Apple TV+ is Apple's streaming service, written, produced, and developed by Apple and its partners, so it shouldn't come as a surprise for anyone to learn that Apple products are commonly placed throughout scenes for Apple TV+ shows, but they're all done for specific reasons.
A new video report by The Wall Street Journal, which required watching over 74 episodes of Apple TV+ shows, including Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Defending Jacob, and Trying, outlines precisely how and why Apple product placements are done throughout specific episodes.
According to the report, throughout 74 Apple TV+ episodes, 300 iPhones, 120 MacBooks, and 40 pairs of AirPods were shown throughout certain scenes. That equates to over 700 Apple product placements. To put that into perspective, in one episode of Ted Lasso, a total of 36 Apple products were shown either on set or actively being used by characters.
To some, Apple is simply doing this as a promotion for its products, using the popularity and storyline of its shows to bolster its brand image. While undoubtedly true, the placements are strategic and not at all random. To understand the logic behind them, The Wall Street Journal cited Cristel Russell, a professor of marketing at Pepperdine University, to understand how brands, such as Apple, place their products in shows and movies.
The logic boils down to three areas; visuals, audio, and connection to the plot, according to Russel. A viewer's attention is typically geared towards the middle of the display, making product placements that are front and centered more noticeable. Apple uses that logic throughout several scenes of Ted Lasso and The Morning Show, for example, in which products are slowly brought into focus in the middle of the screen.
For audio, this may include references, such as the sound of an iOS notification or direct connections to Apple features and services. In several Ted Lasso scenes, characters can be heard stating they aim to FaceTime someone, or in one case in specific, Ted says he would buy some Apple stock. While subtle, Russell says these audio clips help consumers tie a connection to a particular brand or product.
Lastly, with plot connections, Apple TV+ show writers and producers aim to make direct emotional and physiological connections for viewers between a device and a character's life story. As referenced in the video, in particular scenes of Ted Lasso, Ted can be seen using his iPhone to help him connect with his wife as they complete a divorce.
As Apple takes great care and attention to detail as to when and how its products are shown in Apple TV+ content, the company is equally concerned over when not to show its products. A report from last year notes how Apple is deliberate in making sure that "bad guys" or villains in movies and shows are not seen using Apple devices since it may reflect poorly on Apple's image.
With the launch of iOS 14.2, Apple introduced a new Shazam Music Recognition toggle for the Control Center, giving iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users a quick and easy way to identify what music is playing.
Music Recognition has been a popular Control Center integration, and according to Apple, Shazam just surpassed 1 billion cumulative recognitions from the Control Center on iOS devices.
Compared to the standard Shazam app, Music Recognition is unique because it allows users to identify songs playing in their favorite apps, TV shows, and movies even while wearing headphones, a feature available in addition to the option to identify songs playing out loud.
The number one most Shazamed track from the Control Center is Bruno Mars' "Talking to the Moon," with a list of the top 10 Shazamed songs available below.
"Talking To The Moon" - Bruno Mars
"Astronaut In The Ocean" - Masked Wolf
"MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)" - Lil Nas X
"Beggin" - Måneskin
"Another Love" - Tom Odell
"Runaway" - AURORA
"Dick" - StarBoi3 Feat. Doja Cat
"Arcade" - Duncan Laurence
"Stay" - The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber
"drivers license" - Olivia Rodrigo
For those who do not already use Music Recognition, it can be added to the Control Center by opening up the Settings app and selecting the Control Center section. From there, scroll down and tap the "+" button next to the "Music Recognition" option that has the Shazam logo. Once added, users can access the Control Center and tap on the icon with the Shazam logo to identify a song that's playing.
Apple is improving Music Recognition in iOS 15 and going forward, it will automatically save a list of songs that users have discovered through the Control Center feature. The Music Recognition history can be viewed by long pressing on the Shazam Control Center icon on a device running iOS 15 or iPadOS 15.
Developers are also now able to take advantage of a ShazamKit API that allows Shazam's audio recognition technology to be integrated directly into apps, and the first apps with this functionality will launch this fall.
