Apple Watch and new iPhones: What we know so far

Credit: Apple

Apple made a raft of new announcements at its "special event" today - with its Apple Watch and two new iPhones along with a brand new "one touch" payment system and an iOS update.

Here are the key points we know about them so far:

Apple Watch

Operated using a 'digital crown', Apple says its new smartwatch combines an "incredibly precise timepiece" with "a more immediate, intimate way to connect".

  • Comes in three editions: Watch, Watch Sport and Watch Gold Edition

  • iPhone required for use

  • Sapphire glass design: Only diamond can scratch it

  • Siri digital assistant

  • Gentle buzz notifications on wrist

  • Dictate and send messages

  • Activity app to track daily health and fitness - suggesting personalised daily goals

  • Available in US from early 2015

  • Starting price $349

iPhone 6/iPhone 6 Plus

iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Credit: Apple

The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are the first Apple phones to be larger than the predeccessors - though both are thinner than the previous incarnation.

  • Bigger: 4.7 inch (iPhone 6) and 5.5 inch (iPhone 6 Plus) screens

  • Higher-quality display: 1334x750 (iPhone 6) and 1920x1080 (iPhone 6 Plus) resolution

  • Thinner: 6.9mm (iPhone 6) and 7.1mm (iPhone 6 Plus) deep

  • Increased battery life: Up to 10 hours 3G browsing (iPhone 6) and up to 12 hours 3G browsing (iPhone 6 Plus)

  • More efficient, higher performance A8 chip

  • Improved camera with 1080p HD video capture and time-lapse video mode

  • US ranging from $199-$399 iPhone 6 and $299-$499 for iPhone 6 Plus with two-year contract

  • Available for pre-order from Friday

Apple Pay

Apple Pay. Credit: Apple

Apple also launched a new contactless payments service that will come with every new iPhone.

  • Allows payment with one touch using an iPhone

  • Add numerous credit and debit cards

  • Unique, secure account number assigned

  • Initially launched in US

  • Will work with American Express, Mastercard and Visa payment networks

iOS 8

iOS 8. Credit: Apple

The new operating system has been described by Apple as the "biggest iOS release ever".

  • Updated Photos and Messages apps

  • New ways to respond to notifications

  • Share purchases from iTunes, iBooks and the App Store with up to six family members

  • New Health app

  • Available on iPhone 4S upward from 17 September