Three hours after releasing the second betas of iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3, Apple has pulled the updates from the Developer Center and over the air, meaning they are no longer available to download and install.
Apple has removed the iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 betas after a number of people reported that the software is bricking devices. According to reports on the MacRumors forums, Twitter, and Mastodon, some iPhone owners who updated found their devices stuck in a boot loop.
The only fix to the issue appears to be restoring a stuck device, which is why Apple has pulled the update. Once the bug is addressed, Apple will re-release the beta.
There are reports that suggest the iOS 17.3 boot loop bug could be related to the Back Tap setting. A log shared by developer Guilherme Rambo indicates that a Back Tap setting caused his device to crash, and there have been several other affected users who have Back Tap enabled in some capacity.
Some others who had Back Tap enabled were able to install the update, and others who did not have the feature on had the booting issue, so it is not entirely clear how Back Tap is involved.
Last month, many Apple Music subscribers reported that the "Add Playlist Songs" setting was broken on the iPhone, iPad, and sometimes the Mac. After a user toggled off the setting, the bug could cause it to turn back on, resulting in any songs that a user added to a playlist being added to their music library in an unwanted manner.
Fortunately, it appears that Apple quickly addressed the bug with a server-side fix, and users are no longer impacted by this issue. Given it was a server-side fix, users do not need to update their devices to a newer software version for it to apply.
Apple never publicly acknowledged the bug, so the underlying cause is unclear.
The second beta of iOS 17.3 that Apple released today is causing major issues for some iPhone owners, so users that have not yet installed the new software may want to hold off.
As noted by reports on the MacRumors forums, Twitter, and Mastodon, some iPhone owners who have attempted to update to iOS 17.3 beta 2 have found their devices stuck in a boot loop with a blank black screen that has a frozen spinning wheel.
Restoring to the prior version of iOS 17.3 or the iOS 17.2.1 release software appears to address the problem, but users who do not have a backup may have issues with the restore process.
Not all iPhone users appear to be affected, as some iPhones updated to iOS 17.3 beta 2 have come through fine.
Apple has not yet commented on the bug, but it is likely the second iOS 17.3 beta will be pulled in the near future until the issue can be addressed.
Amazon is discounting an array of Apple Watches today, including the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Although none are at all-time low prices, these are the best discounts we've tracked since the Black Friday shopping season.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Apple Watch Series 9
Starting with the Apple Watch Series 9, Amazon has the 41mm GPS device for $349.00 in three Aluminum colors, down from $399.00. The 45mm GPS device is on sale for $379.00 in every Aluminum color, down from $429.00.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is Apple's newest mainline wearable device. It shares the same look as the previous generation model, but includes a faster S9 chip, brighter display, and new features like Double Tap.
Amazon has the 40mm GPS Apple Watch SE for $199.00, down from $249.00, and the 44mm GPS Apple Watch SE for $229.00, down from $279.00. Both models are available in three Aluminum colors: Midnight, Silver, and Starlight.
The Apple Watch SE is Apple's low-cost option in the Apple Watch lineup, and it'll get the job done for most people who want a simple fitness tracker. It lacks the Series 9's health sensors like ECG, blood oxygen, and temperature sensing.
Finally, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has dropped to $749.00 on Amazon, down from $799.00. This one is available in a large collection of colors and band styles, and it's just about $10 away from the all-time low price.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is Apple's most rugged wearable, and compared to the previous generation it has an improved GPS, more durable display, extra long battery life, and more.
Apple today seeded the second betas of upcoming iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 updates to developers for testing purposes, with the updates available three weeks after the release of the first iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 betas.
Registered developers are able to opt into the betas by opening up the Settings app, going to the Software Update section, tapping on the "Beta Updates" option, and toggling on the iOS 17 or iPadOS 17 Developer Beta. An Apple ID associated with a developer account is required to download and install the beta.
iOS 17.3 introduces a Stolen Device Protection feature that limits access to your private information in case someone obtains both your iPhone and your passcode. When activated, it requires Face ID or Touch ID identity verification to do things like accessing passwords in iCloud Keychain, turning off Lost Mode, making purchases through Safari with saved payment credentials, and more.
There are also features that require verification and have a one-hour delay to access, such as changing an Apple ID passcode, an iPhone passcode, turning off Find My, and turning off Face ID. More details can be found in our article on Stolen Device Protection.
The update also adds collaborative Apple Music playlists, a feature that lets Apple Music subscribers share playlists with others to build shared song lists. Collaborative playlists are simple to use, can be shared with a link, and support emoji reactions.
Apple is expected to release iOS 17.3 later in January.
