Apple’s latest event showcased the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods, focusing on refinement rather than radical redesigns. Here’s a breakdown of today’s announcements.
iPhone 16 Series: New Features and Updates
The iPhone 16 lineup isn’t a complete overhaul of its predecessors but includes several noteworthy enhancements. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus introduce a new vertical camera module layout, shifting from the diagonal arrangement found in earlier models. One of the standout features is the introduction of the Apple Action Button, first seen on the iPhone 15 Pro. This button replaces the long-used call repetition function and can be reprogrammed for various tasks. Whether it’s initiating a call or launching the camera, users can now customize the Action Button to suit their needs.
Additionally, all iPhone 16 models come with a new press camera button for easier picture-taking. Instead of relying on the regular close camera button for rescan, this new feature allows users to take photos or videos with just a quick press. The iPhone 16 Pro models also enhance the zoom experience—simply swipe your finger on the touchscreen to adjust zoom levels. Pressing firmly lets you take a photo or start recording video.
For the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, Apple has introduced larger displays. The iPhone 16 Pro now sports a 6.3-inch screen, while the Pro Max has a 6.9-inch display, both slightly larger than their predecessors. The 5x optical zoom is another feature exclusive to the smaller iPhone 16 Pro model, offering more versatility for photography enthusiasts.
The pricing remains in line with expectations: the iPhone 16 starts at $799, the iPhone 16 Plus at $899, the iPhone 16 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1,199. Pre-orders will begin shortly, and the devices are expected to be available by spring 2020.
Apple Watch Series 10: A Decade of Innovation
Celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Apple Watch, the company unveiled the Apple Watch Series 10. The new model builds on the foundation set by the Series 9 but includes a larger display, now 30 pixels bigger, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The Series 10 also borrows elements from the Apple Watch Ultra, offering a curved OLED display with a wider viewing angle. This makes the screen more visible, even when viewed from the side.
Apple has introduced a sleek jet-black variant for the Series 10, treated with silicon nanoparticles to enhance light reflection. Among the improvements is a more efficient battery, capable of delivering up to 80 full charges in a year with a 30-battery charge. Although specific details about battery life remain scarce, the enhancements promise a more convenient user experience.
One of the most notable features of the Series 10 is its integration with watchOS 11, particularly the new two-way activity functionality. This feature allows users to engage in daily exercises and other physical activities with real-time tracking, made possible by the improved accelerometer. Additionally, while blood pressure monitoring isn’t available this year, the feature remains a possibility for future updates, as the company continues to navigate patent disputes surrounding blood pressure technology.
Apple has also enhanced the fitness capabilities of the Apple Watch, particularly in water-related activities. New marine-themed watch faces allow users to monitor their performance during swimming or kayaking sessions. Moreover, the Apple Watch Ultra 2, available alongside the Series 10, is tailored specifically for water sports and includes a Milanese loop designed for durability in aquatic environments.
Pre-orders for the Series 10 start today at $399, with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 priced at $799. Both models will be available for shipping by February 20.
New AirPods and Updates to AirPods Max
Apple also unveiled its latest generation of AirPods, introducing two versions of the AirPods 4. The standard model, priced at $129, does not include active noise cancellation (ANC). However, for those seeking enhanced sound quality, the $179 version includes ANC. Apple has further refined the user experience with spatial sound personalization, allowing for seamless integration with Siri to control music and make calls effortlessly.
A significant update is the new charging case, which now supports both USB-C and wireless charging for the ANC model. The battery case delivers up to 30 hours of use before needing a recharge, promising convenience for users on the go.
Apple has also refreshed its AirPods Max line, introducing several new color options such as blue, purple, and light pink. These headphones now charge via USB-C, aligning with Apple’s broader move toward universal charging solutions. While the pricing remains unchanged at $549, the new colors provide a fresh aesthetic for those looking to upgrade.
Although Apple has not released a new version of the AirPods Pro, it has updated the AirPods Pro 2 with enhanced hearing protection, notes NIX Solutions. The new feature reduces decibel levels in loud environments, making these earbuds suitable for use as earplugs. Apple also introduced a clinical hearing test and over-the-counter hearing aid certification, enabling the AirPods Pro 2 to function as hearing aids. This innovation is poised to revolutionize the growing over-the-counter hearing aid market.
Pre-orders for the new AirPods are available now, with shipping beginning on February 20. We’ll keep you updated on the latest news surrounding these exciting new releases.
Siri and Apple Intelligence Updates
Apple also provided a glimpse of the future of Siri and its broader AI initiatives. While these features won’t be available immediately with the launch of iOS 18, they are expected to arrive in the upcoming iOS 18.1 update.
One of the most exciting new features is the ability to use Siri for visual searches. By pointing your iPhone’s camera at a business, restaurant, or event flyer, Siri will provide additional information such as menus, hours of operation, or calendar reminders. This functionality is comparable to Google Lens and signals Apple’s commitment to enhancing its AI-powered productivity tools.
Another notable update is iOS 18’s support for Rich Communication Services (RCS). This modern texting standard will bridge the gap between iPhone and Android users, making cross-platform messaging more seamless. iOS 18 will be available for download on September 16, introducing a wide range of customization options, including the ability to move and lock apps with Face ID.