Two popular trainers on Apple Fitness+ have unexpectedly announced their departure from the service, which will celebrate its second anniversary since launching this December.
Dustin Brown, who was previously a yoga trainer on Fitness+, announced his departure from the service in an Instagram post earlier today. "After being in the U.S. for over two years, I had the opportunity to travel back to Australia and spend time in my studios and in the community here," Brown wrote. "I am following and listening to my heart, and I have decided to move back to Melbourne! This means my time at Apple Fitness+ is coming to an end." Brown had been part of the service since its launch.
Brown wasn't the only one to announce a departure from Fitness+ today. Also in an Instagram post, Betina Gozo, who was a core and strength trainer on the service, said that after two years being part of the team she is leaving. "I'm sad to share that my time on the Fitness+ trainer team is coming to an end. I'm so grateful to have been part of this incredible team in LA," Gozo wrote. "The devotion, character, knowledge, and hard work of every single one of you is impeccable," she added.
Apple Fitness+ initially launched on December 14, 2020, and has since added new workout types and programs and expanded to new countries earlier this year. While Apple plans to hold a hardware-focused event this Wednesday, updates to services, including Fitness+, have been routinely talked about during Apple's fall events.
New images shared on Twitter allegedly showcase upcoming cases from Apple for the iPhone 14 lineup expected to be announced this Wednesday.
The images, shared by Majin Bu, include both leather and silicone case options for all the expected iPhone 14 models. While the photos claim to show official cases from Apple, they're most likely fake cases that resemble accurate colors. Apple often updates its selection of cases alongside a new iPhone release, so some new colors are expected this week.
According to the post, leather cases for the iPhone 14 series will be available in bright orange, brown, golden brown, midnight blue, black, and "fir green." If the colors are accurate, several currently available leather case colors from Apple will be discontinued, including a lighter purple named Wisteria, Sequoia Green, and Dark Cherry. While the colors shown in the images are possibly legitimate, the names may not be, so take them with a grain of salt.
For silicone cases, another image shared shows eight colors, including midnight, succulent, chalk pink, red, lilac, sun glow, stromblue, and elderberry. The names are claimed to be official Apple names for the colors, but the information's source has been wrong in the past.
Apple is expected to announce four new models of the iPhone 14 this Wednesday: the iPhone 14, the iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 14 Pro, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The higher-end 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch iPhone 14 models, the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, will feature the most significant changes, including a new pill-shaped notch replacement. Alongside new iPhones, Apple is expected to announce new Apple Watches and AirPods Pro. See our guide for a full rundown of everything we expect.
3D renders of the upcoming "Apple Watch Pro" shared earlier today accurately depict the design of the device, including a new button on the left side of the case that can likely be programmed by the user, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
Gurman said users will likely be able to customize the button to launch a specific app, feature, workout type, or so forth when pressed. He also confirmed that while the Apple Watch Pro will have a completely flat display, the device will still have a rounded casing, contrary to some lingering rumors about an Apple Watch with flat edges.
A couple of things I’d point out regarding the Apple Watch Pro design: - No flat sides. They are rounded like the Series 7. - The new button on the left side is probably programmable to do whatever you want. For instance, launching a specific app, feature or workout.
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) September 5, 2022
The renders also showed the Pro model with a more protruded Digital Crown and Side Button on the right side of the case, which could make these controls easier to access. Overall, the Pro model looks more rugged than standard Apple Watch models, in line with reports that it is designed for activities like hiking and extreme sports.
Apple is expected to announce the Apple Watch Pro alongside two standard Apple Watch Series 8 models and a second-generation Apple Watch SE at its special event on Wednesday. Gurman has predicted that pricing for the Pro model could start at $900 or higher. Apple is also expected to announce iPhone 14 models and new AirPods Pro at the event.
After over a year of reports about the iPhone 14 lineup, several once-believed rumors are no longer expected to come true when the devices are unveiled this week.
Though an iPhone 14 with a USB-C port or even no ports at all have almost always been thought to be off the cards, there are several major iPhone 14 rumors that once captivated the Apple community but have since been rejected, revised, or debunked in light of new information.
