Since September 12 when Apple officially revealed the iPhone 8 and iPhone X for its 10-year anniversary, consumers have not stopped talking about its new features and the high price tags. While many are eager to get their hands on the latest from Apple, some are hesitant to give in to the hype. As an enthusiast of all things Apple, I preordered the iPhone 8 instead of the iPhone X because of its innovative features and appeal. Also, the iPhone X seems overrated for the price starting at $999.

The newest additions to Apple are said to have a stronger and more durable glass that can help the phone resist water and dust. The iPhone X, named after the Roman numeral for 10, has the largest display screen for an iPhone that has ever been offered before. Because of the larger screen, the home button has disappeared. While the iPhone 8 still has a button, the change in function is minuscule.

In fact, the differences between the iPhone 8 models and the iPhone X are hardly noticeable except for the physical differences in appearance. There are no distinctions between in the A11 Bionic Chip, the 12MP wide-angle camera, the wireless charging, capacity options, 3D Touch, brightness, resistance, cellular wireless, and audio/video calling.

With the variety of phone colors increasing over the years, clear and protective cases have become trendy in attempt to show-off the color selection. While the iPhone 8 still offers the standard silver, space gray, and gold, the iPhone X has discontinued gold due to its lowering demand.

A new terrifying feature is the Face ID, only available in the iPhone X. This can cause security risks because the phone would automatically unlock at the sight of the owner’s face. Essentially, if someone takes your phone when you are not paying attention and briefly shows it your face, he/she has full access to everything on your phone.

Sophomores Ami Carey, Arianna Paxinos, and Madeline Doyle were asked their opinion on the new iPhone X, and surprisingly, they had contradicting views. Carey and Paxinos agreed that the iPhone X is overpriced for its exaggerated functions, while Doyle was thrilled by the new technology. They were questioned if they liked/disliked the new technology as well as why the iPhone X was overwhelming or underwhelming. Carey replied, “I find it strange that the iPhone does not have a home button; it’s so weird because Apple always had it until now. The facial recognition scares me because of how easily accessible the phone is not only to the owner, but to those who take it.” Paxinos responded by saying, “The facial recognition is terrifying because it can scan your face in seconds and allow access to anyone who shows the phone your face!”

A positive perception of the iPhone X was depicted by Doyle’s response stating that, “The durability and quality has certainly become stronger. The Face ID seems creepy but interesting at the same time. The camera has many different lighting settings with an increased zoom length, which is beneficial for taking higher-quality pictures. Also, the new Animoji feature seems really cute, and the wireless charging is finally a reality for Apple products!”

Apple has certainly taken a large step towards innovation with sleek new features, but iPhones of the future will probably be constructed with cheaper alternatives ultimately lowering the price.
The only reason I purchased the new iPhone 8 was because my current phone broke. In other scenarios, I would recommend waiting for the next iPhone in the sequence after the X or getting the iPhone 8, which contains most of the same features.

Historically, phones were used for calling, texting, and mailing people, but technological advancements has allowed them to become so much more. Rather than splurging on the new iPhone X, save up for Apple’s next generation iPhone.