apple store

Apple is now offering an unlocked and SIM-free iPhone 5s model through its online store. The GSM handset is available in all iPhone 5s colors (space gray/gold/silver) and at 16GB, 32GB and 64GB storage capacities.

You can nab the 16GB version at the unsubsidized price of $649, the 32GB model for $749, and the 64GB model at $849. There is also a T-Mobile version which ships with a T-Mobile SIM card. The T-Mobile model is shipping in 3-5 business days, and the other models are shipping in 1-2 weeks.

Apple retail stores will begin offering hardware repairs for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c, according to a report published by 9to5Mac. iPhone 5s and 5c owners who are not covered under Apple's AppleCare warranty will be able to pay $149 for a screen replacement and $79 for a new battery. iPhone 5c customers will also be able to buy a new Home button for $29. However, Apple employees will not be able to replace Touch ID Home buttons for the iPhone 5s.

Allowing employees to repair damaged iPhones in-store will save Apple money from having to fully replace devices. 9to5Mac's sources revealed that Apple has already begun shipping the "replacement parts, new iPhone screen calibration machines, and training manuals" for the repairs to a few retail locations.

Apple has launched an update to its official Apple Store application for mobile shopping on iOS devices. Besides being able to research and purchase all of your favorite Apple products, the app now provides notifications that will let you know when you're eligible for an iPhone upgrade at the subsidized price. When you're ready to order your new phone, simply use the app to have it delivered to your doorstep.

Other notifications have also been added, providing shipping information for orders and letting you know when your purchases have been delivered. As always, the Apple Store app makes it possible to order items and pick them up later at the nearest retail location.

That time of year when Apple offers discounts for holiday shoppers is fast approaching. The company has launched its online Gift Guide to help shoppers find the perfect electronic gift. This year, Apple is focusing heavily on the iPad mini, the latest iOS device to hit the market.

Besides encouraging iPad sales, several accessories are highlighted that can be used in conjunction with iOS devices. Everything from Mac computers to iPhones and musical instruments can be shipped for free on the Apple online store. Apple's Gift Guide is not the only way to find the perfect item for friends and family. Holiday shopping apps such as whohas.it can track hard-to-find items and send alerts directly to your iOS device when a product becomes available.

The latest major update to the iOS Apple Store app is here. Passbook integration was expected but Apple didn't stop there. Users of the app can now use Siri to get information about Apple products using voice queries.

Changes have been made to point-of-sale devices in Apple's retail stores to complement the additional functionality found in the Apple Store app. Passbook-ready digital gift cards came online just yesterday, and can now be purchased, gifted and used to pay for Apple products.