How to watch Apple “It’s Glowtime” event
Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event is set for today, i.e., Monday, September 9, at 10:30 PM IST (10:00 AM PDT). The event will be live streamed on Apple.com, Apple TV app, and company YouTube channel.
You can also tune in at www. timesofindia.com/technology for live updates throughout the event.
The new ‘AI’ iPhones: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro models
Like the last few years, the iPhone 16 series is expected to have a total of four models – iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The vanilla models – iPhone 16 and 16 Plus – are expected to be minor upgrades, featuring a new pill-shaped camera island and an Action Button replacing the Silent Switch. They’ll likely retain the same screen sizes and 60Hz refresh rate. The A18 Bionic chip will enable AI capabilities, and RAM might increase to 8GB. Camera specs are expected to remain unchanged, with pricing starting at $799 for the iPhone 16 and $899 for the 16 Plus.
iPhone 16 Pro models are rumoured to have larger screens: 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max. They’ll feature a new Capture Button for camera functions and retain the titanium body, possibly introducing new pink and brown colour options. The Pro models will house the A18 Pro chip and may be manufactured in India for the first time.
While the vanilla models are expected to have the same set of cameras – 48MP + 12MP – as the previous generation, the Pro models are in for an upgrade. The iPhone 16 Pro could get the same 5x tetraprism telephoto lens as the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Rumours are also rife that the iPhone 16 Pro models would upgrade to a 48MP ultrawide sensor, up from 12MP. The main 48MP sensor is expected to remain unchanged. Pricing for the Pro models is anticipated to start at $1,099 for the 16 Pro and $1,199 for the 16 Pro Max.
Overall, the vanilla iPhone 16 models offer modest improvements, while the Pro versions bring more substantial upgrades in screen size, camera capabilities, and possibly colour options. Both lines will feature new chips enabling AI functionalities, with pricing expected to remain similar to the previous generation.
Apple Watch Series X to celebrate Apple Watch’s 10th anniversary
The new Apple Watch Series X – or possibly Series 10 – could shape up to be the biggest update in recent years. It’s rumoured to come in larger sizes – a 45mm one (this will probably replace the 41mm model) and a second 49mm like the Ultra model. The second change would be a thinner overall design. While earlier rumours had been describing the new design as flat, similar to that of Apple Watch Ultra, recent rumours suggest otherwise.
Furthermore, the Watch Series X might come with a redesigned band attachment system, which, according to sources, should make attaching and detaching the bands much easier. But this would also make existing bands incompatible.
The Series X is said to have a larger battery to complement the increased size. There’s also speculation about improved water resistance ratings, though this might be reserved for an updated Ultra model.
The Series X is likely to pack a new, more powerful S10 SiP, and will run watchOS 11.
Rumours are that the Watch Series X could come improved new health sensors. The most significant functional addition is expected to be sleep apnea detection, building on existing sleep tracking features to identify potential breathing issues during rest. However, don’t expect to see the long-rumoured blood pressure or glucose monitoring just yet, as those technologies are reportedly still in development.
While the exterior changes might grab headlines, the Series X could also bring some less visible but impactful upgrades.
As with recent iPhone releases, the Series X will likely focus on refining the Apple Watch experience rather than introducing revolutionary new features.
Two more Apple Watches: Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch SE 3
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 isn’t expected to be a radical departure from its rugged predecessor. It’ll likely maintain the same titanium case and expansive display, with improvements focused on internal upgrades. The most significant change could be a new, more efficient chip, potentially offering extended battery life beyond the current 36-hour rating. Rumours also suggest enhanced GPS accuracy and possibly new sensors tailored for extreme sports enthusiasts, though details remain scarce.
As for the Apple Watch SE 3, the budget-friendly model might see its most significant overhaul yet. The most notable rumoured change is a shift from an aluminium case to a rigid plastic shell, potentially bringing the price point even lower to compete with entry-level offerings from rivals. While it’s likely to retain the essential health and fitness tracking features of its predecessor, don’t expect additions like ECG or blood oxygen monitoring.
AirPods 4: One with ANC and an ‘SE’ model
There could be not one but two AirPods this year. No, we are not talking about the AirPods and AirPods Pro. But two models of the AirPods 4 – potentially a ‘SE’ model.
The AirPods 4 would largely maintain the familiar stem design, but these could have a slightly tweaked earbud shape for improved comfort. Then, the AirPods 4 are said to switch to USB-C charging cases across the board. One variant is expected to gain a speaker in its charging case, enhancing its compatibility with Apple’s Find My network for easier location when misplaced.
While audio quality improvements are anticipated, don’t expect a massive leap, although the pricier model might come with active noise cancellation. Although the AirPods 4 are expected to gain some new features, like ANC and Find My, they still might not get the audio capabilities of the Pro mode.
A new pair of AirPods Max
Apple might finally give the AirPods Max their due update, but it won’t be a major one. The second generation of AirPods Max is rumoured to be an iterative one. The most significant and only change is rumoured to be the long-awaited switch to USB-C charging. The upcoming iteration of AirPods Max could come with a newer H2 chip, but rumours have not said so. Rumours point towards a possible expansion of the colour palette.
iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, watchOS 11 and other software updates coming to Apple devices
Apple is expected to give out the dates for rollout of the next-generation of software updates. If rumours are to be believed, the iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17 all slated to later this month.
One more thing?
Alongside all the rumoured unveilings, the September 9 event might have an unexpected “one more thing” moment, though it’s not typical for this showcase.
Rumours are swirling about a dramatically redesigned Mac Mini, potentially Apple’s smallest desktop computer yet. It’s said to be roughly the size of an Apple TV box, ditching USB-A ports for a sleeker profile. Two versions are reportedly in the works – one with the standard M4 chip and another sporting the beefier M4 Pro. While the base model is rumoured to be shipping from suppliers this month, its appearance at the iPhone event isn’t guaranteed.
Apple could easily save this compact powerhouse for a dedicated Mac event later in the year, similar to last fall’s colourful iMac M3 reveal. Don’t hold your breath for an iPad Mini refresh either – despite being due for an update, Apple typically reserves iPad announcements for separate occasions.