Soon Apple enthusiasts will feel their pulse rise: The tech giant’s annual launch event from Cupertino is scheduled for September 9, where the company will present the iPhone 17 series, updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods, and possibly an innovation that could shake up the smartphone market.
This includes an ultra-thin device called the iPhone Air, alongside reports of camera, display, and health feature improvements in the smartwatches. This is everything currently known according to rumors.
The iPhone 17 will come with a larger 6.3-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a significant upgrade from the previous 60Hz model. In addition, a new 24-megapixel front camera and new colors such as green and purple will be introduced.
The more advanced Pro and Pro Max models are expected to feature a new rear camera array in a rectangular strip that spans the back of the device. This change will create a more uniform appearance, with the Apple logo centered.
The iPhone 17 Pro may replace the titanium frame with aluminum, a move that will allow the company to reduce costs and also lower weight. The Pro Max, the largest model in the series, is expected to be slightly thicker to make room for a larger battery—a feature that could please users seeking longer battery life. Prices will correspond: Starting at $800 for the standard model, up to $1,250 for the Pro Max, with the Pro model estimated at around $1,050.
The most intriguing announcement is the iPhone Air, a slim device only 5.5 mm thick, making it Apple’s thinnest smartphone to date. It is expected to have a 6.6-inch display and replace the Plus model. This is a strategic move aimed at competing with ultra-thin devices from Samsung and Huawei.
However, the thinness comes with trade-offs: According to leaks, the device will have only a single rear camera instead of two as in the previous model, and it may even omit the bottom speakers, meaning sound will come only from the top earpiece. Its price is expected to be $950, available in black, silver, and light gold.
In the smartwatch segment, Apple is expected to unveil the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3. The Ultra 3 is expected to have a major upgrade with faster charging, 5G support, and even satellite connectivity. One of the major promises is the integration of blood pressure measurement and sleep apnea detection. However, reports suggest these features may be delayed due to the need for further improvements. Expected prices: $250 for the SE 3, around $400 for Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
The AirPods are also getting a refresh: The new AirPods Pro 3 is expected to feature a smaller, lighter design, a slimmer case, touch controls, and a new H3 chip that will improve noise cancellation and sound quality. The headphones, which have become one of Apple’s most popular products, will aim to maintain their market position against competitors.