Apple iPhone 17 event recap: Reactions to iPhone Air, Apple Watches, AirPods Pro 3, more

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 11 at 4:55 p.m. ET

ZDNET received an opportunity to check out the iPhone 17 Professional and Professional Max cameras whereas at Apple Park this week, and early samples are trying good to this point.

My colleague Jason Hiner captured the picture above with the brand new 48MP telephoto sensor at 8x optical zoom. For the way vivid the Cupertino workplace may be, there’s surprisingly no harsh glare or overexposed areas.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 11 at 4:42 p.m. ET

and…it survived!

In a current interview with Apple’s senior management, Tom’s Information editor-in-chief Mark Spoonauer was permitted to forcefully bend the iPhone Air. The gadget, strengthened with a titanium band much like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, confirmed a slight flex however rapidly returned to its unique form.

The brand new design retains the telephone light-weight and durable. Whereas the iPhone Air seems to have prevented a “bendgate” repeat, its true sturdiness might be seen when it is in shoppers’ palms.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 11 at 12:30 p.m. ET

In the event you preordered circumstances and equipment to your new iPhone 17 — and also you occur to reside close to a neighborhood distribution middle — there is a excessive probability they’re going to be delivered as early as at present.

My colleague Jason Hiner acquired his order of TechWoven circumstances for the iPhone 17 Professional and Professional Max simply this morning!

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 7:19 p.m. ET

Among the finest new digicam options on the iPhone 17 collection permits you to seize with the rear and entrance cameras concurrently. It is a vlogging characteristic I’ve seen on competing Android telephones, and I can see lots of people utilizing it when recording stay performances and live shows. In any case, the reactions to these moments are simply as precious as what’s in entrance of the digicam.

Take a look at Jason Hiner’s take a look at footage under.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 2:40 p.m. ET

In response to Apple’s technical specs page for the brand new AirPods Professional 3, the wi-fi earbuds will ship and not using a charging cable within the field. This implies customers must use an current USB-C cable or wi-fi charging dock to energy the equipment.

At this cut-off date, are we extra forgiving of those omissions? I personally stash away most of my new USB-C cables, as one or two are sufficient to energy my main gadgets. However when you’re upgrading from the unique AirPods Professional, anticipate to have to purchase a charger to go along with it.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 1:29 p.m. ET

Forward of Friday’s preorder window, I am seeing a number of service promotions beginning to floor, together with this latest one from Verizon. It slashes off $1,100 — equal to the price of an iPhone 17 Professional at retail value — if you commerce in an eligible smartphone and are on an Limitless knowledge plan.

That is par for the course relating to service offers, as AT&T and T-Cell are operating comparable packages. As at all times, it’s best to learn the high quality print when accepting service offers, because the smallest of errors can accrue charges and different bills.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 11:05 a.m. ET

We formally stay in a world the place you should buy an iPhone from the Apple retailer for $2,000. The configuration is an iPhone 17 Professional Max with 2TB of inner storage. That is not together with Apple Care and any equipment.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 9:42 a.m. ET

We have been speculating all yr whether or not or not Apple would improve the costs of iPhones, and it did! But in addition, probably not.

The $999 iPhone Air has changed the $899 iPhone 16 Plus, however I would not contemplate the Air a direct successor to the latter — it is a completely completely different idea of a telephone, with an innovation tax to go along with.

The $1,099 iPhone 17 Professional prices $100 greater than its predecessor however now comes with 256GB of base storage as a substitute of 128GB. Apple has basically eliminated the 128GB configuration this yr. That is all.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 10 at 6:46 a.m. ET

In the event you’re break up between the most recent iPhones and competing Android fashions, we have lined the most important variations under. Extra tales to return!

By Nina Raemont, Wearables Editor at Sept. 9, 9:34 p.m. ET

The Apple Watch SE 3 is the underdog that few anticipated Apple to announce at its annual {hardware} launch. It does not have the superior {hardware} that its siblings boast – Apple consists of the S10 chip it developed for 2024’s Collection 10 smartwatch lineup. 

