This upcoming September 9th, Apple will host its much-anticipated fall event, where the company always unveils new product lines. Under the slogan "It's Glowtime," in just a few days we will witness the launch of the iPhone 16, along with a range of new devices and significant updates that will likely cover everything from the Apple Watch to AirPods and the iPad mini. Let’s take a detailed look at everything we can expect from this exciting fall event.
iPhone 16: Innovation and Power Redefined
The launch of the iPhone 16 will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of the event, and we believe that Apple has prepared several important new features for this new generation of its iconic smartphone.
Larger Screens, Design Changes, and Action Button
One of the expected updates is a slight increase in screen size and a new aspect ratio for the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models. Although the external design is not expected to undergo major changes, these modifications will offer a more immersive visual experience. Additionally, all four iPhone 16 models will feature a new Capture Button, allowing for more precise photo and video shooting, enhancing the photographic experience.
Regarding the camera layout, the standard iPhone 16 models are expected to have a vertical configuration, in contrast to the diagonal design used in previous versions. This change could facilitate spatial video recording using the Ultra Wide and Wide cameras, which we might later see integrated into the Apple Vision Pro.
The Action Button, introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models, is expected to remain in all iPhone 16 models. This button, which replaces the traditional mute switch, offers a wide range of customizable functions such as activating the flashlight, opening the camera, using the magnifier, launching a shortcut, enabling or disabling a focus mode, and other options.
Enhanced Microphone and Advanced Camera Technology
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 16 models will incorporate an optimized microphone to significantly improve the Siri experience and prepare it for the new Apple Intelligence features.
Furthermore, photography enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to with the camera enhancements in the iPhone 16. The Pro models could feature an improved 48-megapixel Ultra Wide lens, designed to deliver higher image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are also expected to include a 5x telephoto lens, a feature previously limited to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, thereby expanding optical zoom capabilities across more devices.
Battery Innovations, A18 Pro Processor, and Other Rumored Features
The iPhone 16 Pro models are anticipated to incorporate stacked battery technology, which could result in higher capacity and longer battery life. This advancement might be complemented by faster charging speeds, both through MagSafe and wired connections.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models are expected to be powered by the new A18 Pro processor, offering speed improvements and an optimized Neural Engine, as well as support for advanced generative AI capabilities. The standard models will also use a variant of the A18 chip, although the exact specifications have yet to be confirmed.
Among other rumored features, the iPhone 16 Pro Max could be the first device to include a super telephoto periscope camera, offering a dramatic increase in optical zoom. Additionally, the iPhone 16 Pro models might come equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem, allowing for faster and more efficient 5G connectivity. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculates that these models could adopt next-generation WiFi 7 technology, which promises speeds of up to 40Gb/s, marking a significant advancement in wireless connectivity.
Apple Watch, AirPods, iPad, and More: Other Expected Releases This September
While the iPhone 16 will be the star of the event, we expect Apple to also introduce other products that certainly won’t go unnoticed.
Apple Watch Series 10: Redesign and Durability
The Apple Watch Series 10 is another major release expected at this event. It appears to feature a slimmer design and larger screens, available in 45mm and 49mm sizes, the latter matching the size of the Apple Watch Ultra. The device could include a thinner logic board, allowing for greater durability and water resistance, as well as additional space for other components. However, advanced health features such as hypertension and sleep apnea detection, although in development, may not be ready for launch, according to Gurman.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Small Changes, Great Potential
Although an important update was initially expected with the inclusion of a microLED display, rumors suggest that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will have more modest changes. The design will remain virtually the same, with a possible update to the S9 chip, laying the groundwork for future AI-based improvements. While advanced health features might not arrive this year, Apple could surprise us with new low-power OLED technology to enhance the device's battery life without sacrificing performance.
Apple Watch SE 3: Accessibility and Modernization
The new Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to be the most attractive option for those seeking a modern smartwatch at a more affordable price. With larger screens similar to the Apple Watch Series 8 and a rigid plastic body instead of aluminum, the SE 3 aims to reduce costs and appeal to a younger audience and parents looking for a durable and economical device for their children, all while offering the latest and best features.
AirPods 4: Renewal in Two Versions
The AirPods 4 will arrive in two versions, one of which will feature active noise cancellation (ANC) at a more accessible price, potentially attracting a wider audience. Both versions will showcase a redesigned look with USB-C ports, shorter stems, and improved sound quality thanks to the H2 chip, enabling faster connectivity and greater energy efficiency. Additionally, the charging case is likely to include a speaker to facilitate location through Find My.
AirPods Max 2: Possible Evolution
After three years, the AirPods Max 2 could make their debut with some significant changes, including the adoption of a USB-C port and possibly the inclusion of the H2 chip. Although rumors suggest the launch might occur later in the year, the second generation of these headphones would offer better connectivity options and new color combinations, maintaining their position at the forefront of the audio experience.
iPad mini 7: Compact but Powerful
The iPad mini 7 could be unveiled during this event or in the following months. It is rumored to include an A17 Pro chip, camera improvements, and support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, keeping the iPad mini competitive in a market that increasingly demands more performance in compact devices.
New Cases and Straps: A Fresh Style Touch
As usual, we expect Apple to also introduce new cases for the iPhone and straps for the Apple Watch in a wide variety of colors. The compatibility of the straps will extend to both the Series 10 models and the Apple Watch Ultra, allowing users greater customization of their devices.
Software: iOS 18 Arrives
The event will also announce the official release dates for Apple’s new software versions: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, and tvOS 18. As we saw in full in June, these impressive updates, which usher in a new era with Apple Intelligence, will bring new features to our devices (see compatible devices here).
In just a few days, Apple’s fall event "It's Glowtime" promises to bring us much joy. With major new product launches and significant improvements to existing devices, it’s clear that Apple continues to lead the technology market.
On Hanaringo | Ugreen Nexode power bank, review: two portable titans for travel and adventure