On September 12, at 10 AM PT, the tech world’s eyes will be fixated on One Apple Park Way as Tim Cook and his team prepare to showcase the latest gadgets ahead of the holiday season. As the anticipation builds, let’s take a look at what’s in store for the big Apple event.
Among the sure bets for the event are the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9. These iconic products are expected to take center stage, offering consumers a glimpse of what’s to come in the world of smartphones and wearables.
iPhone 15: Embracing USB-C
The most prominent announcement is likely to be the iPhone 15, and what makes it even more intriguing is that Apple didn’t make this change by choice. The European Union (EU) played a significant role in this shift by standardizing ports across devices. While manufacturers were given until the end of 2024 to implement this technology, all signs point to Apple adopting USB-C for the iPhone 15. This change aligns with growing consumer advocacy and e-waste concerns worldwide.
Apple’s decision to shift away from the Lightning connector, which has been a staple for a decade, is a significant move. Many users and tech enthusiasts have criticized the Lightning connector, making this change a welcome one for many.
Interestingly, reports suggest that the higher USB 3.2 data speed will be reserved for the pro models, while the standard iPhone 15 may stick with USB 2.0, which is still common in the Android realm. Additionally, wireless charging is expected to receive a boost, reaching 35W across all models. Apple may adopt the Qi2 standard, which combines wireless charging with magnets, a feature that aligns with Apple’s history in the Wireless Power Consortium.
The Dynamic Island feature, initially introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, is also expected to make its way to the standard models, enhancing user experiences.
iPhone 15 Ultra
Another exciting addition to the lineup is the rumored iPhone 15 Ultra, set to replace the Pro Max. This model is anticipated to feature a 6.7-inch display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, thinner bezels, and a new “Action” button, replacing the traditional Mute button. This button, borrowed from the Apple Watch Ultra, offers various customizable shortcuts, enhancing user accessibility and control.
Apple Watch Series 9
While the rumor mill has been relatively quiet regarding the Apple Watch, it’s still likely to see some updates. The Apple Watch Series 9 and the Ultra 2 are expected to receive new processors and color options. There’s also speculation about Apple considering 3D printing for case design, following the Vision Pro’s lead. However, given the mass-market appeal of the Apple Watch, the scalability of 3D printing remains a question.
AirPods and Beyond
AirPods enthusiasts might finally get a treat, although it’s more likely to happen in 2024 with the introduction of the H2 chip. However, a standalone USB-C charging case could be on the horizon. Additionally, it’s been almost three years since the AirPods Max release, so a new iteration could also be in the works. Lastly, an updated HomePod mini could make an appearance.
Other Expectations
The Apple event could provide a deeper look at the Vision Pro headset, offering a closer glimpse of its capabilities. The content for this spatial computing headset remains a mystery, but given its early 2024 market release, demos might be in store. As the SDK and Unity’s development platform have had time to mature, gaming-related announcements are also a possibility.
Lastly, the event might shed light on release dates for iOS, macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS updates. While Mac updates may not be the focus this time, the M3 chip could be a highlight in 2024.
As the Apple event approaches, tech enthusiasts around the world eagerly await these exciting revelations, setting the stage for a holiday season filled with innovative Apple products.
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