Definition: iPhone 5s

The high-end iPhone preceding the iPhone 6 and a major upgrade from the iPhone 5. Introduced in September 2013 along with the entry-level 5c, it was the first time Apple offered two new phone models (see iPhone 5c). The 5s also featured iOS 7, a completely redesigned OS for the first time since the iPhone's debut in 2007 (see iOS versions).

Available with up to 64GB of storage, the 5s employed Apple's A7 64-bit CPU for faster processing and a second processor for motion sensing (see Apple coprocessor). A greatly enhanced camera with a larger sensor provided image stabilization, more accurate flesh tones (see True Tone Flash), slow-motion video, zoomed video, image filters and new modes for square pictures, panoramas and 10 stills per second. The 5s used a Nano SIM card, rather than the Micro SIM in previous iPhones.

Touch ID
A significant external change was Touch ID, which added a fingerprint reader to the home button. Users touched the button to unlock the phone or download from the App store. See iPhone.

The 5s and 5c Models

The 5s cases were metal with more conservative hues, whereas 5c cases were plastic and colorful. (Image courtesy of Apple, Inc.)

Touch ID Fingerprint Reader

Other than case colors, the most obvious external difference between the 5s and 5c hardware was the combo home button and fingerprint reader on the 5s. (Image courtesy of Apple, Inc.)