Apple Maps team members wearing specialized camera-equipped backpacks will be walking in Canada's three largest cities of Toronto, Montréal, and Vancouver through October to help improve the Apple Maps app.
Apple typically drives a fleet of vehicles around the world to collect Maps data, including street-level imagery for its Look Around feature, but it conducts pedestrian surveys "in areas where vehicles simply can't go." Apple promises that the pedestrian surveys offer the "same privacy protections as the Apple Maps vehicles."
A list of locations maintained on Apple's website reveals that the company began the pedestrian surveys in Toronto, Montréal, and Vancouver on September 11. Apple will also be surveying the Region of Durham immediately east of Toronto.
Apple says it is committed to protecting the public's privacy while conducting these surveys. In line with Google's Street View, Apple censors faces and license plates in imagery made available through its Look Around feature. If you have comments or questions about this process, your privacy rights, or would like to request that a face, license plate, or your own house be censored, Apple says to email mapsimagecollection@apple.com.
Introduced in iOS 13, Look Around provides 3D street-level imagery that can be zoomed and panned. The feature is already available in Canada, but Apple periodically revisits some locations "in an effort to maintain a high-quality, up-to-date map." Look Around is also available in parts of the United States, UK, Ireland, and Japan.
As is frequently the case, Apple’s 2021 product launch schedule seems to be weighted toward the latter part of the year, with a number of new products still expected to debut. While Apple is planning to hold an event this week, it won't include everything Apple's expected to announce before the year ends.
On Tuesday, September 14, Apple will be holding its "California streaming" event, which is expected to include the release of the brand new iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, and possibly the third-generation AirPods.
Given we're expecting several new products before the end of the year, it's important to note that this single event, out of what is likely to be at least two events of this fall, will not include the launch of everything we're expecting. Here's a quick rundown of everything we're not likely to see at the Apple event on Tuesday, September 14.
Larger Apple Silicon iMac
Out of a few updates expected for the Mac lineup this year, some Apple customers may be on the lookout for a larger iMac powered with Apple silicon. Currently, Apple offers the M1 Apple silicon chip in its redesigned 24-inch iMac; however, the larger 27-inch models are still powered with Intel processors.
Apple had previously paused work on a larger Apple silicon iMac to develop the 24-inch iMac, released this April. Due to that pause, the larger iMac is not expected to be released until early next year, so don't be on the lookout for any significant iMac product releases during the "California streaming" Apple event.
14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros
If it feels like we've been waiting for the redesigned 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros for an eternity, it's because we have. Apple is expected to release the all-new MacBook Pros, which will not only feature a more powerful Apple silicon chip but also major design changes and brand new displays, later this fall.
Apple last year debuted its first round of Apple silicon Macs during an event in November, and Apple is likely to do the same this year. Apple is unlikely to include any updates or mentions of the Mac during its event on Tuesday, September 14, as it will want the attention to revolve around the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7.
Bloomberg'sMark Gurman this week reported that Apple is planning another event later in the fall focused on the Mac and iPad. That event is likely to include the 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros, as well as iPad updates.
Redesigned iPad mini
The fifth-generation iPad mini was released in March of 2019, and an update is expected to come this fall. The new sixth-generation iPad mini will include a similar design to the iPad Pro and iPad Air but in a smaller and lighter form. The new iPad mini is also rumored to have a USB-C port and the A14 chip. We're expecting the new iPad mini to launch this fall, but it's unlikely to make an appearance at Tuesday's Apple event.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has reported the new Mac mini is only "several months away," meaning a launch could be in store for this year. If Apple is planning a launch this year, it could come at the same event that includes the launch of the 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros, possibly sometime in October or November.
Second-Generation AirPods Pro
Apple is working on the second-generation of the AirPods Pro, marking the first update to the product since it launched in October of 2019. The new AirPods are rumored to feature a more compact design, a new wireless chip, improved sound quality, as well as updated motion sensors for fitness tracking. While the AirPods Pro is due for an update, we're not expecting to hear any AirPods Pro news until next year.
macOS Monterey Release Date
iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, tvOS 15, and macOS Monterey are all set to be released to the public this fall, following their preview in June and months of public and developer beta testing. The iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 will ship with iOS 15 and watchOS 8 respectively, and a general release date for both operating systems is likely to be announced during Tuesday's event.
