CUPERTINO, Calif., March 21 (UPI) — Apple unveiled new versions of its iPhone and iPad Monday at its spring launch event.
CEO Tim Cook revealed the new iPhone SE, which is a slimmed down version with a four-inch screen but carries all the technology of the 6S, a 12-megapixel camera and enhanced security features.
The new iPhone will be available in stores March 31. Apple will begin taking pre-orders Thursday.
Cook called it “the most powerful four-inch phone ever created.”
The company also announced a new version of the iPad Pro with a near 10-inch screen. Orders for the new iPads also start Thursday.
Before unveiling the new products Monday, Cook vowed to continue to protect customers’ privacy as the company continues its bitter fight with the U.S. Department of Justice.
“We believe strongly that we have a responsibility to help you protect your data and protect your privacy,” Cook said. “We owe it to our customers and we owe it to our country. This is an issue that affects all of us and we will not shrink from our responsibility.”
The virtual Apple Store was temporarily shuttered Monday morning before the new product unveiling and reopened shortly after.
The March announcement had tech watchers buzzing. Apple has historically announced new mobile devices in September or October, with the exception of the 2015 introduction of the Apple Watch.