Complete Redesign and Flush Rear Cameras
Just before the unveiling of the iPhone 13 lineup last year, leaker Jon Prossershared renders purporting to depict an all-new design for the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Prosser's information suggested that the iPhone 14 Pro would feature a thicker chassis allowing for a flush rear camera array, round volume buttons like the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5, and redesigned speaker and microphone grilles with elongated mesh cutouts instead of holes.
Instead, the iPhone 14 Pro is expected to feature the same stainless steel frame and frosted glass back as the iPhone 13 Pro for a very similar overall look, with only a small number of subtle differences between the designs, such as more rounded corners and a larger rear camera array. It looks like the iPhone 14 Pro will be an "elevation" of the iPhone 13 Pro's design, which itself was an adaptation of the iPhone 12 Pro.
Titanium Frame for 'Pro' Models
A key report from JP Morgan Chase said that the iPhone 14 Pro could offer a titanium chassis instead of stainless steel, resulting in a stronger, lighter, and more scratch-resistant design. Prosser reaffirmed this rumor in iPhone 14 Pro Max renders.
Despite the benefits of titanium, it appears that Apple looks set to continue using a stainless steel frame for the iPhone 14 Pro, continuing a design feature that was introduced on the iPhone X. Apple reportedly concluded that it was simply too expensive to offer a titanium iPhone chassis at the current time amid production issues.
Under-Display Face ID
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo was first to spark rumors around the iPhone switching to a "hole-punch" cutout for the camera. While Kuo did not comment on how Face ID would continue to be included on the iPhone, display analyst Ross Young suggested in September 2021 that the iPhone 14 Pro could feature Apple's first under-display Face ID technology. Twitter leaker @dylandkt then claimed that the iPhone 14 Pro would feature a small pill-shaped camera cutout, with Face ID being moved to under the device's display.
Young subsequently corrected his forecast, becoming the first analyst to suggest that the iPhone 14 Pro would feature "hole-punch and pill-shaped" cutouts, something that had been indicated by component leaks. As such, it seems like the iPhone 14 lineup will not feature any of Apple's long-rumored under-display technology.
Separated 'Pill and Hole-Punch' Display Cutout Design
One of the biggest late-stage rumors about the iPhone 14 Pro relates to the "hole-punch and pill-shaped" display cutouts. While the device is still expected to feature these cutouts physically, most observers assumed that the cutouts would be visually separate. Now, it seems that the iPhone 14 Pro's display cutouts will appear as a single "pill" shape at the top of the display, shattering the previous idea of how the front of the device would look. The "pill" is rumored to have integration with iOS, displaying indicators and changing the status bar.
Every new iPhone series has featured the same new chip since Apple split the lineup upon the launch of the iPhone 8 and iPhone X. This was expected to continue with the iPhone 14 lineup until Ming-Chi Kuo said that only the iPhone 14 Pro would contain the A16 Bionic chip, with the standard iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus models sticking with last year's A15 Bionic chip. The move further differentiates the "Pro" and non-"Pro" iPhone models, and may have been triggered, at least in part, by supply chain issues.
A16 Bionic Chip Made With More Advanced 4nm Process
Some reports indicated that the A16 Bionic would be the first Apple chip to be fabricated with a 4nm process, not least because Apple has stuck with 5nm through the A14 and A15 chips. Nevertheless, the A16 is expected to continue to be based on TSMC's 5nm process.
As the third iteration of Apple's 5nm iPhone chips, the A16 is unlikely to deliver a massive performance delta over the previous A14 Bionic and A15 Bionic chips, but is is still likely to bring sufficient performance and efficiency improvements to the CPU and GPU to justify being branded as a whole new chip. One rumor indicates that the chip will have better thermal management than the A15 Bionic.
'iPhone 14 mini'
When Apple introduced the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini, many assumed that the display sizes and form factors of the iPhone lineup would persist for several years, in much the same way that the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus form factors were used through four generations and the iPhone X's form factor was used for three iPhone generations. While the iPhone 13 mini launched as expected last year, after lackluster sales, it emerged that the small form factor iPhone is set to come to an end after just two years. Apple is reportedly planning to stop offering new 5.4-inch iPhone models and introduce a larger model to take its place in the lineup.
iPhone 14 'Max' Name
Ever since expectations of an "iPhone 14 mini" faded, the "iPhone 14 Max" has been expected to sit above the iPhone 14 with a 6.7-inch display like the iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max. In the same way that the "mini" iPhones in recent years have offered all of the same features as the standard iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models, the iPhone 14 Max is expected to offer all of the same features as the standard iPhone 14 but with a significantly bigger display.
