The iPhone 5S, launched by Apple in September 2013, marked a significant leap in smartphone technology. This device introduced the A7 chip, making it the first smartphone with 64-bit architecture, doubling its processing power and graphics performance. The iPhone 5S also debuted Touch ID, a fingerprint recognition feature that enhanced security and user convenience.
Apple’s flagship device for 2013 boasted several noteworthy specs. It featured a 4-inch Retina display with 1136 x 640 pixel resolution, offering crisp visuals for photos and videos. The main camera was 8 megapixels with improved low-light capabilities, while the front camera was 1.2 megapixels for FaceTime calls.
The iPhone 5S came in three stylish finishes: space gray, silver, and gold. It ran on iOS 7, which brought a fresh, flat design to Apple’s mobile operating system. Storage options included 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB, catering to different user needs.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | A7 chip (64-bit) |
| Display | 4-inch Retina |
| Main Camera | 8 MP |
| Front Camera | 1.2 MP |
| Storage Options | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Gold |
The iPhone 5S was a popular phone when it was released, and it had some notable features for its time. Here’s a rundown of its key specifications:
Display:
- 4-inch Retina display with 1136 x 640 resolution (~326 ppi pixel density)
- IPS LCD with LED backlight
- 800:1 contrast ratio (typical)
- 500 cd/m2 max brightness (typical)
- Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
Processor:
- Apple A7 chip with 64-bit architecture
Memory:
- 1 GB RAM
Storage:
- 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB (depending on the model)
Camera:
- Rear: 8 MP iSight camera with f/2.2 aperture, True Tone flash, 1080p HD video recording at 30 fps, and slow-motion video at 120 fps
- Front: 1.2 MP FaceTime camera with f/2.4 aperture and 720p HD video recording
Connectivity:
- 4G LTE
- Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n)
- Bluetooth 4.0
- GPS
Other Features:
- Touch ID fingerprint sensor built into the Home button
- iOS 7 (originally), upgradable to iOS 12.5.6
- Nano-SIM
Dimensions and Weight:
- Height: 4.87 inches (123.8 mm)
- Width: 2.31 inches (58.6 mm)
- Depth: 0.30 inch (7.6 mm)
- Weight: 3.95 ounces (112 grams)
Battery:
- Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Talk time: Up to 10 hours on 3G
- Standby time: Up to 10 days
- Internet use: Up to 8 hours on 3G, up to 10 hours on LTE, up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi
- Video playback: Up to 10 hours
- Audio playback: Up to 40 hours
Design and Build
The iPhone 5S boasts a sleek and refined design. It combines premium materials with careful attention to detail. The device strikes a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Dimensions and Weight
The iPhone 5S measures 123.8 mm in height, 58.6 mm in width, and 7.6 mm in depth. These compact dimensions make it easy to hold and use with one hand. The device weighs a mere 112 grams, adding to its portability.
Apple maintained the same size as its predecessor, the iPhone 5. This decision allowed for continued use of existing accessories. The 4-inch display provides a good balance between screen real estate and pocketability.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 123.8 mm |
| Width | 58.6 mm |
| Depth | 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 112 g |
Materials and Colors
The iPhone 5S features a high-quality aluminum body. This gives it a premium feel and enhances durability. The front of the device is covered with glass featuring an oleophobic coating. This coating helps resist fingerprints and smudges.
Apple offers the iPhone 5S in three colors:
- Silver
- Gold
- Space Gray
The gold option was new for the 5S. It proved popular among users looking for a more luxurious appearance. The space gray replaced the previous slate color, offering a darker alternative to silver.
The metal and glass construction gives the iPhone 5S a sophisticated look. It also provides a solid feel in your hand. The chamfered edges add a touch of elegance to the overall design.
Hardware Specifications
The iPhone 5S packs powerful hardware into its sleek design. Key features include a 64-bit processor, advanced camera system, and high-resolution Retina display.
Processor and Memory
The iPhone 5S introduces the Apple A7 chip, the first 64-bit processor in a smartphone. This dual-core CPU runs at 1.3 GHz, delivering twice the performance of its predecessor. The A7 is paired with a PowerVR G6430 GPU for enhanced graphics capabilities.
An M7 motion coprocessor works alongside the A7, efficiently processing data from the device’s sensors. This offloads work from the main processor, improving battery life.
The 5S comes with 1 GB of RAM and storage options of 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB. No expandable storage is available.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Apple A7 (64-bit) |
| CPU Speed | 1.3 GHz dual-core |
| GPU | PowerVR G6430 |
| RAM | 1 GB |
| Storage | 16/32/64 GB |
Display and Resolution
The iPhone 5S features a 4-inch Retina display with IPS technology. Its resolution of 640 x 1136 pixels results in a pixel density of 326 ppi, providing sharp, crisp visuals.
The display uses LED backlighting and offers a 800:1 contrast ratio. Its multi-touch surface supports up to five simultaneous touches.
With a maximum brightness of 500 nits, the screen remains visible in various lighting conditions. The display is protected by a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating.
