Apple just wrapped up its highly anticipated “It’s Glowtime” event, unveiling the latest iPhone models, innovative AI features, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about today’s announcements.
iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro
On Monday, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 lineup, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Powered by the new A18 and A18 Pro chips, these devices take a leap forward in processing power. The A18 Pro, exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models, features a 16-core Neural Engine and a 6-core GPU. For gamers, Apple promises AAA games running smoother and faster than ever before. This chip also significantly improves the heat management of the devices; Apple says this provides up to 20% better sustained performance over the iPhone 15.
The camera system on the iPhone 16 Pro remains a standout feature. Apple upgraded the 48-megapixel wide and ultra-wide cameras with faster sensors, allowing more detailed images and better low-light performance. The 5x telephoto lens, previously only available on the Pro Max, is now part of both Pro models. Cinematographers will love the new 4K 120fps video recording, enhanced Dolby Vision, and spatial audio capture. Plus, the new Capture button provides a tactile, touch-sensitive way to quickly snap photos or control your camera settings with a simple swipe.
Prices for the iPhone 16 Pro start at $999, with pre-orders beginning this Friday, and shipping set for September 20.
Visual Intelligence
The primary AI feature demonstrated in the new iPhones is Visual Intelligence. This tool, enabled by the new Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 models, allows users to point their camera at objects and instantly gather context and information. (It’s Apple’s answer to Google Lens.) Want to know more about a restaurant you just passed? Visual Intelligence can pull up menus, reviews, and even reservation options, all within seconds.
iOS 18 & macOS Sequoia
With iOS 18, users can rearrange home screen icons anywhere, tweak the Control Center, and even hide or lock apps for enhanced privacy. Plus, the long-awaited support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) will bring iPhone users closer to their Android counterparts in messaging capabilities; no more pixelated images or missing read receipts when texting across platforms.
On the macOS front, Sequoia introduces AI-powered features like intelligent summarization in Notes and context-aware suggestions across various apps. Apple is also expanding gaming support on Macs, bringing AAA titles and MetalFX Upscaling to improve gaming performance.
Both iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia will roll out on September 16, with more Apple Intelligence features expected later this fall.
Apple Watch Series 10
Celebrating a decade of the Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Series 10 comes with a significant design overhaul. Apple says a larger, brighter screen paired with a thinner profile makes this model the most comfortable and sleekest yet. Available in two sizes (46mm and 42mm), the new Apple Watch features a redesigned speaker system and enhanced voice isolation, making it perfect for on-the-go calls in noisy environments.
Powered by the new S10 SIP chip, the Series 10 delivers 18 hours of battery life and faster charging speeds. Health remains a core focus; this model introduces sleep apnea detection via motion tracking, setting a new benchmark for wearable health technology.
New AirPods and AirPods 2 as Hearing Aids
The long-awaited AirPods Max update finally brings USB-C to Apple’s premium over-ear headphones, along with five new color options.
Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 2 can now double as hearing aids. This feature, although pending FDA approval, can boost specific sounds, offering wearers improved speech clarity in various environments. A five-minute hearing test, available on iOS 18, will help users create a personalized hearing profile.
Author’s note: This is not a sponsored post. I am the author of this article and it expresses my own opinions. I am not, nor is my company, receiving compensation for it. This work was created with the assistance of various generative AI models.