Week 359 was posted by Charanjit Chana on 2024-09-09.
While I planned to watch as always, I wasn't expecting much at all across the iPhone and Apple Watch line ups. The Apple Watch Ultra already introduced a new form factor two years ago so it felt unlikely we would see the regular Apple Watches overhauled.
AirPods
Starting with the least interesting, but decent enough update, The 4th generation AirPods now have the option of Active Noise Cancellation and come in a smaller case that boasts better battery life.
The AirPods Max gets USB-C charging (finally) and the AirPods Pro can test your hearing.
Apple Watch Series 10
Nice update that somehow sees the regular Apple Watches get a bigger screen and faster charging than the Apple Watch Ultra 2. I never felt my Series 2 was too thick and my Apple Watch Ultra never looks or feels bulky so not sure how necessary shaving a millimetre off is, that could have been used to meaningfully increase the battery life.
The screen also boasts a wider aperture for each pixel meaning it's easier to see at more angles. The Apple Watch Ultra's flat face already made that pretty easy so for the model's further down the line up, it's a welcome addition. The Series 10 also gets screen updates every second, rather than every minute, but if that's at the expense of a bit of battery life, I'm not interested.
iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 gets a more sensible camera arrangement on the back, and improved sensors too. There are now 3 lens options in the camera app (plus macro options) which make it a pretty complete camera. Apple Inelligence is here, but already announced at WWDC '24.
Overall, a solid update but I'll save thoughts on my favourite feature once we're passed the iPhone 16 Pro...
iPhone 16 Pro
The 5x zoom comes to both Pro models this year and there are a whole load of updates to the Camera app for grading and Photographic Styles, which is a feature I've never used...
While the iPhone 16 jumps two generations to the A18 chip, the Pro models get an A18 Pro. There's better battery life and improved MagSafe too across all iPhone models.
Camera Control
This is not just a button for focusing, which is what the rumours were pointing at, but a multi-function button for really push the Camera app to the max.
The Camera Control 'button' does bring a two-stage shutter to the iPhone but it's more than that. Press, click or swipe through various options and functions. Change the aperture, choose different controls or double click for more settings.
Truly a killer feature for all phone models that has me craving an earlier than normal upgrade.
Tags: apple, apple watch, iphone