As anticipation builds, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has all but confirmed that Apple’s next big event is set for September 10th. This highly anticipated launch is expected to introduce a range of new products, including the iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Series 10, and potentially a refreshed lineup of AirPods.
Apple is expected to unveil four new models in the iPhone 16 lineup: the standard iPhone 16, the iPhone 16 Plus, the iPhone 16 Pro, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. These new models are rumored to bring significant upgrades in display size and camera functionality, setting them apart from their predecessors.
Larger Displays for Pro Models
Apple appears to be embracing larger screens for its Pro models. The iPhone 16 Pro is rumored to increase its display from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, positioning it as a mid-sized option. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to make an even bigger leap, expanding to a 6.9-inch display, making it the largest non-foldable flagship phone in the U.S., outshining competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, which both measure 6.8 inches.
Enhanced Camera Functionality: The Capture Button
One of the most intriguing rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 series is the addition of a dedicated Capture button. This feature, reported by Mark Gurman, could function much like a traditional camera, with a half-press engaging auto-focus and a full press capturing the shot. Additionally, users may be able to swipe across the button to zoom in and out while shooting, offering a more intuitive photography experience. Although this feature is expected to debut on the Pro models, it may also appear on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus.
Price Adjustments for iPhone 16
As tech companies across the board raise prices, rumors suggest that Apple might only slightly increase the cost of its Pro models. The base models of the iPhone 16 series are expected to retain their current pricing structure. However, Apple may eliminate the 128GB storage option for the iPhone 16 Pro, resulting in a starting price of $1,099 for the 256GB model.
Apple Watch Series 10: What’s New?
Apple is also rumored to be making significant changes to its wearable lineup with the Apple Watch Series 10. This new series is expected to feature the most substantial design overhaul since the Apple Watch 7, with larger displays and enhanced health-tracking features.
Larger, More Immersive Displays
Reports indicate that the Apple Watch Series 10 will come in two sizes, 45mm and 49mm, compared to the current 41mm and 45mm options. These larger displays could measure up to 2 inches, making it the largest Apple Watch yet. Despite the size increase, the watch is expected to maintain a sleek form factor with thinner bezels, allowing for a more immersive user experience.
Advanced Health Tracking: Sleep Apnea and Hypertension Detection
One of the most anticipated features of the Apple Watch Series 10 is its potential to detect sleep apnea and monitor blood pressure. However, these features are still under development, and reports suggest they may not be ready for this year’s release. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that these health-tracking capabilities have encountered challenges in testing, particularly due to ongoing patent issues with Masimo Corp., which may delay their debut until a future model.
Apple AirPods 4: What’s in Store?
Finally, Apple is expected to refresh its AirPods lineup, potentially unveiling two new versions during the September event. The last update to the original AirPods was in 2021, and rumors indicate that Apple is planning to introduce a more budget-friendly option to replace the aging AirPods 2, along with a sequel to the AirPods 3.
Differentiating the New AirPods Models
The primary difference between the two new AirPods models is expected to be Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). The more expensive sequel to the AirPods 3 is rumored to include ANC, a feature currently exclusive to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. This move could make ANC more accessible to a broader audience while maintaining a budget-friendly option without this feature.