At its annual September product announcement event, Apple unleashed the much-anticipated iPhone 14, the second generation AirPods and the very desirable Apple Watch Ultra.
For the first time since Covid, the company invited tech writers back to the Apple Campus in Cupertino. Australian journalists on the ground in California covering the event included Stephen Fenech from Tech Guide and Trevor Long reporting for Nine and EFTM.
Go Pro – iPhone 14 reveal
Apple announced iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, the most advanced Pro lineup ever, featuring Dynamic Island — a new design that introduces an intuitive way to experience iPhone — and the Always-On display. Powered by A16 Bionic, the fastest chip ever in a smartphone, iPhone 14 Pro introduces a new class of pro camera system, with the first-ever 48MP Main camera on iPhone featuring a quad-pixel sensor, and Photonic Engine, an enhanced image pipeline that dramatically improves low-light photos.
The company said the groundbreaking advancements make iPhone even more indispensable for everyday tasks, creative projects, and now even emergency situations with features such as Emergency SOS via satellite and Crash Detection. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in four new finishes: deep purple, silver, gold, and space black.
Pre-orders begin Friday, September 9 at 10pm AEST, with availability beginning Friday, September 16.
If you don’t go Pro
Apple also announced new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, featuring two sizes — 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches — in a design featuring camera upgrades and groundbreaking safety capabilities. iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus take impressive photos and video with a powerful camera system featuring new Main and front TrueDepth cameras, the Ultra Wide camera for unique perspectives, and Photonic Engine — an enhanced image pipeline.
Both models include the A15 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU, which offers improved performance and efficiency for demanding workloads, and is designed with privacy and security built in.
iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus introduce critical safety capabilities such as Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite, a first in the industry. And with improved battery life, industry-leading durability features, and super-fast 5G, this iPhone lineup is more advanced than ever before. iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus will be available in midnight, blue, starlight, purple, and (PRODUCT)RED1 finishes.
Second gen AiPods Pro
Also announced was the second generation of AirPods Pro, the most advanced AirPods ever. With the power of the new H2 chip, AirPods Pro unlock breakthrough audio performance — including major upgrades to Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode — while also offering a unique way to experience Spatial Audio that’s even more immersive. New features include Touch control for media playback and volume adjustments directly from the stem, along with longer battery life, a brand-new charging case, and an additional ear tip size for a better fit.
Watch Series 8 and new Watch SE
Apple introduced Apple Watch Series 8 and the new Apple Watch SE, with groundbreaking technology and performance, and important safety innovations to the two best-selling smartwatches.
Apple Watch Series 8 features the traditional design of Apple Watch, including a large, Always-On Retina display and a strong crack-resistant front crystal. With all-day 18-hour battery life, Apple Watch Series 8 builds on best-in-class health and safety features like the ECG app and fall detection by introducing temperature-sensing capabilities, retrospective ovulation estimates, Crash Detection, and international roaming.
The new Watch SE delivers the core Watch experience, including Activity tracking, high and low heart rate notifications, and Emergency SOS, as well as the new Crash Detection feature and a completely redesigned back case.
Yes please – Apple Watch Ultra
Apple also revealed Apple Watch Ultra with a new design and a wide range of features built for endurance, exploration, and adventure. Apple Watch Ultra introduces a 49mm titanium case and flat sapphire front crystal that reveals the biggest and brightest Apple Watch display yet.
A customizable Action button offers instant access to a wide range of useful features. Apple Watch Ultra has the best battery life of any Apple Watch, reaching up to 36 hours during normal use. Additionally, a new low-power setting, ideal for multi-day experiences, can extend battery life to reach up to 60 hours. The Wayfinder watch face is designed specifically for the larger Apple Watch Ultra display and includes a compass built into the dial, with space for up to eight complications. Apple Watch Ultra also brings three new bands — Trail Loop, Alpine Loop, and Ocean Band — offering unique design features that provide a secure and comfortable fit for every adventure.
Visit the Australian Apple Store to preview and order the new gear.