It lacks among the hotter options the Apple Watch Collection 11 or Apple Watch Extremely 3 pack, like Hypertension Detection or Satellite tv for pc Connectivity. Nevertheless it’s shaping as much as be worth for smartwatch curious shoppers. I sit up for testing the be careful to seek out out for myself. 

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 8:20 p.m. ET

Yearly, when a brand new iPhone launches, I get requested, “Ought to I improve from my present telephone?” And yearly, I reply by asking if the most recent options make a dramatic distinction to how they use their telephone.

Listed below are the most important new options you will get by upgrading to the iPhone 17 collection in comparison with earlier generations.

• From iPhone 16 collection: A greater selfie digicam that may auto-frame the topic, a 120Hz show on the bottom mannequin, improved thermal cooling (Professional solely), and a sharper telephoto lens (Professional solely).
• From iPhone 15 collection: A Digital camera Management button, slimmer bezels and bigger shows, quicker USB-C charging speeds, and all of the above.
• From iPhone 14 collection: An Motion button, USB-C charging, an aluminum-forward design (Professional solely), and all of the above.
• From iPhone 13 collection: A Dynamic Island punch-hole digicam, eSIM help, and all of the above.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 3:42 p.m. ET

The hands-on photographs I’ve seen to this point of the iPhone 17 Professional in Cosmic Orange are giving me immense FOMO. It is so refreshing to see Apple department out of the usual black, white, and grayish hues and be extra experimental. However as at all times, if shoppers need extra of this, they’re going to need to vote with their wallets.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 4:31 p.m. ET

Whereas I’m not an orange individual and personal not one ounce of orange in my wardrobe or equipment, the Cosmic Orange shade is completely beautiful. As we mentioned within the workplace, the hands-on footage makes it evident that the colour is way much less of a visitors cone orange and extra of a copper-like shade.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 3:00 p.m. ET

Apple CEO Tim Cook dinner is on the ground and taking photographs with members of the press. Clearly, the ultraportability of the iPhone Air makes it fairly straightforward to carry up and take group selfies.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 2:16 p.m. ET

That is a wrap for the Apple launch livestream and occasion. Now, our ZDNET crew on the bottom is heading to the gadgets to get hands-on footage and insights. We’ll proceed to replace this stay weblog as these photographs, movies, and articles are available; plus, keep tuned for our occasion day evaluation.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 2:15 p.m. ET

Listed below are the iPhone 17 beginning costs, all of which include a base storage of 256GB now:

• iPhone 17: $799
• iPhone Air: $999
• iPhone 17 Professional: $1,099
• iPhone 17 Professional Max: $1,199

You possibly can preorder beginning this Friday, Sept. 12, at 5:00 am PT, and all telephones might be out there on the market beginning on Friday, Sept. 19.

By Nina Raemont, Editor / Sept. 9 at 2:09 p.m. ET

I have been wishing for sleep scores on the Apple Watch for a very long time, and I sit up for testing out the characteristic on the Collection 11. The characteristic brings a standard well being monitoring characteristic to Apple’s newest lineup of gadgets, and retains the tech big in competitors with its wearable rivals which have already carried out the characteristic into their gadgets.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 2:07 p.m. ET

All three iPhone 17 Professional cameras are actually 48MP and Fusion cameras, that means they’ve a number of efficient lengths. So the zoom digicam is now 4x with an 8x “optical-quality” zoom. Meaning Apple has truly downgraded the optical zoom from 5x to 4x. I am undecided how I really feel about that, however I am going to withhold judgement till I attempt it.

That mentioned, Apple famous it used the iPhone 17 Professional to movie the launch occasion, as a consequence of its superior video capabilities. The iPhone 17 Professional helps the extremely anticipated ProRes RAW seize and Genlock.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 2:00 p.m. ET

Lastly, the iPhone 17 Professional is right here. This time, it is made with aluminum as a substitute of titanium for a lighter but extra sturdy construct. The telephone options “the most important battery in an iPhone,” Apple says, runs on the identical A19 Professional chip because the iPhone Air, and options an improved thermal cooling system that spreads all through the telephone physique.

