We can always count on Apple to announce the newest iPhone model every September. This year’s event is almost ready; The company is expected to unveil its iPhone 14s lineup as well as at least a couple of new Apple Watches during a live presentation this week. We should also see some software announcements, and maybe even some other accessories and hardware details.
The event starts on Wednesday, September 7th at 10:00am Pacific Time, 1:00pm Eastern. You can watch it live right here on this page, or on Apple’s events website and the company’s YouTube channel. You can also watch it on any Apple TV or streaming box; just go to the Apple TV+ app to find the live stream. When you open the app on Wednesday morning, the event should be prominently displayed at the top of the page. This method works even if you don’t subscribe to Apple’s streaming service.
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As usual, WIRED will also be live blogging Apple events during the Wednesday morning show. We’ll be posting up-to-the-minute details and real-time analysis of what’s happening at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California, where the event is being held.
Apple has been doing these September events consistently for a decade, ever since it launched the iPhone 5 in 2012. By now, they’re smooth, polished showcases that prepare the Apple faithful for the slate of releases autumn of the company. This consistency has also made ads easier to predict. As with each of these streaming infomercials, rumors and leaks have already spilled what is likely to be announced. Here’s what to expect.
iPhones 14
The sure-fire centerpiece of the showcase will be a new line of iPhones, likely called the iPhone 14 (unless Apple goes ahead and names the phones differently). Rumors point to four new iPhone models, each with slightly different specs. Expect variations on Apple’s previous naming conventions, with Pro or Max suffixes attached to higher-spec devices. Interestingly, there are rumors online that Apple might ditch the smaller Mini iteration of its iPhone lineup, instead focusing on 6.1- and 6.7-inch models this time around.
Some design tweaks are coming to the new phones. Apple could do away with its (in)famous notch at the top of iPhone screens, instead replacing it with a Google Pixel-like hole along the top edge. The fancier models may have titanium bezels and always-on displays. On the inside, Apple is expected to update the phones with its home-grown A16 chips.
Also a given for these September events: release dates for upcoming iOS and iPadOS releases will be revealed. Apple will also highlight some of the new features coming to the next versions of its mobile software, iOS 16 and iPadOS 16.
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple is likely to announce at least two updated models of its Apple Watch. The standard model Watch 8 should be a modest update to the design of the Series 7, but the big change could come in the form of the rumored “rugged” Apple Watch launch. This device could have a more robust and durable design with improved weather resistance and a shatterproof display.
Last year, The Wall Street Journal reported that upcoming features in the Apple Watch line could include the ability to read your skin temperature and detect if you’ve been in a car accident. Apple Watch battery life has always been less than normal, but now there may be a chance that each full charge will last more than a day on the Pro models. It’s unclear whether these features apply to both the regular Watch 8 and the possible rugged edition.
AR/VR headset
Sorry, but the chances are slim that Apple will say anything about its long-awaited, but still only rumored, AR/VR headset at Wednesday’s media event. A mixed reality device is almost certainly in the works, given that news broke this week that Apple has filed for several trademarks of the term reality, and is likely to stick that mark on its earphones. But it’s unlikely to be announced this month; It is likely scheduled for release sometime next year.
Of course, you never know. These product events have started to feel very classy but samey over the years, so Apple could be inspired to inject some excitement into this one and spark something new.