The Apple event known as “Wonderlust” is just around the corner, slated for September 12. Expectations are high, with Apple poised to introduce not just six new products but possibly more surprises. Furthermore, Apple will unveil the release dates for iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17, all of which were initially revealed at WWDC23 in June. While these operating systems are well-documented, Apple’s September event is primarily dedicated to hardware, with the spotlight firmly on the iPhones. Here’s a sneak peek at what Apple has in store for the event.
Prepare for the arrival of four fresh iPhones. Building on the tradition of the past few years, Apple is set to launch four models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. There have been rumblings that the pinnacle iPhone of 2023 might bear the moniker iPhone 15 Ultra, but recent reports suggest that Apple might adhere to the iPhone 15 Pro Max nomenclature. The regular iPhone 15 and 15 Plus will serve as the base models, featuring aluminum frames and glass backs.
In contrast, the two high-end iPhone 15 models will boast titanium frames. The substantial screen and camera upgrades from last year, including Dynamic Island and a 48MP camera, are expected to extend to the base iPhone 15 series models this year. Apple may also stick with a diverse processor strategy, meaning the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will run on the A16 Bionic processor, while the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature the latest-generation A17 processor. All four iPhone 15 models are poised to make the shift from Lightning to USB-C connectivity. Color options for the iPhone 15 are rumored to include Black, White, Yellow, Blue, and, according to some reports, an Orange/Coral Pink variant.
Two Apple Watch models are on the horizon. Apple is anticipated to refresh two Apple Watch series with the launch of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. The Apple Watch Series 9 will retain the current 41-millimeter and 45-millimeter sizes, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is expected to maintain the 49 mm size. These new Apple Watches are likely to maintain a design reminiscent of last year’s models. Standard watches will stick to the same basic design introduced with the Series 4 in 2018, while the Ultra models will retain last year’s aesthetics. However, Apple might introduce fresh materials and colors. The main focus for Apple Watch this year is rumored to be enhanced performance, with the watches anticipated to receive their first new chip since the Series 6. Apple is unlikely to unveil a successor to the Apple Watch SE 2 launched in 2022.
AirPods Pro are also in line for an update. Apple may introduce AirPods Pro with support for USB Type-C charging. While the earbuds may not feature any other major hardware enhancements, a software update could bring improved automatic device switching and the ability to mute and unmute directly from the AirPods. Additionally, a new feature called Conversation Awareness may automatically pause media playback when the wearer begins speaking. Furthermore, the company reportedly plans to introduce USB-C charging for its entry-level AirPods and AirPods Max as early as next year.