Water is sealed inside the vapor chamber to dissipate warmth and maintain efficiency (a 40% enchancment from the iPhone 16 Professional). In different phrases, the iPhone will run at peak ranges for longer whereas retaining extra battery life over time.

On the entrance, a brand new anti-reflective coating ought to enhance the display screen’s viewing angles, particularly when outdoor. All three cameras are 48MP fusion sensors, that means they will flex between numerous zoom ranges. The telephoto sensor, specifically, can seize at 8X optical high quality, thanks partially to the tetraprism design.

iPhone 17 Professional fashions will even characteristic the identical Middle Stage Entrance Digital camera because the iPhone 17. The anodized aluminum seems to be a unibody design, with curves that mix into each little nook of the iPhone. On the again is a Ceramic Protect layering that is extra sturdy than earlier generations. 

The iPhone 17 Professional will launch in solely three colours: Silver, Cosmic Orange, and Deep Blue. 

Apple used Ceramic Protect on the again of the 17 Professional, similar to the Air. It is 4x extra immune to cracks whereas being thinner general, providing extra room for the battery, which is the most effective (and largest) in any iPhone.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:57 p.m. ET

I at all times beloved the bumper circumstances on the iPhones — minimal, gentle, and nice safety — and I used to be critically bummed when Apple stopped making them. No third-party case maker ever picked up the gauntlet, which was a disgrace. These bumper circumstances additionally allowed the again of the telephone to point out by and show Apple’s design. I am thrilled that Apple is bringing again the bumper case for the iPhone Air — excellent selection! Let’s have a look at if they carry it to the Professional fashions as nicely.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:54 p.m. ET

Apple is making a giant deal in regards to the iPhone Air’s help for eSIM. Actually, it will be the primary iPhone to launch with eSIM solely globally. Beforehand, solely the US variations launched with eSIM, whereas different international locations’ iPhones supported bodily SIM playing cards. By decreasing the parts inside the telephone, Apple says it was capable of squeeze in a bigger battery.

Apple’s resolution to make the iPhone Air eSIM-only is partly logistical — there’s merely not sufficient room within the gadget to slot in a conventional SIM card subsequent to the battery.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:51 p.m. ET

iPhone Air has a 48MP fusion digicam system that’s meant to perform like a number of cameras in a single, together with a 12MP 2X telephoto. Another digicam options embody focus management, photographic types, and customized 28MM and 52MM lenses, which add 4 lenses to your digicam. The entrance options the aforementioned middle stage digicam at 12MP.

The battery life on the iPhone Air, supported by iOS 26 options and a considerate under-the-hood design, helps all-day battery life, in response to Apple. This consists of 40 hours of video playback when utilizing the Air’s specifically designed MagSafe battery pack. 

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:48 p.m. ET

The iPhone Air will characteristic a brand new N1 chip, Apple’s in-house silicon that helps Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread. This comes simply six months after Apple launched the C1 modem with the iPhone 16e. The iPhone Air will even characteristic an upgraded C1X variant, which the corporate says is way more energy environment friendly, however simply as sturdy in community connectivity.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:48 p.m. ET
Integrating Apple’s N1 and C1X chips into the iPhone Air and calling it probably the most environment friendly iPhone ever undoubtedly provides this product the sensation of being the futuristic iPhone, harking back to the iPhone X again in 2017.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:45 p.m. ET

The announcement of the iPhone Air received, by far, the most important response out of the group inside Steve Jobs Theater for the Apple Occasion. There’s real enthusiasm for this product. The gang particularly hollered — and there have been even some audible gasps — when the video got here up with the iPhone Air balancing on high of a finger. I am undecided individuals are going to be as excited after they be taught the digicam and battery life compromises, however the design itself generated loads of sturdy reactions.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:45 p.m. ET
Sabrina Ortiz, sitting subsequent to me, can not recover from how skinny the iPhone Air is — 5.6mm and with a 6.5″ always-on show — and I am anticipating many shoppers to really feel equally. For the primary time, the telephone is roofed with ceramic for improved sturdiness, making it as much as 5 instances extra resistant. Impressively, the digicam module is sculpted into the again cowl, so it melts into the remainder of the glass, decreasing the scale and bulk of the gadget. It is “a paradox you need to maintain to consider,” says Apple.