Throughout dozens of reports about this device, it has been expected to be named the "iPhone 14 Max," in line with the high-end iPhone 14 Pro Max model. However, reports have started to zone in on the name "iPhone 14 Plus," and with the likes of Bloomberg's Mark Gurman now using the name in his latest newsletter, it looks highly likely that there will be no "iPhone 14 Max" after all.
New CAD images of the upcoming Apple Watch "Pro" have been shared online by 91mobiles, providing a closer look at the alleged design of the device.
The renders line up with Apple Watch "Pro" case images shared earlier this morning, revealing the inclusion of a new physical button on the left side of the watch. The new button is visible within the CAD images, which show it sitting beneath three holes likely to be the speaker vents.
As for the Digital Crown, the CADs reveal a much more rugged look for the dial compared to the current version. Both the Digital Crown and Side Button appear to be housed within a new chassis protrusion on the side of the Apple Watch Pro, which could make them more easily accessible. The display on the watch is completely flat, unlike the Apple Watch Series 7, which features curved edges around the display.
In his Power On newsletter this weekend, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said that the Apple Watch "Pro" will feature a significantly larger display that will likely "be bigger than most wrists." Past rumors have suggested a case size between 47mm and 48mm for the device. Apple plans to use the larger display to display additional metrics to athletes during workouts, and there will also be redesigned watch faces, according to Gurman.
The new Pro model will sit at the top of the Apple Watch lineup, with pricing expected to fall in the $900 to $1,000 range. Apple is expected to announce the all-new Apple Watch "Pro" during an event on Wednesday, September 7. The new high-end Apple Watch will join the new Apple Watch Series 8 and an updated Apple Watch SE in the lineup.
Update:Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the renders shared by 91Mobiles accurately depict the design of the Apple Watch "Pro."
New images of an iPhone 14 Pro case fitted on an iPhone 13 Pro give us our best look yet at potential design changes for the camera lenses, flash, and LiDAR scanner on Apple's upcoming high-end iPhone.
The image of the case, shared on the Korean blog Naver by the account "yeux1122" reveals significantly larger camera lenses on the back on the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro. Attempting to fit the case designed for the iPhone 14 Pro onto an iPhone 13 Pro shows that each camera – the Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto lenses – will grow in size. As a result, the flash and LiDAR scanner will also shift their positioning according to the images.
Past images of iPhone 14 Pro cases and dummy models have revealed that Apple is planning a more prominent camera bump on this year's iPhone. The larger camera lenses and the more protruding camera array on the back result from several new camera features expected. Most notably, Apple is expected to include a 48MP wide camera in this year's "Pro" iPhone, as well as improvements to low-light photography and possibly 8K video recording.
Another image shared in the same post shows that the volume buttons and the volume switcher will move slightly higher on the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro. Overall, leaked schematics of the upcoming iPhone earlier this year revealed a somewhat heavier and thicker design, thanks to a larger battery and bolstered camera hardware.
Apple will announce four new models of the iPhone 14 lineup this Wednesday during an event with the tagline "Far out," including the iPhone 14, the iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 14 Pro, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Alongside new iPhones, Apple is expected to reveal the Apple Watch Series 8, a new Apple Watch SE, and an all-new Apple Watch "Pro." The second-generation AirPods Pro are also rumored to appear during the event.
Leaker Sonny Dickson has shared another image of a third-party band-and-casing accessory allegedly moulded for the forthcoming Apple Watch Pro that suggests the Garmin-style rugged device could feature additional physical buttons on the left-hand side of the screen.
Aimed at athletes and hikers, the new Apple Watch Pro is expected to feature a new hard titanium chassis design with a larger screen, but until now rumors did not mention the inclusion of new buttons on the device, where the speaker vents usually reside. The case suggests at least one new button on the left, possibly beside a smaller round hole for a new speaker vent design.
Athletes and running watch wearers are generally known to prefer physical buttons over touchscreen controls since they are more responsive in rainy and inclement weather conditions, so the inclusion of new physical controls would make sense, should the cases prove accurate.
