Apple’s next generation of iPhones are right around the corner, with its annual fall event expected to arrive on Tuesday, September 12. It’s the biggest Apple event of the year – although WWDC23 provided strong competition – and we’re likely to see much more than just iPhone announcements. So what else is Apple planning alongside its flagship upgrades?
iPhone 15 & iPhone 15 Pro
We’ve seen all kinds of rumors about the upcoming iPhone lineup, but chances are strong it’ll follow in the footsteps of the past few years, with four distinct handsets to choose from: iPhones 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max.
Expect to see the usual iterative upgrades to the processing chips and cameras, plus the introduction of USB-C in place of the Lightning port. Beyond that (if you believe the rumors) we’ll see titanium frames and periscope lenses on the Pro models, while the regular version will inherit some of last year’s Pro-level exclusives like Dynamic Island.
There’s also talk of a new ‘Action’ button for a freshly-named iPhone Ultra, though we’re less confident about that one. If not now, maybe next year.
Apple Watch Series 9
This looks to be a fairly straightforward upgrade on last year’s Series 8, focusing on performance over flashy new features. It’ll be an improvement, sure, but nothing to write home about. However…
Apple Watch Ultra 2
More interestingly, Apple’s high-end smartwatch could be refreshed. Apple Watch Ultra is bigger, beefier, and better for outdoorsy types and those who like to have the best of the best. Again, don’t expect too many groundbreaking new features, but we’d expect to see more changes made to a device still in its infancy as Apple works out the kinks of its $799+ behemoth.
iOS 17 and more
Apple’s fall event usually signals the release of the annual software upgrades, most notably iOS 17. New features including Contact Posters, Standby, Offline Maps, and more make it an exciting release, whether or not you’ll be picking up a new iPhone.
After a summer of beta testing, the free update should be ready for the big time – along with new versions of iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS.
Apple Vision Pro
Apple’s upcoming mixed-reality headset almost broke the internet following its announcement at WWDC back in June, and with a 2024 release date looming Apple may choose to keep momentum going for the $3499 device with another brief demonstration of its capabilities.
Accessory updates
The iPhone’s switch to USB-C will surely necessitate a big switch-up of official cables and accessories. From what we’ve seen, that’s likely to include a new charging cable that’s longer, faster, and color-matched to iPhone, plus an optional Thunderbolt cable for super-fast data transfer.
It’s almost certain we’ll also see new iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands in some new colors and finishes, plus a USB-C variant of the AirPods Pro charging case.