In early September 2024, Apple unveiled a wave of new devices during its latest presentation. The show highlighted fresh smartphones, smartwatches, and audio gear, with updates that promise faster performance, brighter displays, and smarter features. The following article distills the key takeaways from the event and what readers can expect in the near term.
Apple Watch Series 10 smartwatch
The newest Apple Watch is notably slimmer than its predecessor, measuring just 9.7 mm in thickness. The display remains a two-inch OLED panel, but it now shines 40% brighter than before. Powering the device is the S10 chip, which incorporates four Neural Engine cores to boost on-device processing for health metrics, notifications, and apps. Built-in speakers enable music playback without wired headphones and hands-free voice conversations. Among the standout health-oriented improvements is the ability to monitor breathing irregularities and sleep apnea more accurately, signaling Apple’s ongoing focus on wearable wellness. The case material shifts to titanium for enhanced durability and a premium feel. Price for the base Apple Watch Series 10 lands around $400, reflecting the combination of lightweight design and advanced sensors.
There is also a higher-end variant: the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which pairs with an exclusive Hermes band option for about $800. Both models are slated to go on sale on September 20, signaling a broader rollout for Apple’s premium wearables lineup.
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AirPods 4 Headphones
The AirPods 4 introduce a new H2 chip that personalizes sound for each user. They adapt automatically to different environments, include a mode optimized for street conversations, and offer a hands-free way to answer calls with a simple nod. The result is a more immersive listening experience with the potential for deeper bass and crisper highs.
The standard AirPods 4 are priced at $130, while the upgraded version with active noise cancellation is $170. The previously premium AirPods Pro lineup is noted for its ANC capability, ready to complement the new models. AirPods Max cushions see a price tag around $549, and the brand also announced AirPods Pro 2 alongside the new family. All versions are planned to be available on September 20.
iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 marks a shift to aerospace-grade aluminum for its chassis. The display gains a Ceramic Shield layer with improved scratch and drop resistance, now claimed to be 50% stronger than the iPhone 15. A pair of new physical buttons debuts: Camera Control, which gives direct access to photo and video capture, and the customizable Action button for a range of user-defined functions. After recording video, users can adjust audio for a more cinematic feel without leaving the app.
The phone also features a six-core Apple A18 processor and dual rear cameras—one 48 MP and one 12 MP—that can shoot 4K video at 120 frames per second. A new slo-mo mode is supported, and Apple has introduced a prominent artificial intelligence system designed to tailor functions to individual preferences. Early testing will begin in October, and there is talk of a future integration that could enable on-device object recognition with contextual information, akin to a real-time knowledge assistant. Initially, English support is live, with plans to add German, French, and Chinese later in 2024. Details about Apple Intelligence and its broader use were teased in a separate coverage piece.
The base iPhone 16 starts at $800, with a Plus version at $900. A larger 6.3-inch iPhone 16 Pro and a 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max are also offered, priced at $1,000 and $1,200 respectively. The Pro models come with the A18Pro processor, a titanium body, and upgraded microphones designed to deliver improved surround-sound capture.
Did you enjoy the Apple conference, or were you hoping for more surprises? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion about which devices fit best with different lifestyles.
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Note: Information reflects the keynote highlights and product briefs as observed at the event. Readers may wish to confirm regional pricing and availability in their markets.