The Digital Crown and Side button cutouts on the right side of the screen also suggest these buttons will be more protruding than on other Apple Watch models.
The moulding of the accessory case and earlier images of similar cases also suggest that the screen will be flatter than previous Apple Watch designs and will sit flush with the flat edges of the main chassis, which tapers off into a more rounded body.
The Apple Watch Pro is likely to cost significantly more than the Apple Watch Series 8, which is expected to retain the same chassis design as the current Series 7. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman suggests the new "Pro" watch could be priced in the range of $900 or $1,000.
Notably, Gurman believes the Apple Watch Pro will remain compatible with older Apple Watch bands. Both devices are expected to be announced on Wednesday at Apple's "Far Out" media event alongside a new Apple Watch SE, the iPhone 14 series, and AirPods Pro 2.
This year, Apple is rumored to be preparing to launch three new Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 8, second-generation Apple Watch SE, and a new Apple Watch "Pro" with enhanced durability aimed at heavy-duty athletes.
According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the Apple Watch Pro will debut with an all-new design that's a reworking of the form factor Apple first introduced with the Series 4 in 2018. Today, new leaks out of China allegedly give us a better idea of the rugged new Pro model ahead of time.
Two images, one tweeted by leaker Sonny Dickson (above), the other posted to Weibo by user UnclePan (below), both of whom have shared accurate information in the past, purport to show accessory cases for the forthcoming Apple Watch Pro.
UnclePan notes in his post that the "Pro is not square in the traditional sense, but a new form factor," and the casings do indeed hint that the main body of the watch will be rounded, while the upper rim of the chassis that meets the display will be flat and potentially sit flush with a flatter screen than the Series 7 model, possibly to provide better all-round protection against impacts.
There are also several cutouts suggesting larger, more protruding Digital Crown and Side buttons on the right, paired on the left with what appear to be larger-than-usual individual openings – one round, one pill-shaped – where the device's thin speaker slats are usually located. Whether these are to accommodate a new speaker design or additional physical buttons is unclear.
Prior to the release of the Apple Watch Series 7, multiple rumors suggested Apple was working on a refreshed design with flat edges similar to the flat edges of the iPhone 13 and iPad Pro, but that didn't end up happening. Rumors now suggest that the Apple Watch Pro could feature a similar sort of design with a flat display, but the device is not expected to get flat edges.
The new Apple Watch Pro is said to have a noticeably larger display on which users will be able to view more fitness and health-tracking data at the same time. The Pro model will also feature redesigned watch faces and a new low-power mode, according to Gurman.
The display is said to measure in at almost two inches diagonally, which is larger than the 1.9-inch diagonal screen size of the current Apple Watch Series 7 and the planned Apple Watch Series 8. It is also expected to include a more shatter-resistant screen and have a larger battery to accommodate longer workout times.
The standard Apple Watch Series 8 models are expected to feature the same design as the Apple Watch Series 7 with no updates to the chassis.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 14 lineup during a special event at Steve Jobs Theater on Wednesday. Alongside the new iPhones and Apple Watch models, Apple is also said to be unveiling new AirPods Pro earbuds.
Apple Watch Series 3 models are finally selling out on Apple's online store around the world, just days before the line is expected to be discontinued.
Three out of four Series 3 configurations listed on Apple's website are currently out of stock in the U.K. and Australia, for example, while one Series 3 model is unavailable on the U.S. store. Availability varies in other countries.
The upcoming watchOS 9 software update is incompatible with the Apple Watch Series 3, and it is expected that Apple will stop selling the device following the introduction of new Apple Watch models at its special event on Wednesday.
New models rumored to be announced at the event include the Apple Watch Series 8, a higher-end Series 8 model that may be named the Apple Watch Pro, and a second-generation Apple Watch SE. The original Apple Watch SE would likely replace the Series 3 as the new lowest-priced model.
Introduced in 2017, the Apple Watch Series 3 is very outdated and on its final days as watchOS 9 nears release for the Series 4 and newer later this month.
Apple has internally discussed the idea of launching some iPhone models without a SIM card slot by next year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman said the move would be part of Apple's push towards eSIMs.