While macOS Monterey is also set to be released in the fall, macOS updates have sometimes tended to be released later in the fall, such as in October or November. Last year, Apple held the general release of macOS Big Sur until November to coincide with the release of new Apple silicon Macs. As we're expecting new Macs this year, Apple may similarly decide to hold macOS Monterey until the new Macs are released.
Conclusion
While Apple could surprise us all with some unexpected product launches during its "California streaming" event, we're unlikely to see any big surprises. Apple will hold several digital events over the next several months and rumors about the remaining events for the year are sure to start appearing following Tuesday. The iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 event will take place on Tuesday, September 14, at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time.
If you're not able to watch or just want to follow along with us as we watch the event unfold, visit MacRumors.com for our liveblog or follow us on Twitter at MacRumorsLive for our live tweet coverage.
Amazon today is offering the 512GB M1 MacBook Air for $1,099.99, down from $1,249.00. This is a match of the all-time low price on this model of the 2020 MacBook Air, and it's available in Gold and Silver.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
You'll see this sale price reflected on the checkout screen, once an automatic coupon is applied to your order. Only the Gold color is available to ship today, while the Silver option won't be available until around September 21. You can still purchase a Silver MacBook Air today at this discounted price ahead of the delayed shipping date.
The 256GB model is on sale as well, available for $849.99, down from $999.00. All three colors are discounted for this model, but none are in stock today. This is still the lowest price we've ever tracked for the 256GB MacBook Air, so if you're willing to wait a few weeks, it's worth locking in this price while it's available.
You can find even more discounts on other MacBooks by visiting our Best Deals guide for MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. In this guide we track the steepest discounts for the newest MacBook models every week, so be sure to bookmark it and check back often if you're shopping for a new Apple notebook.
The upcoming sixth-generation iPad mini will feature volume buttons on the top side of the device to accommodate a full-size Apple Pencil, according to images seemingly from an accessory maker shared by the Twitter user known as "Majin Bu."
The images purportedly depict the sixth-generation iPad mini with an iPad Air-style all-screen design, featuring squared-off edges, a Touch ID fingerprint scanner in the power button, and no Home Button, as has been previously rumored. The most noticeable change that differentiates the sixth-generation iPad mini's design from that of the iPad Air is the relocation of the volume buttons, with the buttons being moved opposite the Touch ID power button on the top edge of the device. This is an unprecedented iPad design change, with all previous iPad models to date featuring the volume buttons on the right side of the device.
The main reason for moving the volume buttons appears to be to fit the Apple Pencil on the right edge of the device. The iPad Air and iPad Pro models are able to fit both the volume buttons and a magnetically attached Apple Pencil on the right edge of the device, but this does not seem to be the case on the next-generation iPad mini due to its considerably smaller size. This likely prompted Apple to move the volume buttons elsewhere.
Relocated volume buttons were depicted in previous images of alleged iPad mini aluminum production molds. Third-party accessory makers often get their hands on accurate dimensions for upcoming devices well ahead of launch to develop the likes of screen protectors and accessories so that they are available as soon as the device is released. Given this is the second appearance of relocated volume buttons from accessory makers, the change may be more likely to be accurate, especially in light of the expected need to accommodate an Apple pencil.
Relocating the volume buttons to the top right of the device could also make sense for larger iPads that are often used in landscape mode and with keyboards, since the user would no longer need to lift their hand up past the display to the top edge of the device to change the volume. In landscape, volume buttons in this new location would be much closer to an external keyboard. It is unknown if the relocated volume buttons will expand to other iPad models for consistency in the future.
Ahead of the iPhone 13's big reveal on Tuesday, expected during Apple's "California streaming" event, new images are claiming to offer us a look at new case color options for the upcoming iPhone lineup.
Apple often provides new color options for its silicone and leather case collections seasonally, and with the iPhone 13 release, new color options can reasonably be expected. Images shared on Twitter allegedly give us a look at the new color options for the upcoming silicone iPhone 13 case lineup.