The body is made out of titanium for a skinny design. These supplies make the iPhone Air extra sturdy than another mannequin. The iPhone Air options the just-announced A19 Professional chip.

Apple mentioned the telephone comprises “MacBook Professional-levels of compute” and that it is “probably the most energy environment friendly iPhone we have ever made.”

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:38 p.m. ET

Apple utilizing AI and Middle Stage to routinely body your selfies received an enormous response from the stay viewers contained in the Steve Theater. There are clearly loads of creators on this crowd. 

That is the primary massive AI characteristic Apple introduced on the occasion. It is extra like machine studying and never generative AI, but it surely’s good to see Apple integrating quality-of-life options in good methods.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:46 p.m. ET

The iPhone 17 will run on an A19 chip with a 16-core Neural Engine, 5-core GPU, and improved on-device computing. The enhancements to how the iPhone computes lend themselves to extra gaming workloads, quicker on-device AI duties, and extra. A extra environment friendly processor additionally extends the iPhone 17 battery by 8 hours of video playback.

Apple says the next-gen 5-core GPU is designed to help higher gaming, particularly paired with the show’s upgraded 120Hz refresh fee.

Then there’s the brand new A19 Professional chip, which incorporates a 6-core CPU. Apple claims it’s the quickest CPU in any iPhone. It’s purported to allow battery effectivity for extra on a regular basis duties. The 5-core GPU additionally received a efficiency enhance, which makes it greatest for AI compute. There’s a neural accelerator constructed into every GPU core, excellent for GPU-intensive AI workloads.

The A19 Professional generates warmth, Apple admits — requiring an all-new cooling system to account for it.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:42 p.m. ET

The iPhone 17 will characteristic a 48MP essential digicam (that captures at 24MP binned, by default). It is nonetheless a 2x optical zoom — nothing extra — however I’ve at all times discovered the bottom iPhone digicam ok for zoom photographs. 

Apple has additionally upgraded the selfie digicam, calling it the “Middle Stage Entrance Digital camera,” with a wider area of view and a bigger sensor than final yr. Capturing a wider space permits customers to reframe their photographs, resembling swapping from panorama and portrait mode without having to rotate the telephone. Permitting you to carry the telephone vertically retains your eyes extra naturally centered on the lens.

By  Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:38 p.m. ET
Apple utilizing AI and Middle Stage to routinely body your selfies received an enormous response from the stay viewers contained in the Steve Theater. There are clearly loads of creators on this crowd. That is the primary massive AI characteristic Apple introduced on the occasion. It is extra like machine studying and never generative AI, but it surely’s good to see Apple integrating quality-of-life options in good methods.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 9 at 1:40 p.m. ET

The introduction of a 120Hz ProMotion show within the iPhone 17 received a giant response from the stay viewers inside Steve Jobs Theater. This has been lengthy overdue. Far cheaper aggressive telephones have featured 90Hz and 120Hz screens for years whereas the usual iPhone has been caught on 60Hz, which was simply not as good to take a look at every single day. The 120Hz display screen makes the base-level iPhone 17 much more aggressive.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:37 p.m. ET

Apple Launches its iPhone 17 in 5 colours: Lavender, Mist Blue, Black, White, and Sage. The brand new telephone options:

• A 6.3″ show with thinner borders
• 120 Hz refresh fee (a significant deal, for the primary time ever)
• 3,000 nits peak out of doors brightness, the best ever on the bottom mannequin
• Ceramic Protect 2, provides it thrice extra scratch resistance
• Seven-layer anti-reflective coating to scale back glare and distractions
• A19 chipset, which ought to assist on-device generative and huge language fashions (LLMs) run quicker

Apple mentioned that if you’re upgrading from an older iPhone, it’s best to see unimaginable speeds. The corporate additionally recapped iOS 26 upgrades, together with Dwell Translation and Visible Intelligence upgrades.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor /Sept. 9 at 1:36 p.m. ET

Apple wraps up its Apple Watch bulletins:

• Apple Watch SE 3 $249
• Apple Watch Collection 11 $399
• Apple Watch Extremely 3 $799

You possibly can pre-order all variations of the watch beginning at present, they usually’ll be out there on Sept. 19.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:35 p.m. ET

It is Apple Watch Extremely 3 time. This yr, the wearable incorporates a new show that makes use of a wide-angle OLED and LTPO 3, making it brighter to view. Apple says the bezels are thinner, too, permitting the watch to have a bigger display screen inside the similar physique as final yr.

