Apple is gearing up to host its highly anticipated launch event at its headquarters in Cupertino, California. This event is undoubtedly the most significant of the year for the tech giant, as it unveils its new hardware, including the highly anticipated iPhone 15. The event will feature a prerecorded video presentation by Apple executives, which will be streamed on YouTube and Apple’s website. Last year’s event lasted about an hour and a half, and considering Apple’s penchant for product showcases through prerecorded videos since 2020, this format is likely to continue.
Apple’s launch events play a crucial role in building hype for the company’s products and setting the stage for a marketing blitz leading into the December quarter, which is Apple’s biggest sales period of the year. The fact that 31 million people watched Apple’s YouTube video from last year’s launch attests to the fact that customers still prefer to receive information directly from the company. These launch events also provide an opportunity for Apple to regain sales momentum, fend off competition, and persuade Android users to make the switch.
One of the highlights of this year’s event is expected to be the release of four new iPhone models, following the pattern established in 2020. It is likely that the models will be branded under the iPhone 15 series. Reports from Bloomberg News, TF International Securities hardware analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, and Wall Street analysts indicate that Apple will release two sizes of mid-range iPhones, one with a 6.1-inch screen and one with a 6.7-inch screen. Additionally, there will be two sizes of higher-end “Pro” phones featuring titanium casing and enhanced camera capabilities. A notable change this year is the anticipated introduction of a USB-C charging port, replacing Apple’s proprietary Lightning port. This change aligns with new European regulations and offers users the convenience of compatibility with other devices.
In addition to the USB-C charging port, the Pro models might incorporate a titanium casing instead of stainless steel, resulting in a lighter overall weight. Event invitations have displayed an Apple logo in what appears to be a titanium finish, fueling speculation about this change. Lower-end phones, likely called simply iPhone 15, could receive an upgrade in the form of the “dynamic island” design, which replaces the traditional “notch” and offers real-time updates, such as information about ongoing app activities. The mute switch, a long-standing feature on iPhones, might gain new functionality as a customizable “action button.”
Focus on Camera and Chip Improvements
Apple is expected to emphasize camera and chip improvements as key reasons for users to consider upgrading to the latest iPhone models. The most expensive iPhone, the larger Pro model, might feature a new lens with twice the zooming capabilities of the previous model. This enhancement would offer users even more versatility when capturing photos and videos. The speculated chip upgrades would further enhance the overall performance and efficiency of the devices.
Updates to Apple Watch and Accessories
While not as dramatic as the iPhone updates, the Apple Watch Series 8 and the high-end titanium model called the Ultra are also likely to receive updates. These updates will likely include improvements to the device’s chip and its health sensing capabilities. The company, however, might reserve significant changes for next year’s 10th-anniversary edition of the Apple Watch. Apple’s range of accessories, which currently use Lightning connectors, may also be updated to support USB-C compatibility. While these updates may not receive much focus during the launch event, they would provide users a seamless experience across various Apple devices.
Software Updates for iPhone Users
Even users who do not plan on purchasing a new iPhone or Apple Watch will benefit from the launch event. Apple usually previews its latest operating systems for its devices in June and releases them in September alongside new iPhones. The upcoming iOS 17 will bring several exciting features to iPhones released since 2018. These features include a revamped caller ID screen, improved autocorrect using transformer-based language models, a Journal app for saving daily thoughts and emotions, a standby dock mode that turns the phone into a clock with convenient widgets, and an innovative business card replacement feature called NameDrop. Apple Maps will also introduce offline functionality, allowing users to navigate even without cellular service.
As the excitement builds for Apple’s launch event, customers and tech enthusiasts alike eagerly await the unveiling of the iPhone 15 and other new products. The event promises to deliver a blend of new design elements, technological advancements, and software updates. While the exact details remain a mystery until the event, Apple’s track record ensures that the products will likely be well-received and set the stage for another successful year for the tech giant.