According to the images shared, Apple will provide eight color options for the lineup, which, compared to the current iPhone 12 silicone cases, are slightly brighter and more vibrant. The tweet depicts two images, one with an alleged screenshot of the new cases, while the other shows those same cases in real life.
Apple is planning dark green, black, dark and light blue, orange, pink, (PRODUCT) RED, and white silicone case options for the iPhone 13, according to the images.
Another image shared by the same Twitter account allegedly shows the leather case collection for the iPhone 13 series. Compared to the current iPhone 12 leather collection, the images show minimal color changes, with the "Baltic Blue" case taking a more green hue. Overall, iPhone 13 leather case color options may include black, purple, light purple, dark green, and brown.
While the leather and silicone cases are expected, a separate image on Weibo offers a glimpse into a possible new case design from Apple. An image shared on Weibo by an account with no current track record shows a silicone case with a translucent design featuring a two-tone finish that's reminiscent of the original iPhone design. The cases, however, show no MagSafe ring, casting doubt on their legitimacy.
As always, these images, especially those for cases and iPhone accessories, must be taken with a grain of salt ahead of a new iPhone launch. It's also worth noting that the source of today's leather and silicone case images had previously shared photos of unreleased iPhone cases.
While the cases in the images shared could be from Apple, they could also be third-party cases from an accessory maker or entirely fake. Apple will hold its "California streaming" even on Tuesday, September 14, where it's expected to reveal the iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, and the third-generation AirPods.
Epic Games has filed an appeal against the ruling in its case against Apple, further prolonging the already year-long legal battle between the two companies.
The ruling, announced on Friday, sided with Apple on nine out of the ten counts that Epic Games had presented against the company. Epic, from the start, had alleged that Apple is anti-competitive and that it should open up its devices to third-party app stores, third-party in-app payment methods, and more. The judge said that while the trial showed that Apple "is engaging in anticompetitive conduct under California’s competition laws," Epic Games failed to prove the company is an illegal monopolist or that it violates anti-trust laws.
The judge most notably ordered Apple not to prohibit developers from adding links to external websites for in-app purchases. A week before the ruling was announced, Apple revealed similar changes to App Store policy, but limited to just "reader" apps, such as Spotify, Netflix, and others. The judge's ruling requires that Apple extends that privilege to all App Store apps.
Epic Games' appeal, filed late on Sunday, doesn't provide specifics on what the game developer aims to appeal. Given the outcome of the ruling, however, it's likely it will reattempt to convince a judge that Apple should allow third-party app stores and "sideloading" on its devices, that Apple is a monopolist, and that the termination of its developer account was unlawful and that Fortnite should be reinstated onto the App Store.
While Epic Games has filed its appeal, signaling its dissatisfaction with the ruling, Apple has called it a "resounding victory." Apple has not stated it plans to appeal the verdict, and per the current court order, the company has 90 days before it must allow all apps to link to external websites for in-app purchases.
After Tuesday's "California streaming" event where Apple will unveil the iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, and AirPods 3, Apple has one further event planned that will focus on new Mac and iPad announcements, according to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.
Responding to a query about new Macs, Gurman tweeted that "there will be two events," and said he expected the latter to feature both new Mac models and new iPads. In his latest "Power On" newsletter, Gurman said the second event will happen in the next "several weeks."
With several Apple product lines expected to see new additions this year, speculation had mounted regarding how many events Apple will hold in the remainder of 2021. Predictions had been further fueled by the fact that last year Apple held three separate events over September, October, and November. However, 2020 was blighted by the global health crisis, which saw Apple hold digital-only events for the first time and the iPhone 12 announcement delayed to October.
In 2021, the pandemic hasn't been as big a factor for Apple, and the company is returning to its September timeframe to announce the new iPhone 13. Additionally, Apple's November 2020 event was exclusively about the first ever Apple silicon-powered Macs, and while the company is expected to announce redesigned MacBook Pro models this year, these will share the limelight with new iPads at a single combined event instead.
