Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 16 event is set for September 9 at 1PM ET, marking one of the most significant tech events of the autumn. The event will be live-blogged and can be watched on Apple’s website or YouTube. The primary focus will be on the new iPhone 16 lineup, but it’s also expected that Apple will reveal updates to the Apple Watch and possibly a new version of the AirPods.
The iPhone 16 series is anticipated to feature four models: the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. This naming convention mirrors the iPhone 15 lineup, dismissing earlier rumors about an “iPhone Ultra” label. The Pro models may receive slightly larger screens, with the Pro increasing to 6.3 inches and the Pro Max to 6.9 inches. New color options could include a return of rose gold and a new “gold-colored titanium” hue.
On the hardware front, the iPhone 16 will likely include the upgraded A18 chip, focusing on iterative improvements rather than revolutionary changes. The Pro models are expected to have enhanced performance, with the base RAM set at 8GB. Additionally, the Action Button introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro may become standard on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, allowing users to customize its functions.
Apple Announces September 9 Event for iPhone 16, Apple Watch Updates, and Possible AirPods Refresh
A new camera button on the Pro and Pro Max models is rumored to operate similarly to a DSLR button, enabling autofocus and photo capture with varying pressures. This feature aims to enhance the camera experience, which traditionally receives a significant upgrade with each new iPhone. The base iPhone 16 models might see a redesign in their camera module, potentially shifting to a vertical layout.
iOS 18 will be the new operating system for the iPhone 16, offering a customizable Control Center, Home Screen, and RCS support. However, Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI integration, will be delayed until iOS 18.1, expected in October. This means initial users of the iPhone 16 won’t have immediate access to AI features.
The Apple Watch is also expected to be a highlight, with rumors pointing to either the Series 10 or Series X. This new watch may feature a larger 49mm screen and a redesigned band system, though it might render older bands incompatible. The upcoming Apple Watch will likely include a new chip but may not see significant AI integration immediately.
There are indications that two new Apple Watches will be announced, possibly including the Apple Watch Ultra 3, which might receive only an iterative refresh. New health monitoring features, such as sensors for high blood pressure and sleep apnea, are expected but might not be ready for this release. A new version of the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE might also be introduced, potentially using a rigid plastic shell to reduce costs.
Regarding AirPods, two new versions of the standard earbuds, AirPods 4, are rumored to be in the pipeline. These are likely to feature USB-C cases, with the mid-tier model possibly supporting wireless charging and active noise cancellation. No updates are expected for the high-end AirPods Pro at this event, and the AirPods Max, which has not been updated for four years, may not see a refresh either.
There is speculation about a potential “one last thing” surprise involving a redesigned Mac mini, which might be the company’s smallest desktop computer yet. This could include versions with the standard M4 chip and the more powerful M4 Pro chip. However, given the event’s focus, it may be more likely that Apple will hold a separate event for Mac announcements.
Finally, an iPad mini refresh is also anticipated, though it’s uncommon for Apple to announce iPads during its iPhone events. Alongside hardware updates, iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and watchOS 11 are expected to be detailed, with their official release dates likely being announced.