Apple today seeded the second beta of an upcoming macOS Sonoma 14.3 update to developers for testing purposes, with the software coming three weeks after the release of the first macOS Sonoma 14.3 beta.
Registered developers can opt-in to the beta through the Software Update section of the System Settings app. Under Beta updates, toggle on the macOS Sonoma Developer Beta. Note that an Apple ID associated with an Apple Developer account is required to get the beta.
We don't yet know what features are included in macOS Sonoma 14.3, and there were no notable changes discovered in the first beta.
Apple today seeded the second beta of an upcoming watchOS 10.3 update to developers for testing purposes, with the beta coming three weeks after the release of the first watchOS 10.3 beta.
To install the watchOS 10.3 update, developers will need to open the Apple Watch app, go to the Software Update section under "General" in Settings, and toggle on the watchOS 10 Developer Beta. An Apple ID linked to a developer account is required.
Once beta updates have been activated, watchOS 10.3 can be downloaded under the same Software Update section. To install software, an Apple Watch needs to have 50 percent battery life and it must be placed on an Apple Watch charger.
There's no word yet on the new features that might be included in watchOS 10.3, and no notable new features were found in the first beta.
Apple today seeded the second beta of an upcoming tvOS 17.3 update to developers for testing purposes, with the beta coming two weeks after the release of the first tvOS 17.3 beta.
Registered developers are able to download the tvOS 17.3 update by opting in to the beta through the Settings app on the Apple TV. A registered developer account is required.
tvOS updates are often minor in scale compared to other operating system updates, focusing primarily on bug fixes and smaller improvements rather than notable outward-facing changes. We don't yet know what's included in tvOS 17.3.
Apple shares some information on tvOS releases in its tvOS support document, which is updated after each tvOS launch, but Apple does not provide notes during beta testing.
Though we don't always know what's new in tvOS betas, we let MacRumors readers know when new updates are available so those who are developers can download new software upon release.
While the majority of Apple's product lineup has been updated over the past few years, there are a handful of devices and accessories that are quite old. Below, we highlight seven of the oldest and most obscure products that Apple still sells in 2024.
Many of these products are unlikely to be updated ever again, and it's unclear how long Apple will continue to sell them on its online store.
SuperDrive
Introduced alongside the original MacBook Air in 2008, the USB SuperDrive is an external CD/DVD drive. It remains available on Apple's online store for $79, but you'll need a USB-A to USB-C adapter to use it with a modern MacBook.
For just $9.99, you can own Apple's tiny MagSafe to MagSafe 2 converter. This adapter allows Apple's very-old Thunderbolt Display to charge an also-very-old MacBook Pro or MacBook Air equipped with a MagSafe 2 connector.
For those counting, Apple moved on to MagSafe 3 in 2021.
EarPods With 3.5mm Plug
Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone starting with the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus back in 2016, but it continues to sell wired EarPods with a 3.5mm headphone plug for $19. You can also get EarPods with Lightning or USB-C.
Hey, Macs still have a headphone jack.
30-Pin to USB Cable
Still rocking out with an older iPod or iPhone? Apple has you covered with its 30-pin to USB cable, featuring breakthrough USB 2.0 technology from the early 2000s.
Pro tip: you can get one for much cheaper on Amazon if you really need one.
Mac Pro Security Lock Adapter
Want to keep your 2013 Mac Pro secure in 2024? Apple's $49 adapter lets you attach a compatible Kensington lock to the computer.
We're honestly surprised Apple still sells this one.
Link Bracelet
Apple hasn't updated the stainless steel Link Bracelet since the original Apple Watch was released in 2015. The band is still listed in its original 38mm and 42mm sizes for $449.
Mac Pro Wheels
For the low price of $699, you can add wheels to your 2019 or newer Mac Pro tower, allowing it to roll around. Or, you could install them on a skateboard.
Amazon is kicking off the new year with an all-time low price on Apple's AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C, available for $189.99, down from $249.00. There's an estimated delivery date of January 7 for most residences in the United States.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
We haven't tracked an all-time low price on this model of the AirPods Pro 2 since around early December. This is largely the same model as the AirPods Pro 2 from 2022, with the addition of a USB-C port on the MagSafe Charging Case, instead of Lightning.
A few other noteworthy AirPods deals include the AirPods 3 for $149.99, down from $169.00, and the AirPods 2 for $99.00, down from $129.00. Stock on the AirPods 3 has begun to dwindle with delivery into mid January, but the AirPods 2 has the same estimates as the AirPods Pro 2.
Keep up with all of this week's best discounts on Apple products and related accessories in our dedicated Apple Deals roundup.
