For the new iPhone, Apple said it used a strong grade of aluminum for the case, similar to one used in the aerospace industry. The company hopes the stronger material will quiet the "Bendgate" backlash, which erupted when some customers complained that their 5.5-inch iPhone 6s's bent after being sat on.

Apple made other hardware upgrades such as with Touch ID, and to the phone's processor and camera. Apple said the 12-megapixel camera of the new iPhone would be a major improvement over the 8-megapixel cameras it has used for years. And the 5-megapixel front-facing camera will bring the new iPhone on par with many competing handsets.