Apple is working on an updated version of the MacBook Pro that will come in 14 and 16-inch size options. It will have thinner bezels, a larger display, and a redesigned chassis. It will use a new "M1X" chip that's an upgrade to the M1, and will mark the return of MagSafe connectivity over USB-C. Apple is also bringing back the HDMI port and SD card slot. According to Gurman, Apple has also been working on a new version of the Mac mini that will feature an M1X chip.
As for iPads, there is a new version of the low-cost iPad in development, and Apple has major changes in store for the iPad mini 6, which is expected to be updated with an all-display design. Like the iPad Air, it will have no Home button and it could feature a Touch ID power button.
Just two days ahead of Apple's annual iPhone event, reputable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has outlined expected storage capacities for the iPhone 13 lineup.
In a research note with investment firm TF International Securities, obtained by MacRumors, Kuo said the iPhone 13 lineup will start with 128GB of storage, with no 64GB option for any models. Kuo added that the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available with up to 1TB of storage, which would be the largest capacity ever offered for an iPhone.
The exact storage capacity breakdown is as follows, according to Kuo:
iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13
128GB
256GB
512GB
iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max
128GB
256GB
512GB
1TB
For comparison:
iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12
64GB
128GB
256GB
iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
128GB
256GB
512GB
Apple's event kicks off on Tuesday, September 14 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. MacRumors will have full coverage of the announcements on our website and across our social platforms, including @MacRumorsLive on Twitter, so be sure to follow along.
Apple will announce its third-generation AirPods, featuring a new design similar to the AirPods Pro but lacking in "Pro" features during its "California streaming" Apple event on Tuesday, September 14, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said today in an investors note obtained by MacRumors.
Kuo envisions two possible scenarios for how Apple treats the AirPods lineup following the launch of the new model. In the first scenario, Kuo says Apple may price the third-generation AirPods higher than the current second-generation AirPods, keeping the existing model in the line.
Secondly, Apple may reduce the price of the existing AirPods and replace their spot in the lineup with the third-generation AirPods at the current $199 price point. Either way, Kuo says Apple will keep the second-generation AirPods in the lineup for customers who prefer the older design.
We have two scenarios for AirPods pricing: 1) AirPods 3 price is higher than existing AirPods 2, and AirPods 2 price remains the same, or 2) AirPods 3 price is the same as existing AirPods 2 and AirPods 2 price cuts. In scenario one, the market will be neutral on the AirPods announcement. In scenario two, the AirPods announcement will be better than the market expectation for supply chain shipments.
The third-generation AirPods are expected to feature a design language similar to the AirPods Pro, but rumors are conflicting on whether the new design will include silicone ear tips. Images of the alleged third-generation AirPods were shared earlier this year, and according to those images, the new AirPods will not feature silicone eartips. On the other hand, renders of the upcoming AirPods depict them with silicone eartips.
Alongside the third-generation AirPods, Apple is also planning to announce the iPhone 13 and the Apple Watch Series 7 during its "California streaming" event on Tuesday, September 14. For a full breakdown of everything we expect, be sure to check our guide.
Apple is hosting an online streaming media event for the public and press on September 14, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Apple is expected to announce its new iPhone 13 lineup alongside an Apple Watch Series 7, and potentially other products during the event, dubbed "California Streaming." Here's how you can watch it and when, wherever you are in the world.
There are multiple ways to watch the September 14 event, with details listed below. We've also included a useful guide on when the event will take place in your particular time zone.
Apple Events Website
With the Apple Events website, you can watch the event live on a Mac, iPhone, iPad, PC, or any other device with a web browser. The Apple Events website works in Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and other main browsers.
Just navigate to www.apple.com/apple-events/ using a web browser at the appropriate time to watch. You can visit the site now to add an event reminder to your calendar.
YouTube
Apple also plans to stream the event live on YouTube, which is perhaps the easiest and most efficient way to watch because the YouTube live stream can be viewed on every platform where YouTube is available, which is pretty much all platforms, from smartphones and tablets to consoles and smart TVs.
