The big news at the Apple event is going to be the iPhone 16. As per usual, we’re also expecting at least one new Apple Watch. However, according to Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the Apple Watch Ultra won’t get a full redesign this time around—just a new color for the Ultra 2.
There’s been rumors about new AirPods, including noise-canceling models and a small update to the AirPods Max. As for M4 Macs, HomePods, the iPad mini, or even the iPhone SE, those might be later this year or 2025. Until Tim Cook gets on stage, it’s all just speculation.
iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro: What to Expect?
At the Apple event, the iPhone 16 will be the main attraction. Upgraders will have a lot to get excited about, but it’s expected to be iterative updates rather than new hardware.
Four Models, Same Names
According to Mark Gurman, Apple will stick with the usual formula and release four models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. These will be the same as last year’s iPhone 15, despite rumors of an “iPhone Ultra” name.
Pro Models Get a Slightly Bigger Screen
The Pro models might get a tiny screen size bump, which could be good for those who like bigger phones. The iPhone 16 Pro might go from 6.1 to 6.3 inches, and the Pro Max from 6.7 to 6.9 inches.
New Colors: Rose Gold and Gold Titanium?
As with every iPhone release, new colors are expected. Gurman says Apple might replace the blue model with rose gold. 9to5Mac reports the iPhone 16 Pro might come in a new gold titanium color—more of a sandy gold than bright gold, according to a source who correctly predicted last year’s gray titanium.
Hardware: A18 Chip and Apple Intelligence
Under the hood, the iPhone 16 series will have Apple’s A18 chip, built for Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI push. The Pro and Pro Max will get a more powerful chip. The phones will have 8GB of RAM so they can handle AI tasks and other heavy lifting.
Action Button and New Camera Button
The Action Button, which debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro, will likely appear on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. The button replaces the mute switch, and its default function is to control the ringer. However, it can be customized to launch the camera, turn on the flashlight, or perform other shortcuts.
There’s also a rumored new camera button on the right side of the phone, like a DSLR shutter button. This new button is part of the advanced camera system and will allow a soft press to focus and a hard press to take a photo. It may enable swiping gestures zoom but will likely be exclusive to the Pro and Pro Max models, which are always the more camera-focused phones.
Camera Changes: iPhone 16 is Vertical
Every iPhone release has camera updates, but details are scarce. However, reports say the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus might have a camera module design change, moving away from a square shape to a vertical one. The Pro and Pro Max will still be all about photos and videos, highlighting features that improve the quality and versatility of regular and 3D spatial photos and videos.
iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence
On the software side, the iPhone 16 will come with iOS 18, which was previewed at WWDC earlier this year. Expect updates like a customizable Control Center and Home Screen and, finally, RCS messaging.
As for Apple Intelligence, the AI features announced with iOS 18 won’t be available at launch. They’ll debut with iOS 18.1, which will likely be in October, so early adopters of the iPhone 16 will have to wait a bit to get those AI features. The new features include advanced writing tools that will help users check and refine their writing, turn shorthand notes into full sentences, and edit capabilities.
FineWoven Cases are Done?
The new iPhone release might also mean the end of Apple’s FineWoven cases, which debuted last year as a leather alternative but were panned for being flimsy. Gurman says FineWoven inventory is running low, so it’s likely a phase-out or redesign. Leaks say new iPhone cases in neutral colors made of a different material will replace the FineWoven line. The new iPhone 16 will have next-generation Ceramic Shield material, which is “two times tougher than any smartphone glass,” so it’s both durable and beautiful.
Buying an iPhone
Buying an iPhone has never been easier, with multiple channels to choose from. Whether you prefer the convenience of the online Apple Store or the hands-on experience at an Apple retail store, there are plenty of options for you. You can also buy an iPhone from carriers and other authorized third-party retailers.
When you buy an iPhone, you can choose from different models, storage options, and colors to find the perfect one for you. Apple also has a trade-in program that allows you to trade in your old iPhone or other smartphones for credit toward your new purchase. The condition of your trade-in device will affect the amount of credit you get, so take good care of your old phone.