Apple's Vision Pro headset will launch in the last week of January, a sketchy online report coming out of China claims.
The information comes from Wall Street Insights, a Chinese investor news service with an unproven track record for Apple rumors. The website claims to have obtained exclusive information suggesting that the Vision Pro will launch on Saturday, January 27 in the United States. While the report clearly says that the launch is set to occur on a date that falls on a Saturday in the United States, there is a chance that the website is actually referring to January 27 in China, which falls on Friday, January 26 in the United States – a much more likely date for the launch of the Vision Pro.
Apple has rarely launched any of its hardware products on Saturdays, so it seems very unlikely that the Vision Pro headset would be the first. The company likely prefers to launch products on weekdays to align with normal business hours, ensuring maximum media coverage and stock market reaction. Friday, January 26 is likely also a more accurate interpretation since Apple overwhelmingly chooses Fridays to launch its new devices.
Apple simply says that the Vision Pro headset will launch "early" this year and has not yet announced any specific time frame for pre-orders and the product's launch. Oft-accurate Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuorecently said that he expects the Vision Pro to hit shelves in late January or early February, which effectively lines up with this latest report from China. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, on the other hand, has been firmer in saying that Apple is planning the device's retail launch for February.
Last Friday, we shared our annual What to Expect Guide that covers everything we're expecting to see from Apple in 2024, based on current rumors and historical product release information.
We're going to see the launch of the Vision Pro early in the year, followed by new OLED iPad Pro models, a new version of the AirPods, an iPad Air in a new size, an Apple Watch that has blood pressure monitoring and sleep detection, and of course, refreshed iPhone 16 models with a host of new features.
While we know what we're expecting to see from Apple in 2024, we want to hear from the MacRumors community. What are you hoping to see Apple release this year?
Are you looking forward to generative AI? Crossing your fingers for new iPhone features? What would you like to see in iOS 18? Will you buy Apple's Vision Pro headset?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and take a look at our What to Expect Guide to see an overview of the current rumors. We'll be hearing a lot more about Apple's 2024 product plans in the coming months, and we'll have in-depth coverage at MacRumors.com.
If you want to discuss Apple's upcoming products, our MacRumors forums are an excellent resource, plus they're a great place to get help on current Apple products, software, and so much more.
We'd like to thank our readers and our forum members for making MacRumors the number one source for Apple news, rumors, and advice. MacRumors celebrated its 23rd birthday this year, and that's thanks to our dedicated supporters. We are looking forward to another year of rumors and product launches in 2024. Happy New Year!
2024 is shaping up to be a busy year for Apple with a large number of important new releases due across the company's product lines, but there are some noticeable absences from its rumored plans.
Using information from various analysts and reliable sources, here's everything we're no longer expecting Apple to release this year.
iPhone SE 4
While Apple was previously rumored to be planning the launch of the fourth-generation iPhone SE for 2024, the company is now widely expected to release the device in 2025.
Production of the second-generation AirTag tracker was apparently due to kick off in the fourth quarter of 2024, but the latest forecast from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that the accessory will not reach mass production and be released until 2025.
According to Kuo, the second-generation AirTag will be part of a new spatial computing ecosystem that Apple is building, with the Vision Pro serving as the core to integrate other devices. A new AirTag would likely incorporate Apple's second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that debuted in the iPhone 15 models, allowing for even more precise tracking at longer distances.
MicroLED Apple Watch Ultra
The first Apple device to offer a microLED display will apparently be an upcoming Apple Watch Ultra model released in late 2025 or 2026. In fact, Apple may not update the Apple Watch Ultra in 2024 and hold off for the significant display upgrade the following year.
Apple's plan to bring a microLED display to the Apple Watch Ultra is very widely corroborated, starting with a report from display analyst Ross Young in January 2023. The microLED display is expected to be 2.12-inches in size, a 10% increase over the display of the current Apple Watch Ultra.
The advanced display technology offers improved brightness, color reproduction, dynamic range, viewing angles, and efficiency, making images look more like they are "painted" atop the display glass. The project is part of Apple's plan to reduce its reliance on Samsung as a supplier while yielding benefits from engineering its own displays in-house, just like its chip technology.
Apple is still rumored to be working on a high-end "iMac Pro" model with a 32-inch mini-LED display and a larger selection of ports.
Despite the discontinuation of the iMac Pro and any iMac models larger than 24-inches in 2021, Apple is still said to have plans to launch a substantially bigger and more powerful iMac model.
While Bloomberg's Mark Gurmanfloated the possibility of the machine launching in late 2024, 2025 may be a more likely time frame. Ming-Chi Kuo has similarly said that the new iMac Pro will launch in 2025, so the 24-inch iMac may well continue to be the only Apple all-in-one desktop available this year.