Gurman said the SIM card slot could be removed on some iPhone 14 models, which Apple is expected to announce in just three days from now, although he said there is a possibility that the change will not happen until the iPhone 15 next year. The eventual removal of the SIM card slot has been rumored a few times previously.
"Apple will give eSIM a bigger push this time around, with carriers preparing to steer users toward the digital, embedded SIM cards rather than physical ones," Gurman wrote in his newsletter. "In fact, Apple has considered removing the physical SIM card slot altogether beginning either this year or next for some models."
An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan without having to use a physical nano-SIM card. eSIM availability is rapidly expanding, but the technology is still not available in all countries, so some iPhone models with a SIM card slot may remain available for at least a few years amid the transition.
iPhone 13 models sold at Apple Stores and on Apple.com already lack a nano-SIM card in the box, with users typically able to activate a cellular plan via eSIM by turning on the iPhone, connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and following the on-screen instructions. iPhone 13 models also support multiple eSIM profiles, allowing users to subscribe to several cellular plans digitally and switch between them, which is useful for travel.
The removal of the SIM card slot could help to further improve the iPhone's water resistance, and perhaps free up a tiny amount of space inside the device.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 14 lineup during a special event at Steve Jobs Theater on Wednesday. Other products expected to be announced include Apple Watch Series 8 models, a new Apple Watch SE, an Apple Watch Pro, and new AirPods Pro.
The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will feature physically larger batteries, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, likely to compensate for the increased power consumption of an always-on display.
In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman says he expects the new iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max to feature larger batteries and the devices will, as a result, appear "slightly larger overall." While longer battery life is always a top wish for customers, the inclusion of a larger battery on this year's high-end iPhones is likely a direct result of the inclusion of an always-on display.
Like the Apple Watch Series 5 and later, the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro models are widely expected to feature an always-on display that will always showcase essential information and visual elements from the redesigned iOS 16 lock screen. The always-on display will display information such as the time, date, and widgets and include tinted and darkened versions of some wallpapers customized by the user, MacRumorsreported this week.
Concept based on alleged leaked information on the iPhone 14 Pro's always-on display
Apple will be able to offer an always-on display on the upcoming iPhones thanks to new OLED display technology that features a lower refresh rate. While the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max support a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz, the 2021 iPhones can only go as low as 10Hz.
On the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, the OLED panels are expected to go as low as 1Hz, saving battery life when static information is always on display. Due to the newer OLED display, the always-on display functionality is expected to remain an iPhone 14 Pro exclusive and not extend to the iPhone 13 Pro models through a potential software update, as some may have hoped.
In addition to the energy savings provided by the lower refresh rate, the larger batteries on the iPhone 14 Pro will likely compensate for any potential loss of battery life for users when using the always-on display feature. These two changes come alongside power efficiency improvements in the upcoming A16 Bionic chip expected to power the new "Pro" iPhones.
Apple is expected to announce the new iPhone 14 lineup during an event on Wednesday, September 7. The lineup will include a 6.1-inch iPhone 14, a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus, a 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro, and a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Pro Max. The new lineup will mark the end of the road for the 5.4-inch "mini" form factor, first introduced with the iPhone 12 series and improved upon with the iPhone 13 last year.
Apple is also expected to announce the Apple Watch Series 8, an updated Apple Watch SE with faster performance, and an all-new rugged Apple Watch "Pro." The second-generation AirPods Pro are also expected to be announced during the event, according to Gurman. For a full rundown of everything we expect from Apple next week, see our guide.
Apple is working on at least three augmented-reality and virtual-reality headset devices, the first of which will likely launch with the name "Apple Reality Pro," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
In the latest edition of his "Power On" newsletter, Gurman explained that there are a minimum of three Apple headsets actively in development that he is aware of, under the codes "N301," "N602," and "N421."
The first of these devices, N301, is what Gurman believes will be called "Apple Reality Pro." Apple Reality Pro is said to be the company's "high-end rival" to Meta's upcoming Quest Pro headset. N602 is reportedly the successor to the first Apple Reality Pro headset and could come in at a lower price point. N421 is Apple's long-rumored augmented reality glasses device, though Gurman cautioned that it may not launch for some time.
