iPhone X launches to mass fanfare in US

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - Thousands amassed outside Apple stores across the U.S. on Friday in hopes of taking home the company's latest coveted smart phone.

The iPhone X brings with it new technologies for Apple's true believers, including a new high-resolution bezel-less OLED "Super Retina" screen, wireless charging capabilities, and improved dual 12-megapixel cameras.

But the biggest change comes from Apple's decision to do away with its long-time mainstay home button, instead using a facial recognition camera to unlock the device.

Initial reviews of the new phone have been largely positive, but some have questioned whether the facial recognition technology can keep up with Apple's ambitions.

Still, it's the new phone's price tag that has been the largest obstacle for some buyers. Apple's latest and greatest starts at $999 for the 64-gigabit model. That price inflates to $1,149 for a 256-gigabit version.

That is the highest price ever for an iPhone.

Some, like Chris Rotella, are opting to use Apple's monthly payment plan to upgrade from an older model. He said it was a marginal" difference he is going to pay.

"You don't use anything more than a phone when it comes to electronics," Rotella said.

He was able to skip the hours-long wait many endured to take home the new model by setting up a pre-order.

Jim Hellaron, who is visiting from Cleveland, was the first in line early Friday outside Apple's store in the Georgetown section of Washington, DC. Rather than pre-order he chose to skip the long wait by using a line-sitter.

"We wanted to get the thing as soon as possible," he said of the phone he is also getting for his daughter.

Apple’s stock soared to more than 3 percent at the opening bell on Wall Street on Friday. helping to push its valuation above $900 billion.