Foldable iPhone and iPad
Apple has been known to be working on foldable display technology for many years, filing multiple patents related to the technology, but a foldable iPhone or iPad still seems to be quite some time away.
Rumors in September 2020 indicated that Samsung was providing foldable display samples to Apple for a future foldable iPhone, but there had been no strong indication that Apple was planning to use Samsung's technology until recently.
In 2021, Bloomberg claimed that Apple had started "early work" on an iPhone with a foldable display, but that it had not committed to releasing a foldable device at that time. Development in 2021 had not expanded beyond a display, and Apple did not have full foldable iPhone prototypes.
Ming-Chi Kuo initially said that Apple would introduce a foldable iPhone in 2024, but in 2022, he revised his prediction and said that Apple is unlikely to unveil a foldable iPhone until 2025 or later. Display analyst Ross Young has also suggested 2025 is the earliest that we might see a foldable iPhone.
Apple is expected to bring a foldable iPad to market before a foldable iPhone, but for the time being, the company is said to be focused on expanding OLED displays throughout the iPad and Mac lineups and considering the potential of offering a foldable iPad even further in the future.
Apps can play a pivotal role in helping to reach new goals, form habits, or simply improve personal productivity – here's five you should consider adopting going into 2024.
Each app we've chosen for this list has a unique ability to aid Apple device users in various aspects of personal and professional development. From sophisticated task management to habit formation, these apps offer a wide range of functionalities tailored to meet the diverse needs of users seeking to make the most out of the upcoming year.
Things 3 ($9.99 for iPhone and Apple Watch, $19.99 for iPad, and $49.99 for Mac): Things 3 is a popular task manager designed for Apple devices, offering a more robust feature set compared to Apple's default Reminders app. It stands out for its elegant and user-friendly interface and powerful features like project planning, deadlines, Markdown support, and more. These capabilities make it an outstanding tool for anyone looking to bring more structure to the tasks in their personal and professional life at the start of the new year.
Obsidian (free): Obsidian is a versatile Markdown note-taking application that surpasses the capabilities of Apple Notes with its distinctive approach to personal knowledge management and plug-ins. Unlike most note-taking apps, Obsidian specializes in linking thoughts and ideas through a network of interconnected notes, creating a personal knowledge base that grows and evolves over time. Obsidian's ability to map out and visually connect goals, plans, and ideas could be incredibly valuable going into the new year.
Streaks ($4.99): Streaks is a habit-forming app designed to help users establish and maintain good habits by leveraging the psychological power of "streaks" or consecutive days of completing a specific task. What sets Streaks apart is its focus on consistency and incremental progress, encouraging users to build small, daily habits of their choosing that lead to significant long-term changes in behavior – perfect for sticking to those tricky New Year's resolutions.
Fantastical (free, "Premium" subscription available): Fantastical is a calendar application known for its superior functionality and user-friendly interface, distinguishing it from the default Calendar app. It offers a range of features that enhance scheduling and time management, such as natural language parsing and a highly customizable view that integrates tasks and reminders alongside calendar events. This makes Fantastical a perfect tool for anyone seeking to start the new year with better time management.
ChatGPT (free, "Plus" subscription available): ChatGPT is a conversational AI tool that offers users an interactive platform for various tasks and queries. It can provide assistance across a wide range of areas, such as generating creative ideas, offering productivity tips, helping with language learning, or even providing motivation and mental wellness advice. ChatGPT's capacity to provide instant, informed responses on a diverse range of topics makes it an excellent tool for anyone seeking a reliable and intelligent digital assistant to enhance their daily productivity or learning.
Are there any other productivity apps that you'd recommend to start the new year? Let us know in the comments.
Apple has broken a tradition it maintained for 12 years, releasing no new iPads in 2023 – the first time that the company has chosen to not launch a new tablet in an entire calendar year since the introduction of the product line.
From its debut in 2010, the iPad has been an important product for Apple and the clear tablet market leader, releasing at least one new model every year. In recent times, the company has released as many as four new iPad models per year. Before 2023, 2009 was the last year with no new iPads, simply because the product line had not yet launched.
The most recent iPad launches took place in October 2022. The only iPad-adjacent hardware released in 2023 was the Apple Pencil with USB-C.