Go to the Apple website or visit an Apple Store in person. You can also check with carriers and other retailers for availability and pricing. When you buy an iPhone, you’ll need to provide some personal and payment info, and you may be eligible for financing options or trade-in credits. The show reflects net monthly payments, so it’s easier to manage your budget.
Dynamic Island and TrueDepth Camera
The iPhone 16 has Dynamic Island, a sleek pill-shaped cutout that houses the front-facing TrueDepth camera and other sensors for Face ID. This design is not only beautiful but also functional.
The TrueDepth camera uses an array of sensors and cameras to create a 3D facial scan of your face, mapping the curves and planes of your face. This is for secure and accurate facial recognition, so you can unlock your phone and authenticate various actions.
But Dynamic Island isn’t just about security. It’s also for fun and interactive features like Animoji and Memoji, which allow you to create animated characters that mimic your facial expressions. Whether you’re using Face ID or sending an Animoji, Dynamic Island and the TrueDepth camera work together for a seamless and delightful experience.
5G and Emergency Features
Staying connected is key, and the iPhone 16 models have robust 5G. Using Qualcomm modems, they support mmWave and sub-6GHz in the US and sub-6GHz in other countries. When 5G isn’t available, the iPhone 16 models will switch to Gigabit LTE with 4×4 MIMO, so you’ll always be connected wherever you are.
Besides connectivity, the iPhone 16 models have essential emergency features. Emergency SOS via Satellite lets you call emergency services even when you’re not in an area with cellular coverage. The iPhone 16 models have Crash Detection, a feature that can detect if you’ve been in a severe car crash and automatically call emergency services. These features show Apple’s focus on safety and connectivity, so you can always count on the iPhone 16.
Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 3
Since 2016, Apple’s iPhone events have also featured a deep dive into the latest Apple Watch models, and this year will be no different. The Apple Watch is turning 10, so this will be a big one. But there are mixed reports about whether the next one will be called Apple Watch Series 10 or Series X to mark the occasion.
Bigger Screen and Redesigned Bands
Whatever the name, the next Apple Watch will have a bigger screen and be closer to Ultra. Rumors say Apple will drop the 41mm size and introduce a 49mm one.
The new band system will be a more divisive change. New connectors will make it easier to adjust the straps, but this might also mean older watch bands won’t be compatible with the new models, which could be a bummer for those who have a collection of existing bands.
New Chip and AI
As with most Apple Watch releases, a new chip will power the next models, but details are scarce. There are rumors that this chip will be designed for Apple’s push into AI (Apple Intelligence), but AI won’t be fully available until later updates. For now, Apple Intelligence will be for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users, with Apple Watch support coming later.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Tweaks
Two models, N217 and N218, are expected, and one of them could be the Apple Watch Ultra 3. However, according to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the Ultra 3 won’t have any major redesign this year but rather an iterative update. Expect small updates, not big new features.
Health Features and New Sensors Delayed
Health has always been a key feature of the Apple Watch, and work has been done on new sensors for tracking high blood pressure and sleep apnea. Unfortunately, these won’t be ready for this year’s models. Apple’s long-in-development glucose sensor has been in the works for nearly 10 years, so while it could be in the Series X, it’s not guaranteed.
Apple Watch SE Refresh
Besides the flagship models, there’s a good chance Apple will announce a new Apple Watch SE. The SE was last updated in 2022, so a refresh is due. Rumors say Apple will swap the aluminum casing for a rigid plastic shell, which will reduce the cost further. Currently priced at $250, the SE could be positioned to compete with the $200 Samsung Galaxy Watch FE, making it more competitive in the budget wearable space.
As with all things Apple, nothing is confirmed until the event, but this year’s lineup will include some changes across the board for the Apple Watch.
Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 is more than just a watch; it’s a powerful companion to the iPhone 16 to help you stay on top of your fitness and health goals. With built-in GPS, the Apple Watch Series 9 can track various workouts, including running, swimming, and cycling, and provide detailed metrics to help you improve your performance.
