Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 on Monday, introducing a range of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered features that integrate the latest technology into its iconic smartphone lineup.
Alongside the iPhone 16, Apple will also launch updated versions of its Apple Watch and AirPods, expanding its product ecosystem with cutting-edge innovations.
These announcements follow Apple’s earlier reveal of an AI-driven operating system, designed to enhance the functionality of many of its devices. The generative AI feature, dubbed Apple Intelligence, promises to help users summarize messages, enhance photos, and more, the company revealed.
Monday’s event marks the first time consumers will see how Apple is integrating AI into its most popular products. “There’s still a lot of uncertainty around AI, with many asking, ‘Why should I care?’” said Ben Bajarin, an analyst at Creative Strategies. “Apple’s latest product updates are a significant move in that direction.”
Despite the excitement, investors showed some caution, as Apple’s stock dipped 1.5% shortly after the product launch event.
Here’s a rundown of the new products Apple unveiled:
Apple Watch Series 10
Nearly a decade after launching its first Apple Watch, Apple has introduced the Series 10. This new model boasts a larger and brighter display, as well as a more powerful processor. The screen is up to 30% larger than its predecessor, making typing and reading easier. Additionally, the display is 40% brighter, and in always-on mode, it refreshes once per second for better responsiveness.
Powered by the new S10 SiP chip, the Series 10 enhances functionality, including improved crash and fall detection. The watch starts at $399, is available for preorder, and will officially launch on Sept. 20.
Apple also unveiled the Apple Watch Ultra II, a high-end model starting at $799, which will be available for preorder and launch on the same date.
AirPods 4
The latest iteration of Apple’s popular earbud headphones, AirPods 4, comes with advanced noise-cancellation, an upgraded processor, and enhanced surround sound. The earbuds can recognize head gestures, allowing users to nod “yes” or “no” in response to Siri prompts. They also feature a “noise isolation” feature that automatically minimizes background noise during calls.
When users engage in conversations nearby, the AirPods 4 can lower the volume of playing media automatically. The earbuds, powered by the new H2 chip, are priced at $129, with a noise-cancelling version available for $179. Both versions can be preordered now, with an official release on Sept. 20. A premium model, AirPods 4 Max, starts at $249.
iPhone 16
Apple’s flagship product, the iPhone 16, now includes Apple Intelligence for AI-driven message summaries, message composition assistance, camera enhancements, and improved Siri capabilities. This AI technology will assist users in drafting or editing texts across third-party apps like Slack and even generating custom emojis from written descriptions.
The iPhone 16’s camera will be enhanced by AI, offering features like identifying a restaurant’s hours or the breed of a dog captured in a photo. Siri will also see improvements, becoming more adept at understanding user commands, even if the user stumbles over their words. Written prompts will now be supported as well.
Initially, Apple Intelligence will be available in U.S. English, with plans to expand to other English dialects next year. Versions in other languages like Mandarin and Spanish will follow.
Aside from AI, the iPhone 16 features a larger display and a faster chip. The standard model boasts a 6.1-inch screen, while the iPhone 16 Pro comes with a 6.7-inch display. The new A18 chip increases processing speed by 30%.
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The iPhone 16 starts at $799, with the iPhone 16 Plus priced at $899. Despite these innovations, Apple has kept prices consistent with last year’s models, following a trend in its recent releases. “Keeping prices stable is a priority for Apple,” said Bajarin of Creative Strategies.
With these launches, Apple continues to blend innovation with familiarity, introducing new AI capabilities while maintaining the features consumers expect from the brand.