2010: iPad (1st generation)
2011: iPad 2
2012: iPad (3rd generation), iPad (4th generation), and iPad mini (1st generation)
2013: iPad Air (1st generation) and iPad mini 2
2014: iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3
2015: iPad mini 4 and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation)
2016: iPad Pro 9.7-inch
2017: iPad (5th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), and iPad Pro 10.5-inch
2018: iPad (6th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation), and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
2019: iPad (7th generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), and iPad mini (5th generation)
2020: iPad (8th generation), iPad Air (4th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation), and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
2021: iPad (9th generation), iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation), and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
2022: iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (5th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation), and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)
2023: None
This hiatus in new iPad releases is noteworthy considering the history of the product line and could signal a moment of reflection about the direction of the device. As the iPad has become more advanced and widely adopted, the urgency for frequent upgrades has diminished for many potential customers. This shift in consumer behavior could have prompted Apple to reevaluate its tablet strategy, focusing on more impactful and less frequent hardware updates.
Another aspect to consider is the criticism Apple has faced regarding the increasing complexity of the iPad lineup and questions around the direction of iPadOS. By taking a year off from new releases, Apple may be planning to reshape the lineup with a clearer sense of purpose going forward.
Rumors and analyst forecasts suggest that 2024 will be a much more significant year for the iPad lineup, with every model, encompassing the entry-level iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, expected to receive a hardware refresh. With the rumored introduction of a 12.9-inch iPad Air model, 2024 could see Apple launch an unprecedented six iPad models in a single calendar year. The flagship iPad Pro is expected to introduce at least a dozen new features, including OLED display technology, the M3 chip, and a new, "laptop-like" keyboard accessory.
2023 is quickly drawing to close, so it's a traditional time for us to look back at everything that happened in the Apple world over the past year and look forward to what we're expecting to see in 2024.
While the news and rumor cycle largely slows down at this time of year, the past couple of weeks have been dominated by developments in a patent dispute that saw Apple forced to briefly halt U.S. sales of the latest Apple Watch models before a court paused the ban. Make sure to read on below for the latest developments in this case and more!
Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Once Again Available to Purchase From Apple's Online Store
In January, the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled that Apple had infringed on a Masimo patent related to blood oxygen sensing, and it ordered an import and sales ban for Apple Watch models offering the feature. However, Apple appealed the decision in court and was granted a temporary stay, so the ban is lifted and sales have resumed for now.
What to Expect From Apple in 2024: Vision Pro, iPhone 16 Models, Revamped iPad Pro and More
Apple's upcoming Vision Pro headset is expected to be the company's most important product of 2024, but there are many other products to look forward to next year, including the first iPad Pro models with OLED displays, a redesigned Apple Watch, and more.
Apple in 2023: The Biggest Stories and Surprises of the Year
2023 was a relatively iterative year for Apple product releases, but there were still several notable announcements and surprises throughout the year. Apple previewed its upcoming Vision Pro headset, the full-sized HomePod made a comeback, the iPhone finally switched to USB-C, and much more.
This week, we recapped the 10 biggest Apple news stories and surprises of the year.
The MacRumors Show: 2023 Year in Review
On the final episode of the year for The MacRumors Show podcast, hosts Dan Barbera and Hartley Charlton took a look back at Apple's year, which included a number of product launches and software updates.
Last week's episode saw Dan and Hartley answer listener questions about Apple heading into 2024. Topics discussed include the Vision Pro, upcoming iPad models, app sideloading in the EU, and more.
Apple first announced the Vision Pro at WWDC in June, and said it would launch in the U.S. in early 2024, followed by more countries later in the year. Kuo estimates that Vision Pro shipments in 2024 will reach approximately 500,000 units, which would make it a low-volume product.
MacRumors Newsletter
Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.
2024 is going to start off strong with the launch of the Vision Pro, Apple's first major new product since the 2015 Apple Watch, and new iPads, Macs, AirPods, and iPhones are set to follow.
There are some exciting products in the works, including a larger version of the iPad Air, the first OLED iPad Pro, updated iPhones, an Apple Watch with new health features, and more. In this guide, we've outlined everything that we know about the new products that are coming from Apple in 2024, based on current rumors.
Apple Vision Pro (February 2024)
Apple announced the Vision Pro headset at WWDC in June 2023, but it's finally almost ready to launch. Apple introduced the Vision Pro early to give developers time to create apps for the device, and since then, Apple has been working on finalizing the hardware and the visionOS operating system. The most recent rumors have suggested Apple will debut the Vision Pro in February.
At launch, the Vision Pro is only going to be available in the United States, and it sounds like Apple may require customers to purchase in store or pick up online orders in a store in order for Apple employees to provide the right Light Seal and knitted headband for a good fit, plus Zeiss prescription lens inserts for those who need them.
