Apple iPhone 17 Lineup, AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and More Announcements Expected at September 9 Event
Apple’s annual hardware unveiling is expected to occur on September 9 this year, where the tech giant is anticipated to launch its iPhone 17 series, as well as updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods.
Multiple rumors are circulating about the new iPhones, including larger screens and enhanced cameras, and the potential introduction of an ultra-slim iPhone Air that could replace the Plus model.
The iPhone 17 is predicted to undergo a substantial overhaul to resemble the Pro models more closely. It may feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen, a significant increase from its predecessor, along with a 120Hz display, a notable upgrade from the current 60Hz. The device might also sport a high-resolution 24-megapixel front camera and come in new colors: purple and green.
Conceptual renderings suggest that the Pro models’ rear cameras could be arranged in a rectangular bar spanning the width of the device, with the flash, light sensor, and microphone located on the right side. The MagSafe charger location is said to be replaced by the centrally positioned Apple logo for aesthetic reasons.
Notably, the iPhone 17 Pro may transition from titanium to aluminum for the band encircling the screen, potentially reducing costs and offering a lighter feel.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to see fewer changes, with the most significant alteration being a slightly thicker body to accommodate a larger battery, which would significantly improve battery life.
According to leaker Instant Digital, the iPhone 17 could be priced around $800, and the Pro Max might carry a price tag of $1,250.
The Pro model is expected to cost approximately $1,050, but recent leaks suggest it may offer fewer storage options compared to its predecessor. Users might have only three choices: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB, as opposed to the usual four options.
The most talked-about rumor is about Apple possibly launching its thinnest phone ever, the iPhone Air, which could replace the iPhone Plus. This device is said to have a thickness of only 5.5 mm, making it nearly 0.1 inches slimmer than current iPhones. It’ll also feature a 6.6-inch screen.
This move appears to be Apple’s response to the growing trend of slim smartphones, following in the footsteps of other companies like Samsung and Huawei. The iPhone Air could potentially outshine the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which measures just 5.8 mm thick. Additionally, it may pave the way for Apple’s long-rumored foldable phone, predicted to launch in September 2026.
While the slender design is stylish, it would come with some compromises. Based on the renders we’ve seen, the Air is expected to feature a single rear camera lens, unlike the Plus, which has two. There are also rumors that there may not be enough space for a speaker at the bottom, meaning the only audio source could be the front earpiece at the top.
Reports suggest the device will cost $950 and will be available in black, silver, and light gold.
After a two-year hiatus, there are various rumors surrounding the Apple Watch Ultra 3, suggesting it will undergo significant changes. These may include faster charging speeds, 5G support, and satellite connectivity. Additionally, it’s speculated that the watch will feature a larger display.
One of the most exciting potential upgrades for both the Ultra 3 and Series 11 is the incorporation of blood pressure monitoring capabilities. This feature would alert users if their blood pressure levels are abnormal. Apple is also considering adding a sleep apnea feature. However, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company may need to delay the release of these features for further refinements.
Apple recently announced that a redesigned blood oxygen feature is rolling out to some Series 8, 10, and Ultra watches. This leads us to believe that the Ultra 3 may also acquire this capability, but the company didn’t mention if it would be available in watchOS 26 in its announcement.
The third generation of Apple Watch SE isn’t expected to receive major updates, aside from possibly a larger display. There continue to be reports of a plastic version being introduced, according to Gurman.
Rumored prices for the watches are: $250 for the Apple Watch SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
Following the release of the AirPods Pro 2 in 2022, there’s speculation that an upgrade is on the horizon, and Apple might be ready to deliver. Rumors suggest that the AirPods Pro 3 will feature a sleeker design, touch-sensitive controls, smaller earbuds, and a slimmer case. Additionally, the H3 chip is expected to improve active noise cancellation and adaptive audio.
