Today Apple announced its ‘Far Out’ special event. As was rumoured, the event will take place on the 7th of September and will feature a range of new products. Let’s explore what Apple might have in store for us.
iPhone
As is a September tradition, we can expect to see Apple unveil the next generation iPhone. Like last year, four models will be unveiled.
iPhone 14
This time the iPhone 14 is expected to be the entry-level model in the range, sporting the same 6.1-inch screen as its predecessor, the iPhone 13. The device is expected to feature an enhanced version of the A15 chip, perhaps an ‘A15X’ and a much-improved selfie camera with autofocus. But of Apple’s new devices, this one is perhaps the one we know the least about. It sounds like a very modest upgrade at best but that might just be due to fewer than usual leaks. Expect pricing for this model to remain unchanged from the iPhone 13.
iPhone 14 Max
Replacing Apple’s smallest phone, the iPhone 13 mini, Apple seems to be poised to go in the opposite direction and unveil a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 model. According to supply chain analysts, the iPhone 12 and 13 mini underperformed against Apple’s sales expectations. The tech giant may be hoping to increase sales by offering a larger, non-pro model instead. This device will likely be priced at a $100/£100 premium over the iPhone 14.
iPhone 14 Pro
Sporting a 6.1-inch display, the iPhone 14 Pro is expected to see some major upgrades. First, Apple will eliminate the notch by moving to a hole punch dewing for the camera. Users will reclaim some valuable screen real estate as a result. Second, a brand new camera system with a 48-megapixel sensor. Four times as many pixels as the iPhone 13. We can also expect to see an always-on display thanks to a new panel that can refresh at just 1hz and all the way up to 120hz. Given the current economic climate and the new bells and whistles, expect a price hike of $100 compared to the iPhone 13 Pro.
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Keeping feature parity for the most part with its smaller sibling, the iPhone 14 Pro Max will continue to enjoy a larger 6.7-inch display. And given the device’s larger size, and longer battery life. As with the iPhone 14 Pro, expect to see a $100 price hike compared to the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Apple Watch
We’re likely to see more options than ever this year as Apple will introduce three new models of its wearable.
Apple Watch Series 8
Retaining the same updated design from the Series 7, the Series 8 will sport a new body temperature sensor. How this will work remains to the seen with some analysts suggesting the sensor will not provide a precision reading. Instead, the device will be able to let you know if it thinks you have a high temperature and may have a fever. The Series 8 will also contain an S8 chip though some claim it will offer little in the way of performance gains.
Much like the iPhone 14, it seems that the ‘standard’ Apple Watch will be a bit underwhelming. But again that could just be due to limited information in leaks this year. The device will ship in the same two size options as Series 7, 41mm and 45mm. Pricing is expected to be similar if not the same to its predecessor.
Apple Watch SE 2
Apple’s more affordable Apple Watch SE remains a hit. However, the ageing Apple Watch Series 3 does not. Apple will finally kill off the Series 3 and replace both it and the original SE with a 2022 Apple Watch SE. Don’t expect to see too many changes save for a faster processor and perhaps an always-on display. Pricing should remain steady.
Apple Watch Pro
The big headline will be the Apple Watch Pro. Apple is rumoured to announce a more rugged, larger Apple Watch. It will be made with more durable materials, sport a larger 2” display, a larger battery and perhaps some additional sensors. The device is expected to come in at least a Titanium finish with other case options perhaps to be announced at the event. We don’t have any previous model to price it against but perhaps the best comparison is with the Titanium Apple Watch Edition. Look for pricing around £899/$899 or possibly as high as $1000.
AirPods Pro
It’s been almost three years since Apple introduced AirPods Pro. And we’re likely to see a new model arrive at the event. While we haven’t seen any leaked designs, there is plenty of information regarding rumoured features.
- A new design similar to Beats Fit Pro with a hook mechanism replacing the stem
- Support for Bluetooth LE 5.2 to enable lossless audio
- A new case with a speaker to enhance compatibility with Find My
- Possibly heart rate sensors or some other kind of health sensors
Summary
There’s a lot to unpack here. And as is tradition, rumours and speculation based on the event are rife. The space-themed invite has sent Twitter wild with suggestions ranging from Astrophotography to Satellite calling. But we’ll have to wait until the 7th to see what Apple really has in store. Here is a link to the live stream or you can watch via the Apple TV app. Stay tuned.
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