Consumer Reports: Apple iPhone 6s initial tests

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WHTM – (WHTM) - Consumer Reports pre-ordered the new iPhone 6S and 6S plus and went to work on delivery.

First up, photo experts tested the upgraded 12-megapixel camera and compared it to previous models. In preliminary tests, the upgraded still camera is only slightly improved over the iPhone 6. You probably won't notice the addition of 4-megapixels.

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But you may notice the larger file size on Apple's new Live Photo feature. Consumer Reports says the files take up three times more space than just still photos, but the sizes may vary depending on your subject.

Testers found that the updated 5-megapixel "selfie" camera has a wider-angle lens and works better in low light. That's because the new retina flash uses the phone's screen to light up your face.

The screen is made of what Apple says is "the strongest cover glass used on any smartphone in the world." To check if that makes it more scratch resistant, testers put it through an abrasion test. They found it was no better at resisting scratches than the iPhone 6.

Consumer Reports says that if you have an iPhone 4 or 5, you might consider upgrading to the 6S. You'll appreciate the higher quality camera and some of the new features, but if you already have an iPhone 6, you won't see such a big difference and might want to save your money for the next version that Apple's bound to roll out next year.

One of the big complaints against previous versions of the iPhone has been battery life. Consumer Reports has started battery testing on the 6S. They will have the results of those tests and the final ratings of the phone within a few weeks.