‘Made in India’ iPhone 15 to Watch Ultra 2: What to expect (and not) from Apple’s ‘Wonderlust’ event

iPhone 15 Apple Event live updates

Apple’s launch events are a masterclass in making hype for new products. Millions of people watch Apple’s events online, particularly when the Cupertino, California-based company launches new iPhones in the fall.

This year’s launch invites have a tagline “Wonderlust”, although it doesn’t necessarily spill the beans on what’s about to come. The event may not be as revolutionary as previous ones, with Apple expected to unveil the newest iPhones and Apple Watches with evolutionary features.

The Indian Express will cover the launch event from Cupertino, and you can follow a live blog on indianexpress.com.

Before that, we have rounded up a list of products you can expect (and not) to be announced during the event.

iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max

Without a doubt, all eyes will be on the iPhone 15 series during the “Wonderlust” event. Apple is expected to launch four new models, a similar playbook that’s been a staple for a few years. That means you can expect four iPhone 15 models: the regular iPhone 15 and a larger iPhone 15 Plus, as well as the standard iPhone 15 Pro and a larger iPhone 15 Pro Max.

This year, the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max will get the maximum attention. Apple’s high-end models have performed exceedingly well in markets like China, bringing more revenue per iPhone. At the same time, the expansion of the premium smartphone market in a market like India opens up new avenues for Apple and increases its chance to sell high-end iPhone models to wealthy consumers.

New Pro models are likely to get improved form factors, updated processors, and better cameras. For the first time, high-end models could shift to titanium material, replacing stainless steel used in previous phones. If brought in, this could make the iPhone more durable and luxurious to feel in the user’s hand. Both devices will become slimmer and lighter, thanks to a new low-injection pressure over-moulding (LIPO) display. We are hearing the bezel size will be shrunk further, allowing Apple to fit a larger screen in a similar framework as the iPhone 14.

Apple is aggressively eyeing emerging markets like India for the next wave of growth. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

But the biggest change that consumers could see when they use the iPhone 15 Pro, especially the biggest and most expensive Pro Max model, will be on the camera side. The bigger Pro model is rumoured to get a periscope lens that will be capable of capturing distant subjects with improved focus and clarity.

A faster, more efficient A17 Bionic chip could still be reserved for high-end models as well as a new Action button that replaces the traditional alert slider. Both high-end phones may also include a USB-C for data transfer and charging, marketing the end of the Lightning connector. Expect only the Pro models to feature faster charging and transfer speeds than the non-Pro models.

One question that still has no answer is whether Apple will raise the prices of high-end iPhones. Analysts are divided at this point, and we will have an answer only when Apple announces the new iPhones.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro concept render. (Image credit: Jonas Daehnert)

iPhone 15 and 15 Plus

It’s not that only the high-end iPhones could get all the new features. The standard iPhone 15 models, including the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, are critical to Apple’s bottom line. After all, both baseline models will help shift Apple to sell iPhones in millions.

This year, the regular iPhone 15 and a larger Plus model may get some features from the last generation Pro models. For the first time, the non-pro models will likely get a facelift of sorts with Apple’s signature Dynamic Island, the pill-shaped area that replaced the front notch on the iPhone. We are also expecting a 48-megapixel lens, an upgrade from a 12-megapixel camera, which results in capturing shots with more details. The USB-C port could also be a part of the standard iPhone 15 series.

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Apple Watch Series 9

Don’t expect any major change in design and features when Apple announces the Watch Series 9. Apple likely upgraded the chip inside the new Watch Series 9 alongside improved health sensors. Considering the Apple Watch’s anniversary next year, Apple may unveil totally new hardware only next year.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 is expected to get a subtle upgrade this year. (Image credit: Nandagopal Rajan/Indian Express)

Apple Watch Ultra 2

It’s not a total surprise if you follow how Apple makes changes to its products. The introduction of a high-end titanium Ultra model last year was a shift in Apple’s Watch line, bringing a premium tier for enthusiasts.

While the Apple Watch Ultra is still a new product, Cupertino may add a few changes here and there in its sequel. Details remain scarce on what the new features will be, but Apple is rumoured to add topographical maps to the Ultra which is important to hikers and explorers. Solar charging is another feature that could be a perfect fit for a device like this.

AirPods Pro USB-C case

There’s a good chance that new AirPods could get a mention at Apple’s “Wonderlust” event. No, Apple won’t reveal a new pair of AirPods Pro. Instead, it may come with a USB-C port. Small update for sure, but AirPods’ shift from the lightning-based charging standard to USB-C is in line with its new iPhones.

The iPad Pro is said to get a massive upgrade in the form of an OLED display and an improved Magic keyboard in 2024. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

No new iPad Pros, iPad Air/mini

If you are planning to buy a new iPad or waiting for Apple to announce a refreshed iPad Pro, you have to wait until next year. Insiders expect Apple to unveil a revamped iPad Pro in 2024, which will be the biggest upgrade the high-end tablet will get in years. As far as the iPad Air/mini is concerned, Apple may announce new models but not during Tuesday’s fall event.

Traditionally, Apple holds a separate event in October to refresh its iPads. But 2023 has been a slow year for iPads and tablets in general. Sales of iPads have seen sliding for a few quarters, with experts now warning Apple to relook at its tablet strategy and launch new models with desired new features and upgrades.

The Indian Express will be covering the Apple event live from Apple Park next week. Buy an Express subscription to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the insights.