The headset is similar to other virtual reality headsets like the Oculus, though it is made from glass and aluminum for a premium feel. Some early testers have said that the headset can be heavy on the head, but Apple may introduce an extra strap to mitigate some of the weight. The Vision Pro is using two 4K micro-OLED displays, and the technology is both more advanced and more expensive than the displays used by Apple's competitors.
Apple is not expecting to sell many Vision Pro headsets, and rumors suggest it'll manufacture around 400,000 units. At a $3,500 price point, it's not too surprising that interest may be limited.
The Vision Pro headset is a mixed reality device that transitions between virtual and augmented reality using a Digital Crown on the side. Content can be displayed in a full virtual environment, or in the real world around you using the augmented reality capabilities.
There are more than a dozen cameras in the Vision Pro headset, and it's controlled using subtle hand gestures and eye movements. Audio Straps provide spatial audio, and there's a somewhat weird external display that projects an image of your eyes so people can tell whether you're using the headset in VR or AR mode.
While the headset isn't particularly affordable for most people, it's an exciting launch because it's using cutting-edge technology and it is an entirely new device that's going to evolve and become sleeker and more affordable over the next decade. The Vision Pro has been likened to the Apple Watch, which was also expensive and clunky when it launched, but Apple made updates at a rapid pace and by the third generation, it was much improved.
Apple didn't update the iPad lineup in 2023, but 2024 will be the year of the iPad. The iPad Pro models are set to get upgraded OLED displays for the first time, so iPad Pro screens will be as impressive as iPhone screens.
This will be the first time that Apple has used OLED for such a large display, and OLED technology will bring deeper blacks, faster refresh rates, better contrast, and improved efficiency for less battery drain.
OLED displays are thinner, so Apple may be planning to cut down on the thickness of the iPad Pro. A design update is expected to accompany the OLED transition, and the new iPads will come in 11.1-inch and 13-inch sizes, up from the current 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. The size increase may come from a change in bezel width, so physical size could remain roughly the same.
The iPad Pro models will adopt the faster M3 chip that was first introduced in the MacBook Pro and iMac. Built on a 3-nanometer process, the M3 offers up to 21 percent faster CPU speeds compared to the M2, and 15 percent faster GPU speeds. The GPU is also using a new architecture that optimizes memory allocation and utilization for improved performance and efficiency, plus it includes hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading.
GPU improvements will result in better gaming graphics and capabilities, plus the iPad Pro will be more efficient at tasks like video editing.
Other possible features include up to 4TB of storage, MagSafe charging capabilities, and a higher price tag due to the OLED display technology. More on what we are expecting from the iPad Pro can be found in our dedicated OLED iPad Pro guide.
Two iPad Air Models (March 2024)
To offer consumers more choice at a variety of price points, Apple is expanding the iPad Air lineup in 2024. For the first time, there will be two iPad Air models, just like there are two iPad Pro models.
Sizes will be similar to the iPad Pro, coming in at 10.9 inches and 12.9 inches. The iPad Air models won't have OLED displays, ProMotion, or other high-end iPad features, but they will be cheaper than the iPad Pro models.
Since Apple updated the design of the iPad Air in 2021, we're not expecting a major overhaul to the look of the device, but it's possible there will be some refinements to accommodate the new screen size.
iOS 18 (June 2024)
Apple introduces new software updates on an annual basis at its Worldwide Developers Conference, and this year, we're expecting iOS 18. iOS 18 should be one of the most interesting updates we've had in years because rumors so far suggest that we're going to see Apple getting into generative AI in a big way.
AI and machine learning will be used in multiple ways in iOS 18, with a range of new AI integrations in apps. In Apple Music, for example, we might see auto-generated playlists, and in apps like Pages and Keynote, we may see AI-assisted writing and slide deck creation.
Siri is expected to get features powered by large language models (LLMs), which are the driving force behind chatbots like chatGPT. Siri will include deeper integration with the Shortcuts app for automating complex tasks, and there will be improved interactions between Siri and the Messages app.
Speaking of Messages, iOS 18 will see Apple adopting Rich Communication Services (RCS) as an alternative to SMS/MMS. RCS will be used for conversations between iPhone users and Android users, and it will improve cross-platform messaging.
Higher-resolution photos and videos will be supported, as will audio messages, cross-platform emoji reactions, read receipts, real-time typing indicators, and more. Basically, texting with someone on Android will feel a lot more like chatting with another iPhone user.
Blue and green bubbles aren't going away, though. iMessage to iMessage chats will be blue, and Android to iMessage chats will still be green.
