Vision Pro
Vision Pro marks Apple’s first foray into Mixed Reality headsets. It aims to redefine the so‑called mainframe market, currently led by Meta with its Quest devices. Vision Pro brings eye and hand tracking, high‑resolution displays, and an external display that shows the portion of the wearer’s face covered by the headset.
Market commentators see Vision Pro as a bold concept with the potential to reshape how people interact with their devices, though some tech enthusiasts remain skeptical. The expectation is that devices with mainframe capabilities could shift the balance away from traditional smartphones in the long term.
The device was anticipated for release in early 2024, initially in the United States. Several factors influenced this approach. First, production challenges limit the number of units Apple can realistically ship. Even in the most optimistic forecast, annual sales are unlikely to exceed a few hundred thousand units, far below iPhone volumes in a single day.
Second, Apple appears to be testing the market strategy for Vision Pro. Individuals with vision impairments may require prescription lenses and different seal sizes for a comfortable fit. Rumors suggest initial distribution will occur through offline Apple stores by appointment for consultations.
Early 2024 could bring additional presentations where Apple elaborates on Vision Pro features and variants.
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max and SE 4
The upcoming iPhone family is among the year’s most anticipated releases. Analysts suggest the basic models, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, will offer modest upgrades centered on the processor, with a likely 60 Hz display remaining common in the segment. Leaked prototypes hint at a refreshed camera block on the 16 and 16 Plus and introduce a Capture Button for quick video recording, potentially extending to other models in the line.
The 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max are expected to draw more attention. Rumors point to a touch‑based control surface with haptic feedback as a substitute for physical keys, a concept that has already shown promise on other Apple devices. While some outlets suggest reduced novelty in design, the Pro models may still introduce meaningful refinements.
Renderings circulating in media circles show front camera holes and Face ID sensors on the screen, though these visuals are considered prototypes and may not reflect final production. Apple’s Dynamic Island appears likely to remain a distinctive feature of the lineup.
Cooling improvements are a focal point after reports in 2023 that the A17 Pro chip caused noticeable device warmth. Speculation points to potential graphene cooling solutions and a metal frame around the battery to aid heat dissipation and durability.
Details about the iPhone SE 4 remain scarce. The year hints at a budget option that preserves compact dimensions, with expectations for USB‑C and a single rear camera. Pricing thresholds will be decisive for success, especially if the model undercuts mainline iPhones.
iPad family updates
The coming year is expected to bring fresh options across the iPad lineup. After a period without major updates, analysts predict new iterations across iPad Pro, Air, and mini lines, with OLED screens possibly appearing on the Pro line.
iPad Air could see a dramatic redesign with two size variants in the 10.9 and 12.9 inch ranges. The Air family would continue to use IPS panels, while an upgraded M2 chip could power the refreshed devices alongside other performance gains in the ecosystem.
The iPad mini is anticipated to enter its seventh generation, maintaining USB‑C connectivity and potentially integrating an A series processor from recent iPhone generations. Color options might expand, and display refresh rate improvements could be modest.
In the base iPad category, a broader update is expected. Rethinking the product line could lead to a new branding, easing consumer navigation. While exact specs remain under wraps, a newer processor and USB‑C are likely components of the refresh.
Apple Watch X
The wearable lineup may welcome a significant turning point with an all‑new Apple Watch Series X, a naming change that mirrors past rebranding moves. The design could become notably thinner with a more angular case and magnetic bands that slide on, freeing space for a larger battery.
Health sensors get upgrades as well. A blood pressure monitoring feature is expected to debut, using pulse wave technology to estimate readings through arterial sensors. In early stages, the focus will be on spotting obvious anomalies and trends that warrant medical attention.
AirPods 4 and AirPods Max 2
Audio wearables are also in the spotlight for 2024. Apple is rumored to release two versions of AirPods 4, positioning them as a middle ground between current models and Pro variants. The redesign aims for a more secure fit while maintaining a familiar form.
The updated case is said to include built‑in speakers and a USB‑C port for charging, with the Find My feature signaling via USB‑C instead of Lightning. The higher‑end AirPods 4 variant may introduce active noise cancellation to broaden access to premium sound without the Pro price tag. A hearing aid mode could expand the devices into assistive tech territory.
The AirPods Max 2 is expected to surface, with design tweaks to the headband and a USB‑C charger. A new left/right ear detection system aims to prevent mixups when worn, addressing a long‑standing usability issue with the first generation.