Without a doubt, Apple’s annual September event is the company’s most anticipated of the year. That’s when Apple introduces new iPhones and (usually) new iPads. But it’s also when Apple announces release dates for its new operating systems for its various gadgets as well as dropping some occasional service updates and hardware or software surprises.
Now that August is almost done, Apple’s September iPhone event is little more than three weeks away. Though Apple probably won’t send out press invites for the event until the end of the month, it’s likely the event will be held on either September 11th or September 12th. With that in mind, here’s what to expect from the event.
iPhone X and iPhone X Plus
Without a doubt, we’ll see an updated iPhone X at the event. We’ll also see a new iPhone X Plus as well. The phones will have 5.8 and 6.5 OLED displays, respectively. But the displays may be updated to include support for the Apple Pencil, which would allow users to finally use a styli with the device.
[Image: MacRumors]
It’s also rumored that each iPhone X will see 4GB of RAM and come in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB models. While a cripple-lens rear camera has been rumored, it’s likely that will be held off for the 2019 model.
Other rumored features include a copper coil for improved wireless charging and the inclusion of a USB-C power adapter. As for price, the iPhone X is rumored to start at around $899, while the iPhone X Plus could start at $999.
iPhone 9
Besides the new iPhone X’s Apple is also said to be introducing a lower-cost 6.1in LCD iPhone. Some people say Apple will market this as another iPhone X, but I feel Apple could call this device the iPhone 9 as the name would fit nicely with their current lineup that features an iPhone 6s, iPhone 7, iPhone 8, and iPhone X.
The iPhone 9 will differ from the iPhone X series in that it will only feature a single lens rear camera, and again, have a TFT-LCD display. The phone is expected to have Face ID and an A12 chipset, however.
It’s also rumored the iPhone 9 could come in multiple colors including grey, white, blue, red, and orange. As for cost, Apple is looking to position this iPhone as the new entry-level model. It could cost as low as $700 or $800.
New iPad Pros
Apple is said to have new iPad Pros in the pipeline, however, it’s not clear if these will be announced at the September event or at their own event in October. Either way, the new iPad Pros are expected to feature an all-new iPhone X-inspired edge-to-edge display design.
The new iPads will also do away with the Touch ID in favor of the Face ID biometric system. Besides the major design overhaul, you can expect to see A12X chips in them and increased RAM.
Apple Watch Series 4
There will be a new Apple Watch, and this year the killer feature will be an edge-to-edge display design, giving you more display without making the watch face any larger. Unfortunately, the display will still be rectangular, so if you were hoping for a round clock face, you’re out of luck. Oh, and don’t worry, there will be plenty of new bands.
Release Dates For The Next iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS
It’s no surprise that the next version of iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS is coming. Apple announced all four in June and has been publicly beta testing them since this summer. What we will see is any final feature additions to the range of software that is feature-dependent on new hardware (like the Face ID system in the new iPad).
We’ll also get the release dates for the software. Expect the new OSes to go live about a week before the new hardware ships (so mid-September).
What We Won’t See
Apple is rumored to be releasing a new Mac mini and a new MacBook Air this year. However, it’s unlikely that these devices will be showcased at the September event. Apple typically holds another event in October focusing on Mac products. Expect to see these new products shown off there.