Along with iOS 18, we'll also get new versions of macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. We haven't heard much about these updates, but we can expect some of the same AI improvements.
visionOS 2
Alongside the Vision Pro headset, Apple will introduce visionOS, the operating system that's designed to run on the device. It has a Home Screen, a dedicated App Store, virtual reality environments, and Apple apps tailored to the Vision Pro Display. While the first iteration of visionOS will come out alongside the headset, visionOS 2 will likely be previewed in June.
Apple TV (First Half of 2024)
Apple is working on a new version of the Apple TV 4K, but it is not yet clear when it's going to launch. Rumored features include a faster A16 processor and support for Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.
The standard iPhone 16 models are expected to look similar to the iPhone 15 models with no size or design changes, but there will be some notable improvements. Apple is planning for a vertical camera arrangement to support spatial video capture, doing away with the diagonal lens setup.
Right now, the iPhone 15 Pro models are the only devices able to record spatial video that can be viewed on the Vision Pro, but that is expected to change in 2024. There's also going to be a new Capture Button on all four iPhone 16 models, with the button situated on the right side of the device under the power button.
It'll be in roughly the same spot as the mmWave antenna on U.S. iPhone models, with the mmWave antenna set to move to the left side. As the name suggests, the Capture Button will provide users with a quick way to take videos. The Capture Button will be capacitive, offering haptic feedback when pressed, plus rumors suggest it supports multiple pressure levels.
The Action Button introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro is expected to expand to the standard iPhone 16 models, so it will be available across the 2024 lineup. The Action Button can be assigned to do things like mute/unmute, activate translate, turn on the flashlight, set a Focus mode, activate a custom Shortcut, and more.
The Action Button on the iPhone 16 models could be upgraded to use capacitive technology, which would provide haptic feedback when pressed.
With the iPhone 15 lineup, Apple limited the 3-nanometer A17 Pro to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, but in 2024, all four iPhone models will get 3-nanometer A-series chips. A new thermal design to combat overheating is a possibility as well.
Apple's flagship lineup consists of four phones, two standard models and two Pro models. This year, the iPhone 16 Pro models are going to get a size update.
The iPhone 16 Pro is expected to have a 6.3-inch display, up from 6.1 inches, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max is expected to have a 6.9-inch display, up from 6.7 inches. To accommodate the larger displays, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will be slightly taller and wider than the equivalent iPhone 15 Pro models.
All of the features coming to the iPhone 16 lineup are expected for the iPhone 16 Pro models, including the capacitive Capture Button on the right side and an updated capacitive Action Button, both of which will feature haptic feedback.
A faster A-series chip is rumored, likely the A18 Pro, and there are some pretty major camera updates planned. Apple may add a 48-megapixel Ultra Wide lens, which will join the 48-megapixel Wide lens. The Ultra Wide camera will offer better low-light performance, and it will facilitate better spatial videos for the Vision Pro headset too.
Both the iPhone 16 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro Max will get the 5x tetraprism lens that was limited to the 15 Pro Max in 2023, and there's one rumor about an even better periscope camera with "super zoom" capabilities.
Faster 5G modem chips from Qualcomm are expected, and the iPhone 16 Pro models may also get the next-generation Wi-Fi 7 technology that offers up to 2.4x faster speeds than Wi-Fi 6.
Apple Watch X (September 2024)
Apple is planning a major update for the Apple Watch this year, perhaps in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the device. The Apple Watch was announced in 2014, but didn't come out until 2015, so technically it's not clear whether the anniversary will fall in 2024 or 2025. 2024 will, however, be the year that we're expected to get the "Apple Watch 10" or "Apple Watch X" as rumors have called it.
Rumors suggest there will be a new design and new health features for the 2024 Apple Watch. The next Apple Watch could be slimmer, and Apple may implement a magnetic band attachment system, changing how bands connect to the Apple Watch for the first time.
The new band system would mean that current bands would not likely be compatible with the new version of the Apple Watch, but swapping over to a magnetic system would free up space in the Apple Watch either to make the casing slimmer or to add bigger batteries or other new internal components.
Apple hasn't added new health features to the watch for some time, but in 2024, we could see sleep apnea detection and blood pressure monitoring. Rumors suggest the Apple Watch will be able to detect hypertension, monitoring whether a user's blood pressure is trending upward. The first iteration of blood pressure monitoring won't give specific systolic and diastolic readings, but a future version might.
Sleep apnea detection will be done through sleep measurements and the tracking of breathing patterns. The Apple Watch will be able to inform users if the condition might be present, allowing them to contact their doctor for more information.
Fourth-generation AirPods are coming in 2024, and as with the MacBook Air and iPad Air, Apple is going for a two-model launch. Two versions of the AirPods will be available at different price points, with the higher-end version to gain Active Noise Cancellation, a feature that has previously been limited to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.