Apple used to have a dedicated Apple Events app on the Apple TV, but ahead of WWDC 2020, it folded into the Apple TV app. On event day, there will be a prominent Apple TV app section dedicated to the live stream, which can be watched on any device where the Apple TV app is available.
This includes the Apple TV, iPhones, iPads, Macs, and some smart TVs. If you have an Apple TV, the Apple TV app is one of the best ways to watch the event live. Apple hasn't updated the Apple TV app with the new event as of yet, but it should be added soon.
When to Watch the Apple Event
Apple's event will take place at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, like most Apple events. Event times in other time zones are listed below.
Honolulu, Hawaii — 7:00 a.m. HAST
Anchorage, Alaska — 9:00 a.m. AKDT
Cupertino, California — 10:00 a.m. PDT
Phoenix, Arizona — 10:00 a.m. MST
Vancouver, Canada — 10:00 a.m. PDT
Denver, Colorado — 11:00 a.m. MDT
Dallas, Texas — 12:00 noon CDT
New York, New York — 1:00 p.m. EDT
Raleigh, North Carolina — 1:00 p.m. EDT
Toronto, Canada — 1:00 p.m. EDT
Halifax, Canada — 2:00 p.m. ADT
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — 2:00 p.m. BRT
London, United Kingdom — 6:00 p.m. BST
Berlin, Germany — 7:00 p.m. CEST
Paris, France — 7:00 p.m. CEST
Cape Town, South Africa — 7:00 p.m. SAST
Moscow, Russia — 8:00 p.m. MSK
Helsinki, Finland — 8:00 p.m. EEST
Istanbul, Turkey — 8:00 p.m. TRT
Dubai, United Arab Emirates — 9:00 p.m. GST
Delhi, India — 10:30 p.m. IST
Jakarta, Indonesia — 12:00 a.m. WIB next day
Shanghai, China — 1:00 a.m. CST next day
Singapore — 1:00 a.m. SGT next day
Perth, Australia — 1:00 a.m. AWST next day
Hong Kong — 1:00 a.m. HKT next day
Seoul, South Korea — 2:00 a.m. KST next day
Tokyo, Japan — 2:00 a.m. JST next day
Adelaide, Australia — 2:30 a.m. ACST next day
Sydney, Australia — 3:00 a.m. AEST next day
Auckland, New Zealand — 5:00 a.m. NZST next day
MacRumors Coverage
If you're not able to watch or just want to follow along with us as we watch the event unfold, visit MacRumors.com for our liveblog or follow us on Twitter at MacRumorsLive for our live tweet coverage.
Both the MacRumors site and our Twitter account are excellent ways to discuss the new announcements with other Apple enthusiasts as Apple unveils its new products. Later in the day and throughout the week, we'll also have much more in-depth coverage of all of Apple's announcements, so make sure to stay tuned.
Apple's biggest product introduction is right around the corner, with an Apple event now officially announced for next Tuesday, September 14! We're continuing to see a flurry of rumors about not only the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 that we're expecting to see at the event, but also the iPhone 14 that's a whole year away.
The other major piece of news this week was that a decision was finally handed down in the blockbuster Epic Games v. Apple trial. It was a mixed verdict with Apple winning on nine of the ten counts but the sole Epic victory meaning that U.S. developers would be able to link to alternative payment systems in their apps. But stay tuned, because this dispute isn't over yet.
'California Streaming' Apple Event Announced for September 14: Here's What to Expect
In addition to hardware, Apple is also likely to share release dates for iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, and tvOS 15 during or immediately after the event.
Epic Games vs. Apple Judgment Allows App Store Developers to Link to Alternative Payment Methods
Rogers' ruling would allow U.S. developers to link out to alternative payment systems rather than being limited Apple's in-app purchasing system, but the dispute is by no means over, as Epic has said it plans to appeal at least some portions of the ruling that went in favor of Apple while Apple is still considering its next steps.
Leaker Details Last-Minute iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, and AirPods 3 Rumors
Just days ahead of the Apple Event, last-minute rumors have emerged about the iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, and third-generation AirPods, and we've rounded up all of the details right here.