Gurman's latest report is the first concrete indication of what Apple's first headset product could be called. It is worth noting that the "Reality Pro" name lines up with Apple's recent trademark filings. Last week, Bloomberg reported that Apple has trademarked several terms believed to be associated with its upcoming headset devices, including "Reality Processor," "Reality Pro," and "Reality One."
Notably, alongside new iPhone and Apple Watch models, Gurman expects Apple to announce second-generation AirPods Pro at the event. Gurman did not indicate when the new AirPods Pro would become available to order or share any pricing information.
"I reported last year that new AirPods Pro would arrive in 2022, and now I'm told that Wednesday will be their big unveiling," said Gurman.
Several new features are rumored for the new AirPods Pro, including an upgraded H2 chip for improved audio quality, longer battery life, a new charging case with Find My support, improved in-ear detection, fitness tracking capabilities, and more. The new AirPods Pro also might support Bluetooth's LE Audio specification, which would provide several benefits, including the ability for the AirPods to connect to multiple devices like an iPhone and Mac simultaneously.
Back in 2020, Gurman and Debby Wu reported that Apple had tested a more compact design for the new AirPods Pro that would eliminate the stems below the earbuds, similar to the company's Beats Studio Buds. However, more recent rumors suggest that the second-generation AirPods Pro will not have any significant outward-facing design changes.
Gurman reiterated that Apple is planning to announce a 6.1-inch iPhone 14, a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus, a 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro, and a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Pro Max, along with new Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Pro models. He also said that Apple "won't be discussing" its AR/VR headset plans at this week's event.
In 2020, Bluetooth 5.2 was introduced with support for a new LE Audio specification. At least two Apple employees are listed as participants in the development of LE Audio, and Apple is likely to adopt the specification for use in future devices.
According to a newly published filing in the Bluetooth SIG database, Apple recently had an unknown component with Bluetooth 5.3 support tested. The filing does not reveal any other notable details, but along with a similar filing last month, it suggests that Apple is preparing for future devices with Bluetooth versions that support LE Audio.
LE Audio would be particularly beneficial for AirPods, such as the second-generation AirPods Pro rumored to launch later this year. Below, we've outlined five benefits that LE Audio would have for future AirPods Pro, assuming that source devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac are also upgraded with support for the specification in the future.
Improved audio quality: LE Audio includes a new low-power audio codec called LC3 that provides improved audio quality compared to the classic SBC codec, even at a 50% lower bit rate, according to the Bluetooth SIG.
Longer battery life: With the low-power LC3 audio codec, future AirPods Pro would have longer battery life for audio playback.
Multi-stream audio: LE Audio would enable the transmission of multiple synchronized audio streams between a source device like an iPhone or Mac and the AirPods Pro. This would allow for an individual left and right AirPod to each have its own Bluetooth audio connection with a device supporting LE Audio for improved reliability.
Connect many pairs of AirPods to an iPhone at once: LE Audio would allow for many pairs of AirPods to directly connect to a future iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other device and play audio simultaneously. Apple already has a feature that allows an iPhone or iPad user with AirPods to share audio with another person with AirPods, but the feature does not work with more than two pairs of AirPods.
No switching between iPhone and Mac required: LE Audio would allow AirPods to connect to multiple source devices like an iPhone and Mac simultaneously, eliminating the need to switch the AirPods between devices.
In July, the Bluetooth SIG said it anticipates availability of products with support for LE Audio to ramp up by the end of 2022.
For the first time in several weeks, Apple has repopulated its Refurbished and Clearance store with a range of iPhone 12 mini models, just days before the smaller form factor is expected to be dropped from Apple's flagship smartphone lineup.
For the upcoming iPhone 14 series, Apple is believed to be removing the 5.4-inch iPhone "mini" size in favor of larger device dimensions. Available options are expected to include a 6.1-inch iPhone 14, a 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro, a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Max, and a 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Pro Max.
The 5.4-inch iPhone "mini" size was originally introduced in 2020 with the debut of the iPhone 12 mini, which was greeted with much fanfare for its compact size. The device was followed by last year's iPhone 13 mini, a largely incremental update. Apple still sells both models on its main store page, but despite the smaller devices' clear popularity among enthusiasts, Apple has deemed the form factor to be not popular enough to make a new iteration for the third year running.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will decide to continue offering brand new iPhone mini models after it launches its next-generation flagship iPhone 14 series, and given its successor model has yet to be listed in Apple's refurb store, the returning availability of refurbished iPhone 12 mini units is likely to be noteworthy for consumers who favor the smaller size.