Camera and Video
The iPhone 5S boasts an 8 MP iSight rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and 1.5µ pixels. It features a dual-LED True Tone flash for more natural-looking photos in low light.
Key camera features include:
- Autofocus
- Face detection
- Burst mode (up to 10 fps)
- Panorama (up to 28 MP)
- HDR for photos
The rear camera can record 1080p HD video at 30 fps and 720p slow-motion video at 120 fps. A 1.2 MP FaceTime HD camera on the front captures 720p video for selfies and video calls.
Software and Features
The iPhone 5S introduced several key software improvements and innovative features. These enhancements focused on user security and a refined operating system experience.
Operating System
The iPhone 5S launched with iOS 7, a major redesign of Apple’s mobile operating system. This update brought a flatter, more modern look to the interface. Key changes included:
- Control Center for quick access to settings
- Improved multitasking
- AirDrop for easy file sharing
- iTunes Radio for streaming music
iOS 7 also introduced automatic app updates and enhanced photo organization. The 5S could later upgrade to iOS 9, which added features like:
- Low Power Mode
- News app
- Transit directions in Maps
- Improved Siri functionality
These updates kept the device current for several years after its release.
Security and Sensors
The iPhone 5S marked a significant leap in mobile security with the introduction of Touch ID. This fingerprint sensor allowed you to:
- Unlock your phone quickly and securely
- Make App Store purchases without entering a password
- Authenticate third-party apps
The device also included several other sensors:
| Sensor Type | Function |
|---|---|
| Accelerometer | Detect motion and orientation |
| Proximity sensor | Turn off the display during calls |
| Ambient light sensor | Adjust screen brightness |
These sensors enhanced the user experience by enabling features like auto-rotate and adaptive display brightness. The M7 motion coprocessor tracked fitness data without draining the main battery.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The iPhone 5S offers robust connectivity options and impressive battery performance. It supports various network standards and wireless technologies while delivering long-lasting power for everyday use.
Network and SIM
The iPhone 5S supports LTE, GSM, CDMA, HSPA, and UMTS networks. This wide range of compatibility ensures you can use the device on most cellular networks worldwide. The phone uses a Nano-SIM card, which is smaller than previous SIM card types.
LTE connectivity allows for fast data speeds where available. GSM and CDMA support means you can use the iPhone 5S on both types of networks, making it versatile for international travel.
Wireless and Location
You’ll find several wireless technologies in the iPhone 5S:
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band
- Bluetooth: 4.0
- GPS and GLONASS
- Digital Compass
Wi-Fi supports dual-band connectivity, giving you access to both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks for faster and more stable connections. Bluetooth 4.0 enables low-energy connections to accessories and other devices.
The combination of GPS and GLONASS enhances location accuracy. This improved precision is helpful for navigation apps and location-based services.
Battery Performance
The iPhone 5S comes with a 1560 mAh battery. Here’s a breakdown of its performance:
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Talk time (3G) | Up to 10 hours |
| Standby time | Up to 250 hours |
| Internet use (3G/LTE) | Up to 8 hours |
| Internet use (Wi-Fi) | Up to 10 hours |
| Video playback | Up to 10 hours |
| Audio playback | Up to 40 hours |
These figures may vary based on your usage patterns and network conditions. The iPhone 5S supports standard charging through its Lightning port.
You can extend battery life by adjusting screen brightness, disabling unnecessary background processes, and using Wi-Fi instead of cellular data when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
The iPhone 5S comes with several key features and specifications. Let’s explore some common questions about its dimensions, battery, camera, storage, connectivity, and pricing.
What are the dimensions and weight of the iPhone 5S?
The iPhone 5S measures 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) in height, 2.31 inches (58.6 mm) in width, and 0.30 inch (7.6 mm) in depth. It weighs 3.95 ounces (112 grams).
What is the battery life and capacity of the iPhone 5S?
The iPhone 5S has a 1560 mAh battery. It offers up to 10 hours of talk time on 3G, up to 250 hours of standby time, and up to 10 hours of internet use on LTE.
What are the camera specifications of the iPhone 5S?
The iPhone 5S features an 8 MP rear camera with True Tone flash. It can record 1080p HD video at 30 fps and slow-motion video at 120 fps. The front-facing camera is 1.2 MP with 720p HD video recording.
How much internal storage does the iPhone 5S offer?
You can choose from 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB storage options for the iPhone 5S. The device doesn’t have expandable storage.
What types of connectivity does the iPhone 5S support?
The iPhone 5S supports various connectivity options. These include 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, and GPS with GLONASS. It also has a Lightning connector for charging and data transfer.
What was the original retail price of the iPhone 5S at launch?
The iPhone 5S launched with a starting price of $199 for the 16 GB model with a two-year contract. The 32 GB and 64 GB versions were priced at $299 and $399 respectively with a contract.
| Storage Capacity | Launch Price (with contract) |
|---|---|
| 16 GB | $199 |
| 32 GB | $299 |
| 64 GB | $399 |
