While it hasn’t been confirmed by Apple yet, and probably won’t be until next week, many sources are saying that Apple will be holding their first media event of the year the week of March 21st to unveil new products and software. Here are the latest rumors about what we should see at that event.
iPhone
The iPhone 5S has been an incredibly popular iPhone model, and remains popular. Rumors are suggesting that Apple will replace the 5S with a new model, possibly dubbed the 5SE or SE, with upgraded specs, including a 4-inch display, A9 processor, and a 12 megapixel camera. The new device should also feature an upgraded TouchID sensor, which will enable Apple Pay to work on the new phone. We’re not sure what the new iPhone will look like, as some rumors have suggested that it will keep the same design as the 5S, and others have suggested it will take cues from the iPhone 6/6S. It could be a cross between the two as well, but either way, we’re sure it will still look nice, as Apple’s devices always do.
iPad
The iPad Air is the only iPad that hasn’t been updated since late 2014, so it is definitely due for an update. It is possible that Apple will replace the iPad Air branding with the iPad Pro, creating two screen sizes in that line. The new 9.7″ model is rumored to adopt the same 4 speaker design as the iPad Pro, as well as camera improvements, including an LED flash on the rear. It will likely also be upgraded to an A9X processor, bringing it up to speed with the current lineup. Apple Pencil support and a smart connector for use with accessories should also be new features on the new tablet.
Apple Watch
While we’re not expecting to see a complete new model, it is possible that we’ll see bands in new colors, as well as bands made from new materials launch at Apple’s March event.
Macs
According to the MacRumors buyer’s guide, many Mac models are listed as “Don’t buy,” meaning that they haven’t been updated in a while and it is likely that we’ll see updates soon. While there probably won’t be any huge updates, such as complete redesigns, processor bumps are likely to happen, probably starting with the 12″ MacBook and the 13″ MacBook Pro. The 15″ MacBook Pro probably won’t be updated until later this year, probably at WWDC at the earliest. It’s also unclear what Apple is planning to do with the MacBook Air line, now that the 12″ MacBook has been released, and probably fits the “Air” moniker better than the current models.
Software
Apple has been pushing beta versions of all of their major operating systems to developers so it’s likely that the changes in each of them will be discussed at the March event and release will follow within a week or so after the event. One of the biggest changes, found in iOS 9.3 beta, is the addition of Night Shift mode, which allows users to change their screen to a warmer color temperature at night, which is easier on the eyes at night when preparing to sleep.
That is just a small taste of what we could see from Apple later this month as they kick off the new year of product announcements. As always, TechInform will be covering the event and keeping you up to date on the latest news from Cupertino. Stay tuned to our website and follow us on Twitter for the latest information!