Faster processor

The brains of the iPhone now have a faster processor than even the new iPad. According to Apple, the new A6 chipset* will result in applications loading twice as fast, graphics running smoother and photos capturing 40 percent faster.

LTE data and battery life

The new iPhone will connect with AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon’s faster LTE* data networks. This will mean significant increases in Web browsing and download speeds. It claims eight hours of talk time, 225 hours of stand-by, and eight hours of LTE Web browsing.

Bigger screen

The body of the iPhone 5 has been elongated*, adding about 6 millimeters to the screen height without changing the width. While the body is longer, the iPhone 5 is 18 percent thinner than the iPhone 4S — and 20 percent lighter.

Smaller dock connector

Apple has introduced an 80- percent smaller connector, called Lightning, which can be plugged into the phone in any direction, offers faster data transfer, and better durability.

The camera

The camera has gotten 25 percent smaller, has better low-light processing, and can produce panoramic images. The video camera can shoot 1080p HD video, has improved video stabilization, and allows you to take still pictures simultaneously* while you shoot video.

Price and design options

The new iPhone comes in black and white with a new, brushed metal back. The 16GB model will retail for US$199, 32GB for US$299, and 64GB for US$399.

Is it worth the upgrade?

The iPhone 4S was only a superficial upgrade to the device. But the iPhone 5 is an iterative step forward from Apple, which makes it a worthy purchase.

(SD-Agencies)