Health monitoring is a key feature of the Apple Watch Series 9, which includes a built-in electrocardiogram (ECG) app that can take an ECG reading. With this app, you can monitor your heart health and share important data with your doctor.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is also a utility watch. It can control music playback, receive notifications, and even answer questions with the built-in Siri assistant. Available in several models, including cellular versions, the Apple Watch Series 9 is designed to work with your iPhone 16 and your daily life.
Two New AirPods
Apple will announce two new AirPods during the It’s Glowtime event. According to rumors, these will replace the AirPods 2 and 3 and offer users an entry-level and mid-tier option.
USB-C Charging
The biggest update for both new AirPods will be the USB-C charging case, which will match the iPhone and the second-gen AirPods Pro. This is part of Apple’s broader USB-C transition across devices. The lower-priced version won’t have wireless charging, while the mid-tier will—a strategy Apple has followed with previous generations.
The case for the higher-end version could have a built-in speaker, so you could use Apple’s “Find My” feature to locate it—a nice touch.
Active Noise Cancellation for Mid-Tier AirPods
Both versions will have similar designs, but the mid-tier will have active noise cancellation (ANC), which is usually reserved for the AirPods Pro. What will differentiate the mid-tier AirPods from the Pro? We’ll have to wait and see how Apple positions these new earbuds. The new AirPods will also have an advanced audio mix capability to enhance video sound by adjusting voice clarity and background noise.
AirPods Max: An Update at Last?
There’s also a chance the AirPods Max, Apple’s premium over-ear headphones, will get an update. These high-end headphones, released four years ago, will get USB-C charging and improved noise cancellation, according to a last-minute report from Mark Gurman. This will bring the AirPods Max up to date with the latest tech in the AirPods line.
One More Thing: What Could Surprise Us?
Apple’s iPhone event doesn’t usually have a “one more thing,” but there’s a chance we could see a surprise related to one piece of hardware: the Mac mini. Rumors say Apple is working on a major redesign of the compact desktop, removing the USB-A port and making it the smallest desktop ever – possibly even as small as an Apple TV streaming box.
Two Mac mini’s
The new Mac mini will come in two versions: one with the standard M4 chip and one with the M4 Pro chip. The base model is supposed to start shipping to suppliers this month, so there’s a small chance Apple will mention it during the iPhone event. However, given the event is focused on iPhones and watches, the Mac mini will feel out of place. Like last year, Apple might save this for a Mac-only event later in the year.
iPad mini: Coming Soon?
There are also rumors of an iPad mini refresh, as Apple’s smallest tablet hasn’t been updated since 2021. According to Mark Gurman, the iPad mini is internally considered “constrained,” so a new model is likely coming. However, Apple doesn’t usually announce iPads during the iPhone event, so we might have to wait for a separate announcement.
Software Updates Galore
Finally, expect several software updates to be announced during the event. iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will get release dates, and watchOS 11 will be available for watches. Apple already previewed these during WWDC, but the iPhone event is a good time to confirm when they’ll be released. Also, the ability to use third-party apps with the iPhone 16’s new Camera Control button will enhance user functionality by using the device’s AI.
Good News for Beats Powerbeats Pro
One confirmed thing is that Apple will release a new version of the Beats Powerbeats Pro next year. Beats posted a teaser for the new earbuds on its Instagram account on September 4. The short video shows Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani swinging a bat while wearing the new earbuds, followed by the wordmarks “Powerbeats Pro 2” and “Coming 2025.”
A First Look at Design
The teaser doesn’t give us any specs, pricing, or a specific release date, but it does show a refined earbud design. If you want to see more, Billy Steele has a deeper dive. While the updated Powerbeats Pro won’t be announced during the iPhone event, we’ll probably see them in athletes and celebrities soon.
Experts Weigh In
Before the September 9 event, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg appeared on the Engadget Podcast with Cherlynn Low and Devindra Hardawar to talk about the latest Apple rumors. They covered the new camera button on the upcoming iPhone, screen size changes, the AirPods lineup, and the new Apple Watch models. They also talked about Apple’s future, from next year’s “super slim” iPhone to Apple’s plans for home robotics. They also discussed how the Apple Vision Pro will enhance photography and videography on the new iPhone 16 models by allowing users to capture spatial photos and videos to be viewed in 3D.