Are you curious about what to anticipate from Apple’s upcoming event? It’s just around the corner, poised to showcase the latest innovations from the tech behemoth valued in the trillions.
Scheduled for September 9 under the tagline “It’s Glowtime,” this Apple event is anticipated to launch a variety of next-generation devices. Expected highlights include the new iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple AirPods 4.
In addition, there may be news regarding Apple Intelligence, the company’s fresh suite of AI features, especially since artificial intelligence continues to dominate discussions in the tech realm.
There are also whispers about the potential introduction of the iPad mini 7 and the AirPods Pro 3, though these claims are less substantiated.
Anticipations for Apple’s 2024 Event
If you’re wondering about what Apple has in store, here’s a glimpse at the current speculation.
iPhone 16
As expected, the headline act at Apple’s event will be the announcement of the iPhone 16 series.
Credit: Mashable composite; Shutterstock / SkyArtist01, Champiofoto
Numerous rumors about the upcoming iPhone suggest that the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will maintain the same size as previous models. However, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to feature slightly larger displays, increasing by 0.2 inches to 6.3 and 6.9 inches respectively. Reportedly, the next iteration will also sport thinner bezels.
Another significant change could be the inclusion of the Action Button across the entire iPhone 16 lineup. This customizable button previously debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro models. Additionally, the iPhone 16 series may incorporate the camera-specific Capture Button seen on the iPhone 15 range.
There’s speculation that the iPhone 16 Pro could also feature solid-state buttons, providing haptic feedback rather than physical movement. The details surrounding the Action Button’s functionality remain unclear, but it wouldn’t be out of the question.
Rumors surrounding the camera include the possibility of a stacked design for the rear camera system, which should enhance overall performance. Apple may also aim to reduce lens flare and ghosting by applying an anti-reflective coating to the camera lenses.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16 Pro models might offer 5X telephoto zoom—previously exclusive to the 15 Pro Max—while the ultrawide camera could see a resolution increase from 12MP on the 15 Pro to 48MP on the new models.
Leaked information indicates that the 16 Pro series could be available with up to 2TB of storage, which would allow users to store countless 48MP images. A new color option may also be introduced, identified as “Desert Titanium.”
Apple Watch Series 10
Another highlight is the anticipated announcement of the latest Apple Watch series. According to multiple sources, the Apple Watch Series 10 could see an increase in screen sizes with 45mm and 49mm options, mirroring the larger size of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. In contrast, the Series 9 currently comes in 41mm and 45mm variants.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
There’s speculation that the Apple Watch Series 10 will also be thinner than its predecessor. Notable analysts have indicated that Apple aims to slim down its devices, with recent models already showcasing this trend.
While significant changes in other products may be delayed until next year, industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that the Watch 10 is likely to feature a sleeker design.
There’s potential for a new magnetic band system for the Apple Watch, although it’s yet to be determined if it will be included in this Series or saved for future versions.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to appear, but major design changes are not on the horizon, as it will likely retain the aesthetic established in 2022.
Credit: Apple / Mashable Composite
Whispers about the Ultra 3 highlight potential new color options for the casing and an improved chip alongside the Series 10. However, major upgrades remain elusive.
Apple is reportedly developing new health monitoring features for both the Watch and Watch Ultra, including implementations for blood pressure, sleep apnea detection, and glucose monitoring. Nevertheless, ongoing challenges in achieving accurate calculations may postpone these innovations.
Apple AirPods 4
The upcoming fourth generation of Apple AirPods is also slated for a September reveal, potentially replacing both the AirPods 3 and 2 with new mid-range and entry-level AirPods 4 models.
Credit: Molly Flores / Mashable
Both variants are expected to showcase refreshed designs, possibly new color options, along with a transition to USB-C charging. The mid-range AirPods 4 may also introduce active noise cancellation, a feature previously reserved for the AirPods Pro line.
Apple AirPods Pro 3
There’s buzz surrounding the next version of the AirPods Pro, which is reportedly in the pipeline.
Leakster @Kosutami_Ito on X mentioned that enhanced active noise cancellation capabilities will be part of the AirPods Pro feature set. While the specific release date remains uncertain, the September 9 event could potentially be when Apple unveils the AirPods Pro 3.
However, skepticism surrounds this rumor, as a Bloomberg report suggests that the AirPods Pro update may not land until 2024.
iPad mini 7
In addition to new iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods, analysts indicate that the iPad mini 7 might also make its debut later this year.
Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable
But how does he arrive at this conclusion? According to a recent tweet, the analyst said that many Apple retail locations are running low on iPad mini configurations, leading insiders to believe that a successor could be forthcoming.
Gurman highlighted that this hints a new iPad mini 7 may arrive in 2024 since it has not been updated since 2021. He also suggested it might come with AI enhancements, though it remains uncertain whether it will be unveiled at the September Apple event.
Tuning into Apple’s Event
Mark your calendars for September 9 at 10 a.m. PDT / 1 p.m. EDT for the Apple event. For those unable to attend in person at Cupertino, California, the keynote will be live-streamed. You can catch all the action on Apple’s official website, via the Apple TV app, and YouTube (video embedded below):