Now we know what to expect at Apple’s iPhone 16 launch

Screenshot

Mark Gurman’s latest set of well-connected claims tell us the last few details concerning what to expect from Apple’s big event Monday. And while there’s a lot to like, it’s a little disappointing, if you like surprises as it leaves little room for speculation.

Perhaps that’s deliberate, given the need to manage market expectation and guard against the accidental damage of idle rumor.

So, what are the last slices of speculation Gurman’s quashed this time round?

The top line summary is that Apple will introduce four iPhone 16 models, two AirPods models, a “noticeably thinner” Apple Watch Series 10, new health features and more. Macs and iPads won’t debut till later this year. Summary follows:

Summary of what to expect from iPhones

As expected, we’ll see larger 6.3” and 6.9” displays with even slimmer bezels. We can also look forward to much faster processors and a bump in RAM. The writer once again confirms a new Capture button which will work like a DSLR camera shutter button. It’s haptic, however, so additional functionality will include the capacity to swipe across the button to use the zoom or switch between camera modes.

Camera improvements include a new arrangement, spatial video recording, an ultra-wide lens on the Pro models and more. The iPhone 16 Pro Max will gain a super telephoto periscope camera for even better zoom. You’ll also get more battery life than before. A range of other improvements include upgraded microphones, expanded storage, more memory and new colors. And a slightly higher entry price.

What to expect from AirPods

Apple is working on software that turns AirPods into hearing aid replacements, as well as a device to conduct hearing tests. This may not be ready on launch, but it’s coming. Otherwise, expect the two (up from one) models to look more like AirPods Pro, including USB-C ports and Active Noise Cancellation (in the higher end config), and support for Bluetooth 5.3 thanks t the H2 chip.

What about the Apple Watch range?

Apple Watch Series 10 gains larger display size options and is much thinner. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will have a new and better processor, and the Apple Watch SE will also see an update. (Previously we’ve been told to expect a slightly lower cost device available in a range of colors). What I find also interesting is that future AI updates for Apple Watch will be health-focused.

One more thing

One way or another what Apple announces during Apple’s Glowtime event will get headlines. The world will be attentive to Apple Intelligence and what it can do. However, in the afterglow Apple is expecting to hear if it is to be fined billions by the EU on the following day, when it will announce a decision on whether Apple needs to pay $14 billion tax.

Please follow me on LinkedIn, Mastodon, or join me in the AppleHolic’s bar & grill group on MeWe.