The AirPods 4 will have an updated design that's a cross between the current AirPods 3 and the AirPods Pro, with shorter stems. Fit is expected to be improved, as is sound quality, but it is unclear if Apple will add silicone tips.
A redesigned case is set to feature speakers for Find My alerts and a USB-C charging port, and with a software update coming later in 2024, Apple will add hearing aid functionality that will let the AirPods serve as an over-the-counter alternative to traditional hearing aids.
New AirPods Pro are in the works too, but a refresh isn't expected until 2025.
USB-C AirPods Max (September 2024)
Apple hasn't updated the AirPods Max since launch, and in 2024, they'll get a minor refresh. Apple is expected to add a USB-C port for charging and new color options, but nothing else will change.
iPad Mini 7 (October 2024)
There's a new version of the iPad mini coming, but no design changes are planned. We can expect an upgraded A-series chip, likely the A16, along with upgraded front and rear cameras.
The display assembly may be installed in a different way in order to minimize "jelly scrolling" or screen tearing, which can cause images and text on one side of the display to be tilted downward due to mismatched refresh rates.
New colors are likely, and Apple will probably add Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, improvements it has been making to all of its iPad models.
Refreshed Low-Cost iPad (October 2024)
Alongside the new iPad mini 7, we could see a refreshed low-cost iPad. Apple typically updates the iPad on an annual basis, but the company skipped 2023, so we're due for a refresh.
No design changes are coming, but the iPad will get a faster chip (likely the A16), and it could be updated with support for Wi-Fi 6E.
Mac mini (Late 2024)
The Mac mini is due for an update, as it was last refreshed with M2 chips in January 2023. A 2024 version of the desktop machine will include Apple's M3 and M3 Pro chips.
Accessories
Magic Keyboard
Alongside the new iPad Pro models, Apple is expected to debut an updated version of the Magic Keyboard. The new Magic Keyboard will feature a sturdier frame made from aluminum, giving it a more Mac-like look.
The keyboard will be made of aluminum as well, and Apple is planning to add a larger trackpad that more closely resembles the trackpad of the MacBook.
Apple Pencil 3
A refreshed version of the Apple Pencil is in the works, with the new device set to be a followup to the Apple Pencil 2. It will be a higher-end Apple Pencil able to work with Apple's next-generation iPad Pro and iPad Air.
We don't yet know a lot about what we can expect from a new Apple Pencil.
Other Possibilities
MacBook Pro - The MacBook Pro was updated with M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips in late 2023. Apple sometimes refreshes the MacBook Pro annually, but so far there's no word of M4 chips or whether we'll see a MacBook Pro update in 2024.
Mac Studio - The Mac Studio was updated with M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips in June 2023, so it could get an update with M3 chips at some point in 2024. Apple has not yet unveiled an M3 Ultra chip.
Mac Pro - Like the Mac Studio, the Mac Pro was refreshed in June 2023 with the M2 Ultra. There's no word on when we'll see it updated again as of yet.
Home Hub Device - Rumors suggest Apple is working on a smart home display that would serve as a central hub for controlling smart home products, and it could launch as soon as 2024.
New Display - There have been multiple rumors of a Pro Display XDR successor, but there's no word on when an update might come. It could be 2024, or it could be later.
Wrap Up
Based on what we're hearing so far, 2024 is going to be a monumental year for Apple. Along with the Vision Pro, the iPad lineup is set to get an overhaul, and the new iPhone models have some exciting features. We're also counting on a suite of new AI features in the software updates that are coming this year.
Make sure to follow MacRumors.com and the MacRumors roundups and guides over the course of 2024 to keep up with all of the rumors we're hearing. Bookmark our What to Expect Guide and our Events Guide to see a continually updated overview of what's on the horizon.
June was particularly eventful with the announcement of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, tvOS 17, and macOS Sonoma at WWDC. Apple simultaneously unveiled the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, a new 15-inch MacBook Air model, and updates to the Mac Studio and Mac Pro lines with the M2 Ultra chip.
September marked the official release of the new operating systems and the debut of the iPhone 15 series, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2, alongside the introduction of FineWoven as a new material for accessories, and the launch of AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C. In October, Apple continued by introducing the Apple Pencil with USB-C, and somewhat unexpectedly announced the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max MacBook Pros, as well as the M3 iMac, at the end of the month.
November saw Apple announce support for Rich Communication Services (RCS). The year concluded with the release of iOS 17.2, Aston Martin and Porsche previewing the next-generation CarPlay, and a notable legal development where sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 were briefly banned in the United States.
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