To get the best picture possible of next Tuesday's California Streaming event, we have been researching the latest rumors and leaked songs and played all of The Mamas & The Papas songs forwards and backwards.
These invites were sent out one week ahead of the event and don't give away the game. You could access some very cool AR trickery through Safari on mobile. This could indicate some camera upgrades. However, augmented reality has become quite a common feature on these invites.
California Streaming's title seems more to be a nod towards the all-virtual nature and not anything to do, say, Apple TV (ofcourse, we've been one-more thinged in the past). That lovely shot of the Sierras could be a reference to macOS, but the company has since moved to Monterey. It could also be a reference the above title.
A new iPhone is the best, easiest and most important answer to your question about what to expect. Last year's models were delayed by COVID-19-related supply chains bottlenecking. Although supply chain issues have remained, the company seems to be on track with its prepandemic release cycle.
The long-awaited 5G upgrade was the iPhone 12's most significant upgrade. This, along with the delay, helped Apple achieve some very impressive sales quarters despite a wider stalling in the overall mobile market. Apple is firmly committed to iPhone 13 (even though renders of its successor, iPhone 14, have been reportedly leaked).
According to recent reports, the iPhone 13 will be available in four configurations similar to its predecessor. The iPhone 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max will all be available. The screen sizes should be the same: 5.4 (x2), 6.1 (x2), and 6.7 inches. According to a separate report, well may see more colors. The full line-up will include black, white blue, purple and pink (rather that green) as well as Product (Red). It is possible to offer different colors in different markets, but it is not impossible.
Camera upgrades are, unsurprisingly, the most important news. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that the Pro Max model specs from last year will be extended to the rest (including lidar). ProRes video mode will be added to the handsets semi-pro video shooting equipment. Cinematic Video is said to add a Portrait-mode effect to video. Kuo also indicated that the devices would get a feature that uses the Qualcomm X60 to allow for emergency satellite calls. This feature is reportedly limited to select markets.
The A15 chip from Apple will be included in the new phone. It is said to be paired with a 120 Hz ProMotion display. Apple may also bring an always-on feature on the screen, with minimal impact on battery life. It will look similar to its predecessor. However, it will have a smaller camera notch at the front. But not as much as the fake Ted Lasso iPhone. According to some reports, the camera bump at the back is getting larger and may offer a better telephoto lens.
They're also more expensive than the iPhone 12, which is clearly not one the new features Apple will be actively promoting.
The Apple Watch 7 appears to be the main news at the event. The Apple Watch 7, the popular wearable, is expected to grow in size. It will have a larger display and a slightly larger size. However, the overall size of the device won't change much as Apple is rumored to be reducing its bezels.
The Watch's battery life is most intriguing rumor. This has been a problem for Apple smartwatches, especially after Apple improved sleep tracking. Many aren't expecting major new health features on the Watch, which is somewhat surprising considering that Apple has been a major contributor to health and fitness.
AirPods 3 look like a good choice. AirPods 3, the latest entry-level earbuds from the company, will get a more Pro-style design and a new chip to increase battery life. To maintain the distinction between these models, active noise cancellation and replaceable tips will not be available.
Don't be surprised to see new Macs after the company has upgraded its range of silicon. Rumours suggest a new MacBook Pro and Mac Mini, as well as a larger 27-inch version its ARM-powered iMac.
Tuesday, September 14th at 10 a.m. PDT/1 pm EDT will mark the start of the event. We'll be there, reporting the latest as it happens.