Prosser also claimed that the iPhone 14 Pro Max will have a thicker chassis that eliminates the rear camera bump, a titanium frame, round volume buttons, redesigned speaker and microphone grilles, and a Lightning connector.
iPhone 14 Pro Models Likely to Feature Under-Display Face ID
Young said it is "easier" for Apple to embed Face ID sensors under the display than it is to hide the front camera under the display, which would explain why some iPhone 14 models are expected to feature a hole-punch front camera.
Apple Watch Series 7 models will reportedly be available in limited quantities at launch, likely due to ongoing supply chain component shortages and manufacturing challenges that arose from the Series 7's new design with larger display sizes and a flat-edged casing. Those challenges have reportedly been addressed, so hopefully, any delays or shortages will be short-lived.
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.
WhatsApp has announced it will give its two billion users the option to upload their chat backups to Apple's iCloud using password-protected encryption.
Currently, WhatsApp on iPhone lets users back up their chat history to iCloud, but messages and media that users back up aren't protected by WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption while in Apple's cloud servers.
Given that Apple holds the encryption keys for iCloud, a subpoena of Apple or an unauthorized iCloud hack could potentially allow access to WhatsApp messages backed up there. Apple was reportedly pressured to not add encryption to iCloud Backups after the FBI complained.
The upcoming WhatsApp feature will resolve that security vulnerability by allowing users to encrypt and password-protect their chat history before uploading it to Apple's cloud-based platform. WhatsApp began early work on the security feature back in March 2020.
The rollout will make backups secure in remote iCloud servers by making them unreadable without an encryption key. Encrypted backups will be optional, and users will be asked to save a 64-bit encryption key or create a password that is associated with the key.
According to a whitepaper published by the Facebook-owned platform, when a WhatsApp user creates a password linked to their account's encryption key, WhatsApp stores the key in a physical hardware security module (HSM) that acts like a safety deposit box and can only be unlocked using the correct password. WhatsApp only knows that a key exists in a HSM, not the key itself or the associated password to unlock it.
When the password is used to unlock the HSM, the encryption key is released which then decrypts the account's backup on Apple's servers. If the wrong password is entered repeatedly, however, the data in the HSM becomes permanently inaccessible. WhatsApp will only know that a key exists in a HSM, not the key itself or the associated password to unlock it.
"WhatsApp is the first global messaging service at this scale to offer end-to-end encrypted messaging and backups, and getting there was a really hard technical challenge that required an entirely new framework for key storage and cloud storage across operating systems," said Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a post announcing the feature.
The encrypted chat backups feature will be rolled out in the coming weeks on Android (for WhatsApp users backing up to Google Drive) and iOS, and will be available in every market where WhatsApp is operational, which could put the company at odds with some governments.
Comparatively, Apple is not making its upcoming iCloud+ Private Relay encrypted browsing feature available to users living under certain authoritarian regimes, including China, Belarus, Colombia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkmenistan, Uganda, and the Philippines. According to Apple, "regulatory reasons" are preventing the Private Relay feature from launching in those countries.
Apple today published a new support document warning iPhone users that the cameras on their devices can be damaged by exposure to certain vibrational frequencies such as those generated by high-power motorcycle engines.
iPhone camera lenses with optical image stabilization (OIS) or closed-loop autofocus (AF) are susceptible to this damage due to their use of gyroscopes and/or magnetic sensors to help compensate for movement and vibration when shooting photos or video.
The OIS and closed-loop AF systems in iPhone are designed for durability. However, as is the case with many consumer electronics that include systems like OIS, long-term direct exposure to high-amplitude vibrations within certain frequency ranges may degrade the performance of these systems and lead to reduced image quality for photos and videos. It is recommended to avoid exposing your iPhone to extended high-amplitude vibrations.
Due to this risk, Apple recommends that users not attach their iPhones directly to the chassis or handlebars of such motorcycles, as direct transmission of vibrations can be intense. Apple even recommends that users mounting their devices to lower-powered devices like mopeds and electric scooters at least use a vibration-dampening mount to minimize the chances of any damage.
First ride on the motorcycle and I think I toasted the camera in my iPhone.
