It’s official: Apple confirms iPhone 13 event for September 14

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Apple iPhone 13 event invite
Just one week away.
Photo: Apple

Apple today confirmed it will host its next big keynote on Tuesday, September 14. The “California streaming” event will likely be focused on iPhone 13, as well as Apple Watch Series 7 and a possible third-generation AirPods upgrade.

You’ll be able to watch the whole thing live online when it kicks off at 10 a.m. PDT.

Apple is expected to host a series of big product events this fall to refresh a number of devices before the busy holiday period. And recent rumors have promised that there will be plenty for us fans to get all giddy about.

It all starts next Tuesday with the California streaming event, which could give us our first glimpse at the next iPhone, Apple Watch, and more.

What to expect from Apple’s next event

iPhone 13 is likely to be the star of the show. Although we don’t expect it to bring significant design changes, recent reports have indicated it could come with a smaller notch and a slightly thicker case that packs bigger batteries.

Apple’s next-generation smartphone lineup could also feature faster ProMotion displays — like iPad Pro — as well as an even quicker Apple A15 processor. One report recently claimed all models with get a LiDAR Scanner.

Pro versions of the device could also offer new camera features, including the ability to shoot ProRes video that gives editors greater control over their recordings. But all models are likely to see some camera improvements.

Other features could include faster Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, an always-on display, and the ability to communicate with satellites when you have no cell signal. But we don’t expect iPhone 13 to bring back Touch ID.

Apple Watch Series 7

Apple is expected to unveil a new Apple Watch alongside its next-gen. iPhone — as has become the tradition. Series 7 could be the biggest upgrade yet, with a new design that sports sharper edges and larger displays.

We are likely to see new watch faces in watchOS 8 that take advantage of those bigger screens, but it’s still unclear whether or not they will mean Apple Watch Series 7 is incompatible with existing bands.

We don’t expect the next Apple Watch to deliver any major improvements to health and fitness tracking, with a recent report ruling out rumored blood pressure monitoring. But the larger size could mean better battery life.

The big news regarding the new Apple Watch it is currently being hit by a number of production problems. It’s thought the device will still appear next week, but that supplies could be extremely limited at launch.

Brand-new AirPods

Next week’s even could also see the release of the third-generation AirPods upgrade we’ve been patiently waiting for. The new buds will reportedly look a lot like AirPods Pro, but without the soft silicone tips.

They will also miss out on AirPods Pro features like active noise cancellation, but AirPods 3 are likely to be water-resistant like their pricier siblings. They could also deliver better sound and perhaps better battery life.

It’s unlikely they’ll pack health sensors, as some reports have suggested, just yet. Though that could be an upgrade we see from AirPods in the future.

Other surprises?

Apple is also planning a refresh for MacBook Pro, Mac mini, iPad, and iPad mini before the end of 2021, according to recent reports. These are expected to get their own events later, but Apple could surprise us with other announcements at its California streaming event next week.

You will be able to watch the event online — either on YouTube or via Apple’s website. It kicks off at 10 a.m. PDT/1 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, September 14.

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