Just like the Watch Collection 11, Extremely 3 helps 5G connectivity. Nevertheless it goes a step additional through the use of satellites for emergency messages, pings. and Discover My syncing. The Watch Extremely 3 can last as long as 42 hours, the longest ranking of any Apple Watch.

ZDNET Editor in Chief Jason Hiner says he is “been carrying Apple Watch Extremely every single day for the previous two years, and I am going to undoubtedly be upgrading to Apple Watch Extremely 3 for the larger display screen, the stronger 5G and satellite tv for pc connectivity, and the black shade.”

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:33 p.m. ET

The Apple Watch Collection 11 can last as long as 24 hours, is available in Jet Black, Rose Gold, and Area Grey, and is made with 100% aluminum. We’re seeing some traditional watch bands out there, together with Nike and Hermes-branded equipment.

The lineup has a bunch of up to date watch bands, together with some from fashionable manufacturers like Nike, and a Hermes band with a novel branded animated wallpaper.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:32 p.m. ET

Apple launched its third-generation Apple Watch SE. It options the S10 chip that helps a brand new always-on show. You possibly can play music straight by the speaker. 

The Apple Watch SE additionally options an 18-hour battery life and quick charging for the primary time — in quarter-hour of quick charging, customers can stand up to eight hours of regular use. It’s suitable with iOS 26, which opens it as much as superior options on par with the remainder of the lineup too.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:30 p.m. ET

Apple Watch Collection 11 now has Sleep Scores, which analyzes the way you sleep utilizing advanced algorithms. You possibly can see an in depth evaluation of how the rating was concluded.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:24 p.m. ET

The Apple Watch Collection 11 makes use of the optical blood sensor to trace and evaluation knowledge over a 30-day interval to seek out indicators of hypertension. Apple says it is anticipating FDA clearance “quickly.”

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:20 p.m. ET

Apple highlights how the Apple Watch affords life-saving options, forward of unveiling its new smartwatch lineup.

The corporate’s advertising for the Apple Watch is powerfully efficient, shifting past technical specs to share real-world testimonials of how the gadget has actually remodeled lives. This strategy transforms the watch from a gadget into an important piece of private well being and security know-how.

The Apple Watch Collection 11 would be the first of the wearable line to help 5G connectivity. It additionally options a number of new watch faces, together with Circulation (primarily based on Liquid Glass, the design aesthetic used throughout iOS 26) and “Exactograph,” a novel design that separates hours, minutes, and seconds.

The brand new launch is Apple’s thinnest and most comfy watch but, with a customized ceramic design coating utilized on the atomic stage that is twice as scratch-resistant.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief and Nina Raemont, Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:17 p.m. ET

Apple is including coronary heart fee sensing to the AirPods Professional 3, which was already within the Powerbeats Professional 2.

The Apple AirPods Professional 3 didn’t get the rumored temperature monitoring, which is a bummer since temperature may be taken very precisely from the ear. The wrist temperature monitoring on Apple Watch isn’t straightforward to entry and may be inaccurate. Including temperature to AirPods Professional 3 would have given Apple’s well being ecosystem a greater alternative to compete with good rings like Oura on this metric, so it is a missed alternative.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:10 p.m. ET

Impressively, Dwell Translation works between a number of AirPods Professional customers, with the translated audio broadcasting of their desired language. The characteristic runs on the iPhone’s current AI fashions.

