Gadgets

Hands on: Apple introduces new iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches

Published

3 months ago

September 10, 2024

Hands on: Apple introduces new iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches

Apple recently unveiled its latest smartphones and wearables at an event in Cupertino, Calif. PopSci had the opportunity to attend the event in person to get a closer look at the new gadgets, which are now available for preorder and will be released on Sept. 20.

The event, dubbed “It’s Glowtime,” showcased significant upgrades to Apple’s non-pro devices, marking the most substantial updates in years. Apple is also entering the realm of AI, offering features and hardware that rival AI initiatives on Android phones. Here’s a breakdown of what Apple announced:

Apple Watch 10: X marks the spot

The Apple Watch Series 10, set to celebrate its 10th birthday in April, has already been released. The new smartwatch is both smaller in volume and larger in screen size compared to previous models. Available in 42mm and 46mm configurations, the Series 10 offers improved resolution, providing better clarity in text messages and apps. The display is bright and vibrant, making it easy to use throughout the day. The Series 10 also features updates to its speaker and microphone systems, as well as new sensors for water temperature and depth tracking. Additionally, the Series 10 offers faster charging and a new black titanium color option.

With improved performance and features, the Apple Watch Series 10 remains competitively priced, starting at $399 for the GPS model and $499 for the cellular version.

AirPods: High-end features in lower-cost earbuds, Max gets new colors

Apple introduced the AirPods 4, offering significant upgrades over previous models. The new earbuds are smaller and lighter, with improved processor performance that aligns them with the AirPods Pro. The AirPods 4 feature dust resistance, voice isolation, personalized volume, Bluetooth 5.3 support, and a new vent system for pressure equalization. The AirPods 4 also come with an option for active noise cancellation, previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro, along with other advanced features like the H2 chip and adaptive audio.

The AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are priced at $129 and $179 respectively.

New shades of Apple's AirPod Maxes on a stand with AirPods 4

Apple also introduced updates to the AirPods Max, now available with a USB-C port and new color options. The AirPods Max are priced at $549 and come in colors like Blue, purple, midnight, starlight, and orange. While the AirPods Pro line did not receive new hardware updates, Apple announced upcoming software updates that will introduce new features, such as a hearing test and using the AirPods Pro 2 as over-the-counter hearing aids.

iPhone 16: Smartly designed inside and out

The iPhone 16 on display stands at Apple's headquarters in Cupertino, Calif.

Apple introduced the iPhone 16, featuring a leap to the A18 processor for improved performance. The A18 processor offers a 30% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU compared to the previous A16 Bionic chip. The iPhone 16 also includes new buttons for quick app access and camera control, as well as enhancements to the camera system, display, and design for better heat dissipation and durability. The iPhone 16 starts at $799.