After Google's Pixel 9 event, it's time to look ahead to the industry's next big showcase. Apple's iPhone 16 event, the biggest date on the tech world's fall calendar, takes place on September 9 at 1pm ET. And as usual, rumors about the iPhone 16 lineup are swirling ahead of the event.
Apple has used the tagline “It's Glowtime” in the invitation sent to the media. As usual, the event will take place at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park, the company's headquarters in Cupertino, California.
This year is likely to be more subdued in terms of hardware changes, as Apple will likely put more emphasis on the software side and AI-powered Apple Intelligence features.
Features of the new iPhone 16
Apple will definitely upgrade the chipsets running on the iPhones, as it will want to ensure that all of its existing smartphones support Apple intelligence. As things are, only the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max have enough power to do so. Also, a new chipset is a minimal upgrade.
Apple may increase the screen size slightly this year. The camera array on the base iPhone 16 may get a new look, with Apple removing the square and switching to a vertical orientation. Apple is also likely to upgrade the cameras on several models.
Another significant change could be on the camera front as Apple is expected to add a capture button that includes zoom gesture controls. The idea is to make it easier to take photos and shoot videos in landscape mode. It is unclear if the button will be available across the lineup or just on the Pro models. However, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are expected to miss out on a mute switch, replaced by an action button that debuted on the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.
Apple Watch Series 10
Meanwhile, Apple usually introduces new Apple Watch models at its iPhone event. The Apple Watch Series 10 (or perhaps Series X) is expected to have a new chip that will make the device more powerful or power efficient. The screen could be significantly bigger, with reports suggesting that Apple is planning to introduce a 49mm variant instead of the 41mm variant. Rumors also suggest that Apple is redesigning the band system with a new connector. Unfortunately, this may prevent you from using your existing bands on the Series X.
everything else
It's almost certain that iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, watchOS 11 and Apple's other major operating system updates will go live soon after the event. However, the much-discussed Apple Intelligence features won't be available right away. Since they're in iOS 18.1 beta, most people will have to wait for the public rollout of that version (and equivalent OS versions on other compatible devices) to try out Apple Intelligence. Apple is expected to release iOS 18.1 in October.
Street news also suggests we'll get some updated AirPods at the event. We could see both entry-level and mid-tier versions of the AirPods 4 in a few weeks, with only the latter case supporting wireless charging.
You'll be able to watch the iPhone 16 event live on YouTube, Apple's website, and the Apple TV app. As always, we at Engadget will have you covered with all the big news.