Cupertino, California – On Monday, Apple Inc. will hold its most critical event of the year, unveiling its latest innovations, including the highly anticipated iPhone 16 lineup and a groundbreaking new artificial intelligence platform. The event, starting at 10 a.m. PST at Apple’s headquarters, will introduce major updates to Apple’s core products, setting the stage for the company’s ambitious AI future.
Apple’s unusual decision to hold the event on a Monday—Sept. 9—allows it to avoid clashes with major events the following day, including a U.S. presidential debate and a pivotal ruling by the European Commission on Apple’s $14 billion tax case with Ireland.
The iPhone 16: What to expect
As expected, the iPhone 16 series will take center stage with four new models: the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. While changes to the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are relatively minor—faster processors, 8GB of memory (up from 6GB), and support for spatial video recording via vertically stacked cameras—the Pro models boast more significant upgrades.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will introduce larger displays, increasing to 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively, with thinner bezels. A standout feature is the addition of a touch-sensitive shutter button, designed to mimic the feel of a DSLR camera, giving users more precision and control when taking photos or videos. This feature, along with improvements in AI and camera technology, will be one of the major selling points of the new lineup.
Other upgrades include the Pro models’ move to a 48-megapixel ultrawide lens, a speedier neural engine optimized for AI, and enhanced zoom capabilities. Aesthetic changes include a new gold titanium option for the Pro models, replacing last year’s blue, while the non-Pro versions will get fresh color palettes with shades of green, pink, and blue.
Apple intelligence: A new AI frontier
In addition to hardware, Apple will introduce Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI tools aimed at expanding the capabilities of its products. The centerpiece will be an enhanced Siri, which will debut with a new, more interactive interface. While the AI features won’t fully match the sophistication of rivals just yet, the technology will focus on summarizing messages and notifications, marking the beginning of Apple’s long-term vision for AI integration.
Despite delays in some advanced features, Apple’s emphasis on AI during Monday’s event underscores its push to become a dominant player in generative AI, a space already occupied by competitors like Google and Microsoft.
AirPods: A leap in audio and health
Apple’s popular AirPods will also see updates. The company is set to release two new models replacing the second and third-generation AirPods, both adopting the design of the AirPods Pro. The mid-tier model will feature enhanced noise cancellation, a new speaker-enabled case for easier tracking, and USB-C charging.
Apple is also making strides in hearing health with features like hearing tests and potential hearing aid replacements, though these enhancements may be delayed until next year.
Apple Watch: A milestone update
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Apple Watch, and the company will introduce updates across the lineup, including the SE, Series 10, and Ultra 3 models. The Series 10, in particular, will feature a redesigned case and larger display sizes. However, while the AI advancements seen in other products will be limited on the watch, users can expect a new sleep apnea detection feature.
Apple continues to face challenges, including the absence of the blood-oxygen sensor, which was removed due to an ongoing lawsuit with Masimo Corp.
Beyond Monday: What’s next for Apple
Though the September event will focus on iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watch, the company has more in store. MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac models with M4 chips are expected in a follow-up event, likely in October. Additionally, updates to the iPhone SE, AirTag, and iPads—including a new iPad mini—are on the horizon for 2024.
With the unveiling of its new products and AI platform, Apple hopes to re-energize its customer base and prove to investors that it’s ready to lead the next generation of consumer technology.
