Apple just wrapped up its biggest event of the year at its headquarters in Cupertino, California, and it did not dissapoint, marking the tech giant’s advance into generative AI. Major upgrades across the iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods were unveiled at the event, with the new Apple Intelligence as the star of the event this year.
Here’s everything Apple just announced: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, Apple Watch, AirPods 4 and more.
iPhone 16 and 16 Pro:
At the center of the event was the debut of the iPhone 16 series, which includes the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, and the Pro models. While there was no price increase compared to last year’s models, starting at $799 for the iPhone 16 and $999 for the Pro, Apple delivered substantial improvements.
One of the key new features in all models is the Action Button, a customizable button that simplifies tasks by offering gesture-based commands. Another standout feature is the Camera Control button, which offers tactile control for taking photos and videos, while also allowing users to interact with AI tools.
The new A18 chip introduces Apple Intelligence. AI now assists with photo organization, notification prioritization, and text-based commands for Siri. Apple also introduces improvements in camera such as the 48MP Fusion camera, offering four times the resolution of the iPhone 15, better low-light performance, and even macro photography capabilities. They have also included a 48MP Ultra-Wide camera and a 5x optical zoom on the Pro Max. These models also support video recording in Dolby Vision, the highest quality video available on any smartphone. The iPhone Pro and Pro Max have larger display screens (6.3” and 6.9”).
The new iPhone 16 comes in a range of new colors such as: ultramarine, teal, pink, black and white.
The new iPhone 16 Pro comes in desert titanium, white titanium, natural titanium and black titanium.
Preorders for the new iPhones start on Friday and launch on September 20th.
iPhone 16, source: Apple.com
Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 10
Next, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 10, with a focus on health metrics and fitness tracking.
Apple Watch Ultra 2:
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is built for extreme sports and outdoor adventures, offering superior durability, battery life, and advanced tracking features.
Key Features:
1. The Ultra 2 is a rugged, outdoor-focused smartwatch with a more robust design. It features a new 49mm black titanium case, making it more durable for extreme conditions. It's water resistant up to 100 meters, and features scuba tracking. It’s aimed at adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. It boasts the brightest display Apple has ever produced, with up to 3,000 nits of brightness, ensuring readability even in harsh sunlight. This is significantly brighter than the Series 10.
3. The Ultra 2 offers an extended battery life of 36 hours, which can extend up to 72 hours in low-power mode.
4. Precision GPS: Improved GPS accuracy, especially for remote locations, making it perfect for adventurers.
5. Starting at $799, available for pre-order now and launching September 20th.
Source: Apple.com
Apple Watch Series 10:
The Series 10 has the largest screen and is the thinnest watch ever made by Apple.
Key Features:
1. The series 10 has the largest display and is the thinnest watch Apple has ever made.
2. The Series 10 offers a 24-hour battery life under regular use, which can be extended in low-power mode, but it doesn’t match the Ultra 2's longevity.
3. Health and Fitness: Like the Ultra 2, the Series 10 tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, ECG, and sleep. However, it lacks the specialized adventure-focused features, such as diving modes or advanced GPS.
4. Customization: The Series 10 is available in a wider variety of colors and bands, making it more customizable for daily wear and fashion, whereas the Ultra 2 is limited in its rugged, athletic-focused design.
5. Starting at $399, available for pre-order now and launching September 20th.
Source: Apple.com
AirPods
The AirPods 4 and AirPods Max 2 made their debut at the event, each featuring significant upgrades. The AirPods 4 now come in two variants, one with Active Noise Cancellation and another without, giving users more choice. Both models feature a USB-C charging port and improved Find My integration, making it easier to locate misplaced AirPods.
The AirPods Pro 2 received a health-focused update, introducing new features for hearing protection.
The AirPods Max generally focuses on introducing new colors and noise cancellation.
The AirPods 4 (starting at $129), AirPods Pro 2 (starting at $249), and AirPods Max (starting at $549) are available for pre-order and launch September 20th.
Airpods Max, source: Apple.com
The iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and AirPods lineup introduce features that make everyday tasks easier. From photography to fitness, Apple has something for everyone in this latest lineup. As AI becomes a bigger part of the Apple ecosystem, users can expect to have a more smooth and personalized experience in the future.