Dwell translation on the AirPods Professional will decrease the amount of the speaker and supply a contextual translation, not simply particular person phrases. When paired with the iPhone, you’ll be able to converse naturally and get a translation to show on the display screen to the speaker.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:07 p.m. ET

The occasion kicked off with the AirPods Professional 3 launch. The earbuds have been designed with a multi-port acoustic structure which higher controls air move, producing higher general sound throughout music and calls alike.

The AirPods Professional 3 even have double the lively noise cancellation (ANC) from earlier fashions, and the characteristic is 4 instances simpler than the unique AirPods Professional. Dwell Translation powered by Apple Intelligence can also be coming to the brand new AirPods Professional.

Apple says AirPods Professional 3 will last as long as 8 hours with ANC on and 10 hours with Transparency mode on. That is 4 extra hours than the earlier era. They’re going to be out there beginning Sept. 19.

The brand new AirPods Professional can have a greater in-ear for customers. This consists of new ear suggestions in 5 sizes.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 1:03 p.m. ET

Apple CEO Tim Cook dinner kicks off the stay occasion along with his signature “Good morning.” He hints that at present’s bulletins will embody the AirPods, Apple Watch, and iPhone.

By Nina Raemont, Wearables Editor / Sept. 9 at 12:45 p.m. ET

We have made it to Steve Jobs Theater, the place Apple will unveil its newest {hardware} lineup in simply minutes. The theater is buzzing with pleasure as media and business leaders fill in.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 12:22 p.m. ET

Whereas the official gross sales dates stay unconfirmed, Apple has historically opened up preorders on the second Friday of Sept. (or Sept. 12 this yr). The official launch, that means when the telephones may be demoed and bought in shops, occurs the next Friday (or Sept. 19 this yr). 

Observe that Apple might regulate these dates and instances primarily based on product availability and stock.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 11:34 a.m. ET

Leaker Instant Digital on Weibo not too long ago posted a picture depicting each new iPhone 17 shade, from the Air to the Professional Max, and it coincides with different renders and case listings we have seen. If true, we could also be trying on the first orange-colored iPhone Professional, a sky blue end for the Air, and a few pastel choices for the usual mannequin.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 9 at 10:54 a.m. ET

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman predicted that there will not be loads of new AI launched at Apple’s occasion. Particularly, he mentioned the corporate didn’t “have quite a bit up its sleeve by way of AI — at the very least not within the close to future.”

In the event you’re ready for vital new AI options and upgrades, you could have to take action till the launch of the extremely anticipated Siri 2.0 — which is not slated to occur until spring of next year. Within the meantime, there are additionally the iOS 26 AI options introduced at WWDC to sit up for (extra on that in earlier entries under).

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 10:32 a.m. ET

The successor to the world’s most popular Bluetooth tracker is anticipated to launch at at present’s Apple occasion. Notable upgrades embody a brand new Extremely Wideband chip for extra exact monitoring, enhanced privateness options, and a longer-lasting battery. Hopefully, Apple retains the worth in the identical ballpark.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 9:47 a.m. ET

A Reddit user has found a Finest Purchase promotion that implies that new AirPods are, actually, coming. The provide, legitimate from Sept. 9 to Oct. 5, provides My Finest Purchase members a $20 low cost on the AirPods Pro 3, that are anticipated to be unveiled in the course of the Apple keynote at present.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 8:55 a.m. ET

The largest query mark going into at present’s occasion is iPhone pricing; whether or not or not we’ll see the primary improve to Apple’s handsets for the reason that iPhone 15 Professional Max (although it was justified with a storage improve).

This weekend, leaked training documents from a South Korean service firm recommended that iPhone 17 costs will keep principally the identical as final yr’s fashions. Here is the breakdown after conversions:

• iPhone 17: $799
• iPhone 17 Air (which replaces the Plus): $899
• iPhone 17 Professional: $999
• iPhone 17 Professional Max: $1,250

Notably, the Professional Max variant prices $50 extra, although these costs could also be particular to sure international locations and areas, like South Korea.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 8:37 a.m. ET

Whereas I not anticipate Apple to make main shifts to the iPhone Professional’s digicam system — it is a legislation of diminishing returns sort of factor — the rumored 48MP telephoto sensor does put a smile on my face. 

