Apple's event introduced several new products and features.
Here are the key announcements:
- Models: The new lineup includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- Performance: The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are powered by the A18 Bionic chip, while the Pro models utilize the A18 Pro chip. These chips are based on Arm's latest V9 architecture, enhancing performance significantly.
- Camera: The iPhone 16 features a new 48MP Fusion camera and introduces an Action button for quick access to camera controls.
- Design: The iPhone 16 comes with a new ceramic shield glass, which is claimed to be 50% tougher than previous generations.
- Display: The iPhone 16 has a 6.1-inch display, while the 16 Plus offers a 6.7-inch display with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits.
- Colors: New color options include Pink, Ultramarine, White, Black, and Teal.
- Availability: Pre-orders start on September 13, with sales beginning on September 20.
- Features: The Apple Watch Series 10 is touted as the thinnest model yet, featuring a larger display and faster charging capabilities. It includes advanced health monitoring features such as sleep apnea detection.
- Design: The watch is available in a new Black Titanium finish for the Apple Watch Ultra 2, aimed at athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Software: Both watches run on the new watchOS 11, which enhances their functionality and health tracking capabilities
- Design: The new AirPods 4 feature a comfortable design that accommodates various ear shapes, with improvements in audio performance and the addition of Active Noise Cancellation.
- Functionality: AirPods Pro 2 can now function as a clinical-grade hearing aid, enhancing accessibility for users with hearing impairments.
- Charging: The AirPods 4 now come with a USB-C charging case and are available in new colors: Black, Blue, Purple, and Orange.
- Pricing: AirPods 4 are priced at $129 and $179, with pre-orders starting today.
iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence
Apple also announced iOS 18, which will roll out on September 16 and be compatible with iPhones starting from the iPhone XR and SE (second gen). iOS 18 includes Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI features that will be deeply integrated into the operating system, harnessing the power of Apple silicon to simplify and accelerate everyday tasks while protecting user privacy.
Some of the key Apple Intelligence features include:
- Writing Tools: Allows users to refine their words by rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text nearly everywhere they write.
- Image Playground: Enables users to create playful images in moments.
- Image Wand: Turns rough sketches into delightful images by creating images using context from the surrounding area.
- Better Siri! After a decade of nonsensical Siri, we get an AI-powered one.
- The Camera Control, the new button on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, can launch what Apple calls “visual intelligence” — basically a reverse image search combined with some text recognition. Google Lens already does that. Android users would find nothing new.
