Apple’s highly anticipated "It's Glowtime" event is set to take place on September 9 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. With the iPhone 16 series leading the charge, alongside possible updates to the Apple Watch, AirPods, and perhaps a few surprises, it looks to be a major moment for the Cupertino-based company.
iPhone 16 and 16 Plus: A Familiar Yet Enhanced Experience
While the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are anticipated to retain a similar design to their iPhone 15 predecessors, several enhancements could make them stand out. For instance, the introduction of the Action Button, previously exclusive to Pro models, is rumored to be available across all iPhone 16 models. This new button is highly customizable and can serve functions ranging from launching the camera to activating Focus modes or triggering specific shortcuts.
New to the iPhone lineup is also a potential Capture Button, which might change how users interact with their device’s camera. Positioned on the side of the phone, this button could offer tactile feedback, allowing for varying pressure to focus, capture photos, or zoom in with simple gestures. Though this feature is not confirmed for all models, it could become a major selling point for photography enthusiasts.
The camera arrangement on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus is also set to shift, with rumors suggesting a return to a vertical dual-lens system. This configuration may also allow for compatibility with Apple's Vision Pro, expanding the possibilities for spatial video capture. Though there may not be any major changes to the primary camera, the Ultra Wide lens could see some improvement in aperture, enhancing low-light performance and enabling macro photography for the first time in a non-Pro iPhone model.
Apple may continue to use color-infused glass for the iPhone 16's back, but with a frosted finish. Color options are still up for debate, but a range of hues including green, pink, and blue seem to be contenders.
iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max: Bigger Screens and Advanced Features
Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models are set to introduce the largest displays in the iPhone lineup to date, with the Pro Max reportedly featuring a 6.9-inch screen. The bezels are expected to shrink even further, offering users more screen real estate without increasing the overall size of the device drastically. OLED technology improvements could result in brighter displays with better contrast, further enhancing the visual experience.
Camera enthusiasts might find the iPhone 16 Pro models particularly appealing due to expected improvements in the Ultra Wide lens, which could feature a 48-megapixel sensor using pixel-binning technology. This should lead to better low-light performance and clearer macro shots. Apple is also said to be exploring 4K video recording at 120 frames per second, which would double the current frame rate available on iPhone 15 models. Additionally, the Pro models might bring 8K video recording into the mix, though this feature is still speculative.
In terms of internal hardware, the Pro versions could feature a more advanced A18 chip with additional GPU cores, improving performance and enabling new AI-driven features. Apple’s focus on thermal management will continue, with rumors suggesting that the new devices may feature a graphene heatsink to address overheating issues.
Apple Watch Series 10: Thinner and More Capable
Marking a decade since the introduction of the Apple Watch, the Series 10 is rumored to offer a refined design with a thinner profile and larger display options. The updated 45mm and 49mm sizes could offer users a bit more screen without sacrificing comfort, thanks to a reduction in bezel size. Battery improvements are also expected, potentially pushing battery life beyond the current models.
Advanced health features could make their debut, with Apple reportedly working on new sensors that may allow the Apple Watch Series 10 to detect sleep apnea, expanding its already impressive sleep-tracking capabilities. These new sensors could also support future AI-driven health services, although full integration may not come immediately.
Apple Watch Ultra: A Bold New Color
The Apple Watch Ultra, Apple’s top-tier smartwatch built for extreme conditions, is rumored to receive a new color option. While a hardware refresh isn’t expected for this event, Apple may unveil a sleek new black finish for the Ultra 2 model. This color choice has been rumored since the original Ultra launch but never materialized.
The introduction of a black variant would offer a more subdued, professional look compared to the standard titanium finish currently available. While it doesn’t introduce any groundbreaking new features, the black color is a welcome addition for users who want a more versatile, everyday aesthetic in their rugged smartwatch.
This new color option, paired with the Ultra’s existing capabilities—like advanced GPS, water resistance up to 100 meters, and a large, bright display—will make the device even more appealing to those looking for both style and functionality in extreme environments.
AirPods Max: USB-C and Audio Enhancements
The AirPods Max, Apple’s high-end over-ear headphones, are due for a refresh, and while there won't be any radical design changes, a few important updates are expected. The most significant improvement will likely be the transition from the Lightning port to a USB-C port, aligning the AirPods Max with Apple's broader push to standardize USB-C across its product lineup. This change would not only streamline charging options but may also enhance data transfer capabilities, making it more convenient for users switching between Apple devices.
Beyond the port update, there are rumors of minor audio improvements aimed at delivering richer, more immersive sound quality. However, more advanced features such as Active Noise Cancellation upgrades or new sensors are not anticipated for this iteration. The aesthetic side may also get some attention, with Apple rumored to introduce new color options for the AirPods Max.
AirPods 4: A Hybrid of Familiar Designs
Apple’s next-generation AirPods, likely to be unveiled during the event, are anticipated to offer a blend of designs from the current AirPods and the AirPods Pro, with shorter stems and an updated fit. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) may also be included in at least one version of the AirPods 4, signaling a significant upgrade over the AirPods 3. Users can also look forward to an improved charging case, now expected to include a USB-C port and a speaker for Find My functionality.
Longer-term features, like hearing aid capabilities and in-ear hearing tests, are on the horizon, though these may not be available at launch.
New iPad mini and iPad 11th gen: Not Likely
While much of the event will focus on the iPhone and Apple Watch, rumors about new iPads or Mac devices have been swirling. However, these products may not be part of the September showcase. Instead, Apple could save them for an October event, especially for models like the iPad mini 7 and iPad 11.
Apple's "It's Glowtime" event will take place tomorow at 10am PDT and will be availble to watch on YouTube, the Apple TV app, or on apple.com.