The improved optics ought to vastly profit photographers and videographers eager to seize at farther distances, with the potential of 8x optical zoom (versus digital) paving the best way for crisper and extra sensible photographs.

If Apple nails the telephoto digicam, the iPhone 17 Professional might compete nicely with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Extremely and Google Pixel 10 Professional, each of which have confirmed to be dependable long-distance shooters.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 9 at 8:27 a.m. ET

In Apple custom, the online retailer is down quickly in preparation for at present’s product releases. You possibly can anticipate the shop to be down — as in you will not be capable to purchase and take a look at something — till the top of the keynote. Contemplate it as safety for impulse buying habits!

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 8 at 9:21 p.m. ET

ZDNET’s Nina Raemont and I’ve landed in Cupertino and are prepared for this week’s massive occasion. Keep tuned for extra stay protection, together with hands-on photographs and movies.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 8 at 5:01 p.m. ET

Somebody has apparently found an unofficial iPhone 17 accent, and it is one you’d least anticipate. X person Sonny Dickson not too long ago posted photos of what seems to be to be a crossbody strap for the iPhone 17 collection, with a loop that seemingly attaches to the underside of a telephone case. It is orange, it is modern, and it’ll unquestionably be costly.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 8 at 3:17 p.m. ET

Whereas the precise particulars on the brand new Apple {hardware} stay a thriller till the occasion begins tomorrow, we already received the news on the entire iOS 26 Apple Intelligence updates at WWDC again in June. The AI options is probably not the flashiest, however lots of them will be sure you enhance the way you work together together with your telephone. A fast round-up of the options I’m trying ahead to probably the most may be discovered under:

• Visible Intelligence
• Actual-time translation
• AutoMix in Apple Music
• Shortcuts utilizing Apple Intelligence
• Maintain Help
• Spatial Photographs
• Exercise Buddy

The very best half in regards to the new options is that they don’t seem to be simply restricted to iPhone 17 customers; iPhone 15 Professional and iPhone 16 collection gadgets are supported too. You possibly can learn extra about what every characteristic does, and a few extra ones to sit up for right here: 7 helpful AI features launching in iOS 26 next week.

By Nina Raemont, Wearables Editor / Sept. 8 at 11:18 a.m. ET

Might Apple add coronary heart fee monitoring to its latest AirPods lineup? The Apple-owned Powerbeats Professional 2 unveiled earlier this yr with the characteristic, and the train earbuds share the AirPods Professional 2’s H2 chipset. It is not unreasonable to foretell the characteristic’s arrival in Apple’s newest earbuds. 

By Nina Raemont, Wearables Editor / Sept. 8 at 10:32 AM ET

Apple is releasing its new watch lineup amid a aggressive panorama of well being wearables. Its smartwatch launch tomorrow, which reportedly consists of the discharge of the Collection 11, Extremely 3, and probably an SE 3, might maintain its income momentum, which surpassed $100 billion in Q2, going, in response to Counterpoint Research. 

Counterpoint credit the “steady evolution” of the model’s well being and health-monitoring options for its income achievements. Apple might unveil extra well being developments at tomorrow’s occasion, as rumors a few new hypertension monitoring characteristic or AI-infused well being coaches swirl.

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 8 at 9:21 a.m. ET

Okay, so we’re doing this. A lot of Apple occasion protection incoming on ZDNET this week. What are you anticipating probably the most from Apple, or what do you need to know popping out of tomorrow’s iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods launch? Pontificate within the feedback under.

By Nina Raemont, Wearables Editor / Sept. 6 at 5:18 p.m. ET

Apple’s newest smartwatch software program, WatchOS 26, has given us just a few glimpses at what the Collection 11 is able to. Outdoors of these software program updates, I am retaining my eyes and ears open for rumors, murmurs, and whispers on Apple’s subsequent wearable. Listed below are seven options we’re presently .

