All the highlights from the Apple launch event 2024

It’s officially that time of the year when the anticipation around Apple’s newest launch becomes the topic of choice around the world. The excitement is palpable, and the annual showcase has become synonymous with innovation and breakthrough products, setting the tone for the next wave of technology. This year promises to be no different. This year, Apple’s iPhone launch event which is held in September every year is called It’s Glowtime. The tech giant unveiled a range of new products, including the iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Series 10, AirPods 4, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and AirPods Max in fresh colours.

iPhone 16 series

The iPhone 16 was the highlight of the event with new variants including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max all built with Apple Intelligence. The standout feature however across all models is the new Camera Control feature that allows you to simply slide your fingers to seamlessly zoom in and out while clicking a photograph. The iPhone 16  features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, making everything look crisper and brighter. Powered by the new A18 Bionic chip, it enables faster processing and better battery life, along with advanced AI features that help with everyday tasks like improving photos or enhancing augmented reality apps. The 50MP camera system includes a new periscope telephoto lens for better zoom and clearer photos, even in low light. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also come with a 48MP main sensor, 2x optical zoom, and a new vertical camera arrangement. Available in vibrant colours like white, black, teal, pink, and ultramarine, these models offer the latest iPhone technology at a lower price point.

Prices for the iPhone 16 start at $899 (₹75,000) for the 128GB model, with larger storage options available up to 1TB, priced at $1,499 (₹1,25,500)

The iPhone 16 Pro gets a larger screen and a better camera!  But it’s not complete without a mention of the camera! Its quad-camera system includes a 100MP main camera, along with a LiDAR scanner for better night photography and AR experiences. With a 48MP Ultra-Wide Camera and 5x Telephoto lens, the Pro models allow users to capture high-quality images and record videos in 4K at 120 fps in Dolby Vision. Both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max boast a sleek titanium design, featuring the thinnest bezels yet and improved battery life.

Prices start at $1,199 (₹1,00,500) for the 128GB model, with storage options up to 1TB.

Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2

Celebrating ten years of innovation, the Apple Watch Series 10 is the thinnest model to date, featuring a 20% larger display. The focus remains on health and fitness, with new features such as Blood Pressure monitoring, Sleep Stage Tracking, and an enhanced body temperature sensor. The Series 10 also offers fast charging, with a full charge achievable in just 45 minutes, and includes advanced connectivity options that reduce reliance on the paired iPhone. In addition, the watch includes expanded sleep tracking and even monitors stress levels through heart rate variability. It is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, with prices starting at $499 (₹41,900).

On. the other hand, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed for adventurers and athletes, offering rugged durability with a titanium casing and a battery life of up to 82 hours. It includes dual-frequency GPS for accurate navigation and water resistance up to 100 metres, making it suitable for divers and explorers alike. Whether you’re into hiking, diving, or triathlons, the Ultra 2 has new modes and metrics tailored to these activities. It offers 72 hours of battery life on a single charge and is priced at $899 (₹75,500).

AirPods 4 and AirPods Max 

The new AirPods 4 come in two variants: a standard version and a premium model featuring active noise cancellation (ANC). The premium version includes a Find My-enabled charging case and wireless charging compatibility.  With Spatial Audio 2.0, they provide a more immersive listening experience by adjusting the sound based on how you move. The updated adaptive noise cancellation uses AI to filter out background noise even better than before, making them ideal for commuting or working in noisy environments. Their battery life has also been improved, giving 7 hours of playback on a single charge. The AirPods 4 are priced at $299 (₹25,000).

Apple’s premium AirPods Max over-ear headphones now come in new colours, including Sunset Orange, Midnight Blue, and Forest Green. They are now equipped with a USB-C port for universal compatibility.  With a 30-hour battery life and a lightweight design, they’re perfect for long listening sessions. The AirPods Max are priced at $549 (₹46,500).