Apple Event: What to Expect Next Week

Anticipating Apple’s “California Streaming” Event

Extensive analysis of recent reports and leaks, even examining musical cues, has been undertaken to forecast the announcements expected at next Tuesday’s “California Streaming” event.

The event invitations, distributed a week prior, offer limited direct clues. An augmented reality experience, accessible via Safari on mobile devices, hints at potential camera enhancements. However, augmented reality features have become commonplace in these invitations.

Decoding the Event Title and Imagery

The “California Streaming” title likely emphasizes the all-virtual format of the event, rather than signaling updates to Apple TV, though past events have included unexpected reveals. The imagery of the Sierra Nevada mountains could allude to macOS, despite the recent Monterey update, or simply reinforce the event’s theme.

The Expected Arrival of the iPhone 13

A new iPhone is the most anticipated announcement. Last year’s iPhone 12 launch was delayed due to supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Despite ongoing supply chain challenges, Apple appears to be returning to its pre-pandemic release schedule. The iPhone 12’s introduction of 5G, combined with the delay, resulted in strong sales figures.

iPhone 13 Configurations and Design

Reports indicate the iPhone 13 will be available in four models: the iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max. Screen sizes are expected to remain consistent at 5.4, 6.1 (twice), and 6.7 inches.

Potential new color options include black, white, blue, purple, pink (replacing green), and Product (Red). Color availability may vary by region.

Camera Enhancements and New Features

Significant camera upgrades are anticipated. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that features previously exclusive to the Pro Max model will be extended to the entire iPhone 13 lineup, potentially including LiDAR technology.

A ProRes video mode is expected, building upon the introduction of ProRAW. “Cinematic Video” is rumored to bring a portrait-mode effect to video recording. A Qualcomm X60-based feature enabling emergency satellite calls may be available in select markets.

The iPhone 13 will feature Apple’s A15 chip and a 120 Hz ProMotion display. An always-on display feature is also a possibility, with careful consideration given to battery life. The design is expected to be similar to the iPhone 12, with a slightly reduced camera notch and a larger camera bump.

Price increases compared to the iPhone 12 are anticipated, though Apple is unlikely to highlight this aspect.

Apple Watch 7: A Larger Display and Improved Battery Life

The Apple Watch 7 is also expected to be a major announcement. The wearable is rumored to receive a larger display, resulting in a slightly increased case size, moving from 40 mm and 44 mm to 41 mm and 45 mm.

The overall size increase will be minimized by reducing the bezels around the display.

Improved battery life is a highly anticipated feature, addressing a long-standing concern compared to competing smartwatches. Major new health features are not currently expected.

AirPods 3 and Potential Mac Updates

The AirPods 3 are likely to be unveiled, featuring a redesigned case and a new chip for improved battery performance. Active noise cancellation and replaceable ear tips are not expected to be included, maintaining differentiation from the AirPods Pro.

With Apple’s transition to its own silicon continuing, new Macs are also a possibility. Rumors point to updated MacBook Pro models, a new Mac Mini, and a larger, 27-inch ARM-powered iMac.

Event Details

The “California Streaming” event will begin on Tuesday, September 14, at 10 a.m. PDT/1 p.m. EDT. Live coverage and updates will be provided as announcements are made.