• Sleep scores
• Elevated brightness on the Collection 11
• A bigger show on the Extremely 3
• A brand new processor and quicker chip
• Satellite tv for pc connectivity on the Extremely 3
• A revamped Well being app
• Blood strain monitoring

By Jason Hiner, Editor in Chief / Sept. 6 at 4:32 p.m. ET

Whereas the iPhone has just about the entire smartest AI apps out there from the most recent AI trailblazers, it lacks the sort of deep integration of AI options which might be solely out there on the intersection of the working system and the most recent {hardware}.

Listed below are 7 competing companies and options I would prefer to see Apple undertake with the iPhone 17:

• ChatGPT’s Voice Mode
• Pixel 10’s Professional Res Zoom
• Google’s Magic Cue
• Anthropic’s Deep Analysis
• Finest Take from Google Photographs
• A lot broader language help
• Google’s Conversational picture modifying

Whereas the delay in rolling out Apple Intelligence options might not have appeared to harm the iPhone in the course of the previous yr, Apple might want to shut the hole to keep away from the iPhone 17 feeling like a tool that is a step behind. As of proper now, Google could make a fairly sturdy case that it affords the neatest telephone cash should buy.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 6 at 4:02 p.m. ET

Leaks and rumors have recommended that the upcoming collection of Professional iPhones will characteristic a redesigned digicam bar, with the identical association of cameras within the upper-left nook as earlier fashions, flanked by extra sensors on the appropriate facet — all upheld by a protruding module. For telephone fans, suppose Poco M4 Pro design.

There will even be a two-toned portion of the again panel that features as a wi-fi charging space. If we get fortunate, Apple might even give us reverse wi-fi charging, a characteristic prevalent on Android flagships that lets you cost different Qi-supported gadgets when set on the again of the telephone.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 6 at 3:27 p.m. ET

An ultra-thin and lightweight iPhone can be refreshing to see from Apple, as its present four-iPhone lineup has remained in place for the reason that iPhone 12 collection in 2020. 

The iPhone 17 Air will reportedly characteristic a big show dimension, a titanium body, and a revamped digicam bar with solely a single sensor.

Additionally: If these iPhone 17 Air rumors are real, my old phone is about to be retired

Apple can also be anticipated to switch the iPhone 17 Plus with the iPhone 17 Air, as shoppers have proven the least curiosity within the former mannequin. This probably positions the Air mannequin as each the most effective massive iPhone that does not value as a lot because the Professional Max and probably the most transportable for individuals who need that.

Zoom out a bit, and also you may even be trying on the beginnings of what an iPhone Fold expertise could possibly be like in a yr or two.

By Kerry Wan, Managing Editor / Sept. 6 at 3:02 p.m. ET

Whereas rumors of the upcoming merchandise have been swirling over the previous yr, no preview is extra official than Apple’s occasion invitation graphic, stuffed with sufficient Easter eggs to maintain followers excited and journalists engaged. 

This yr, we’re seeing an Apple emblem shimmering in blue, orange, purple, and yellow, adopted by the phrases “Awe dropping.” My three theories for what the design implies are…

• iPhone 17 Professional colours: Anticipated to include Orange, Black, Silver, and Darkish Blue
• A vapor chamber for cooling: This yr’s Apple occasion invitation additionally resembles a warmth map — reds and oranges trace at heat, whereas the cooler blues recommend temperature regulation. That could possibly be a delicate nod to imminent thermal enhancements.
• Different temperature options: We might probably see physique temperature and blood strain monitoring throughout new AirPods and Apple Watches.

By Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor / Sept. 6 at 3:00 p.m. ET

Apple has confirmed through social media that this yr’s fall occasion will happen on Sept. 9 at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Choose members of the press, together with ZDNET’s Jason Hiner and Nina Raemont, will attend in individual, however the public might be invited to affix just about through livestream.

Whereas Apple’s September occasion was open to a stay viewers, consisting of members of the media, business analysts, workers, and companions, the corporate additionally held a livestream in order that the general public might tune in and watch its latest merchandise launch in actual time.

The livestream was hosted on Apple’s main website and YouTube, opening as much as viewers a number of minutes earlier than begin time. This yr, the occasion kicked off at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET, with replays being broadcasted at this level.