Apple began selling certified refurbished iPhone 12 mini devices in July of this year – a full 21 months after they were originally launched – but demand has made them hard to get hold of for the last several weeks after news of their imminent demise in Apple's upcoming new flagship range.
The iPhone 12 mini provides the same feature set as the iPhone 12, just with a more compact design, 5.4-inch display, and 15 hours of battery life during video playback, while the iPhone 13 mini's upgrades over the iPhone 12 mini are mostly iterative, offering refinements in terms of a brighter display, a smaller notch, performance improvements, and new camera software features.
The more significant upgrades include camera hardware and longer battery life, but at face value there is likely not enough to justify getting the new model over the iPhone 12 for most customers.
In Apple's Refurb store, iPhone 12 mini models are now available for as little as $529 for a 64GB version (a saving of $100), and as much as $659 for a 256GB version (saving $120).
Refurbished iPhones come unlocked and SIM-free. All refurbished iPhones come with a new battery, a new outer shell, and a new white box that includes all manuals and a USB-C to Lightning cable. All refurbished iPhones are covered by Apple's standard one-year warranty and are eligible for extended AppleCare+ coverage.
Apple says its refurbished iPhones are thoroughly tested and cleaned, and in our view, they are virtually indistinguishable from brand new iPhones. One of the only notable differences with a certified refurbished iPhone is that it comes in a plainer box.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 14 series at its "Far Out" media event on Wednesday, September 7. Check out our guide for everything we're expected to see at Apple's upcoming event and be sure to visit MacRumors over the coming week for comprehensive minute-by-minute coverage of all the breaking developments.
A new charging case for the upcoming second-generation AirPods Pro could feature speaker holes, a microphone, and an opening for a lanyard attachment, according to alleged CAD renders of the case shared by AppleInsider's Andrew O'Hara on Twitter.
Alleged CAD of AirPods Pro 2 charging case shared by Andrew O'Hara
O'Hara said he could not verify the accuracy of the renders, but they do line up with previous rumors about the next AirPods Pro charging case.
The new charging case is expected to gain Find My support, allowing users to track the location of the case in the Find My app in the event it is lost or misplaced, even when the AirPods Pro are not placed in the case. Earlier this year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the case will be able to emit a sound when lost, which would explain the addition of speaker holes.
The renders also show a single hole for what could be a microphone, although it is unclear what it would be used for. One possibility is that the microphone could be used for Apple's accessibility feature Live Listen, which can help someone to hear a conversation in a noisy area or across a room. The case's microphone could take in sound and send it to the AirPods Pro that someone is wearing, making the sound easier to hear.
Last, the renders show a cutout in the right side of the case that is likely intended for a lanyard attachment seen in a previous leak. This feature would make it easier to attach an AirPods Pro case to a keychain without the need for an extra accessory.
It's not obvious from the CADs whether the case has a Lightning connector like the current version or a USB-C port, but rumors suggest the case will stick with Lightning this year and switch to USB-C along with the iPhone 15 next year. The case has also supported MagSafe wireless charging since receiving a minor revision in October 2021.
It's also likely the new AirPods Pro charging case will have IPX4-rated water and sweat resistance like the charging case for the third-generation AirPods. Currently, only the AirPods Pro earbuds have water resistance and not the case.
While the second-generation AirPods Pro are expected to have longer battery life thanks to a more power efficient H2 chip and potentially support for Bluetooth 5.2's low-power LE Audio standard, it's not clear if the battery in the new charging case will be any larger. The current AirPods Pro case is equipped with a 519 mAh battery.
A viral video on Twitter claims that on the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro, Apple will let users choose between a single large pill-shape cutout or one pill-shape and one hole-punch design at the top of the display to replace the notch. The video, although possibly convincing, is unlikely to be true.
The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are expected to include two physical holes at the top of the display to replace the notch: a pill-shaped hole for the TrueDepth camera system and a smaller hole-punch for the selfie camera. More recent leaks have suggested that Apple will digitally merge the two holes into one by turning off the pixels between them to create one larger pill-shaped cutout. Apple is reportedly planning to use the pixels between the holes to display information such as the iOS privacy indicators.
A video that initially originated from Weibo suggests that iPhone 14 Pro users will actually be able to customize the look of the pill shape on the upcoming high-end iPhones. The video showcases an individual toggling a setting that turns on and off the pixels in-between the two physical holes, allowing the user to choose how they wish the top of their iPhone 14 Pro to look.
The legitimacy of the video itself is highly questionable and unlikely to be authentic. The video claims to show an early hands-on look at an actual iPhone 14 Pro device, but multiple aspects of the device shown in the video are clearly out of the realm of what we're expecting, including the actual placements of the pill shape, the thickness of the bezels, and more.
Regardless of the video's legitimacy, the possibility that Apple will give users a choice between the two possible appearances of the pill shape is unlikely. Like the notch on every iPhone since the iPhone X, the pill shape will become an unmistakable aspect of the iPhone's silhouette. Apple is unlikely to let users customize what it considers a visual characteristic of the latest iPhone.
Additionally, a seemingly credible source on the MacRumors forums, who has shared lengthy information on the iPhone 14 Pro in the last several days, has said an option to disable the black pixels between the pill-shape and hole-punch cutouts is not expected to happen. That source initially broke the news on Apple using the pixels between the holes for iOS privacy indicators and is the source behind MacRumors' report earlier today on the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro always-on display.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 14, the iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 14 Pro, and the iPhone 14 Pro Max during an event on Wednesday, September 7, with the tagline "Far out." Alongside new iPhones, we expect an entirely new Apple Watch lineup, including an all-new Apple Watch "Pro." Check out our guide for everything we're expected to see at Apple's upcoming event.
September is here, and you know what that means: new iPhones and Apple Watches! Apple's upcoming media event was naturally the focus of attention this week, with last-minute rumors shaking up some of our expectations.
In addition to iPhone and Apple Watch rumors, we also saw signs that Apple is moving toward launching updated iPad Pro models (though next week's event might be a bit soon for that) while Samsung attempted to troll Apple with a new ad for its latest devices, so read on for all the details on these stories and more!
What to Expect From the September 7 Apple Event: iPhone 14, Apple Watch Series 8 and More
We're just days away from Apple's annual iPhone media event, and we've rounded up everything we expect to see or might see at Wednesday's "Far Out" event. From the iPhone 14 lineup and multiple new Apple Watch models to other possibilities, Apple will surely have a lot to show off.
As always, MacRumors will have in-depth coverage of Apple's event across our website, YouTube channel, @MacRumorsLive account on Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms, so be sure to follow us next week for a closer look at all of Apple's announcements.
iPhone 14 Pro Display Cutouts Said to Appear as Single Pill
According to an anonymous tipster in the MacRumors forums, the black space between the pill-shaped and circular cutouts on iPhone 14 Pro models will be used to display privacy indicators — the orange and green dots that indicate when an app is actively using the iPhone's camera and/or microphone.
In a series of tweets, Farrar said T-Mobile's and SpaceX's satellite connectivity announcement last week was likely intended to pre-empt Apple's announcement of its own satellite connectivity feature for the iPhone at its September 7 event, which features the tagline "Far Out" with starry sky artwork.
"This innovation is not coming soon to an iPhone near you," the ad quips, in reference to features already available on Samsung's flagship Galaxy S22 Ultra smartphone and foldable Z Flip4.
'Apple Watch Pro' Rumored to Feature Larger 47mm Case Size With Flat Display
The so-called "Apple Watch Pro" will feature a larger 47mm case size with a flat display, according to a recent report from Japanese website Mac Otakara. By comparison, all Apple Watch Series 7 models are available in 41mm and 45mm case sizes.
Other features expected for the "Apple Watch Pro" include a rugged design with a titanium case, longer battery life, an expanded Low Power Mode, an S8 chip, and more.
Major Retailer Preparing for Launch of 2022 iPad Pro Models
While the iPhone and Apple Watch are expected to be the focus of Apple's September event, rumors suggest the company will hold another event in October revolving around the iPad and Mac.
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.
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