8 miles. Crappy design.
— James Chadbourne (@mack505) September 4, 2021
It is unclear whether there is a specific reason Apple has posted the document at this time, but there have been a number of reports on discussion forums and other venues over the years about damage caused in such scenarios, including on mountain bikes.
Apple has previously warned that OIS and closed-loop AF systems can similarly suffer from magnetic interference that degrades camera performance when used with certain iPhone accessories, although magnet-related issues tend to be temporary and can be remedied by simply removing the accessories. Vibrations can more easily result in permanent damage to the systems.
All iPhone models from the iPhone 7 onward, as well as the iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 6s Plus, have OIS and/or closed-loop AF and are potentially affected.
Apple is holding its annual iPhone-centric event on Tuesday, September 14, and like last year, it will be entirely digital. We've been hearing rumors about what's coming for many months now, so we have a good idea of what to expect.
We're expecting the new iPhone 13 models and Apple Watch Series 7 models to debut at the event, along with new Apple Watch bands and iPhone cases. We could also get the AirPods 3, and there are also other products on the horizon like new iPads and the M1X MacBook Pro, but with Apple rumored to be holding multiple events over the next few months, this one may have more of an iPhone focus.
This guide highlights everything that we're expecting to see at the September event based on the rumors we've heard so far.
iPhone 13
Apple will release four iPhones in 2021, including a 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini, a 6.1-inch iPhone 13, a 6.1-inch iPhone 13 Pro, and a 6.7-inch iPhone 13 Pro Max. If that sounds a lot like the iPhone 12 lineup, well, it is.
The iPhone 13 models will be almost identical to the iPhone 12 models, and we're expecting few design changes. That said, the new models might be just a little bit thicker, and there could be new colors. A darker graphite gray shade and bronze have been rumored, but not confirmed, as has a pink shade.
The side button, mute button, and volume buttons may be a bit lower and some of the biggest design changes are coming to the camera. The iPhone 13 Pro will have a bigger camera bump and the iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13 will have lenses arranged diagonally. Camera bumps may be thicker, but individual lenses will protrude less.
On the front side, we're expecting a smaller Face ID notch with the speaker moving to the top edge of the display. There may be some improvements to Face ID itself, but we haven't heard that from a reliable source.
The iPhone 13 Pro models are rumored to be getting a 120Hz "ProMotion" display to finally put the iPhone on par with the iPad Pro. This will be enabled through new low-power LTPO backplane technology, which may also facilitate an always-on display similar to what we have on the current Apple Watch models.
Inside, the iPhone 13 models will have a 5-nanometer A15 chip and as with all updates to the A-series chip, it's expected to bring faster performance and efficiency improvements that will boost battery life.
Qualcomm's X60 modem will bring faster 5G connection speeds and better 5G coverage, and Apple is expected to bring super-fast mmWave connectivity to more countries. As for WiFi, iPhone 13 models may support the latest WiFi 6E specification.
Apple is rumored to be using bigger batteries in all the iPhone 13 models, which might bring longer battery life, but the always-on display and 120Hz refresh rate might eat some of that up on the Pro models. We've heard a rumor that wired charging might be faster with support for up to 25W, and reverse wireless charging is a possibility but hasn't been confirmed by a reliable source.
Camera technology improves each year, and rumors suggest all of the new iPhones are getting updated features. Some of the biggest improvements will come to the iPhone 13 Pro, which is expected to be on par with the iPhone 13 Pro Max this year with a better telephoto lens.
The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max are expected to get sensors with larger pixels to improve photos in low-light conditions, and the Ultra Wide camera on these models will feature autofocus and an improved f/1.8 aperture for low-light improvements. The sensor-shift stabilization feature available in the Pro models is expected to come to the entire iPhone 13 lineup for much better stability for the Wide camera. On the Pro models, the Ultra Wide camera may also use sensor-shift stabilization.
A new cinematic video mode will work like Portrait mode but for video, and Apple is adding ProRes support to the Pro models, which is the video equivalent of ProRAW. The built-in camera filters will be improved and will be applied to objects and people more precisely rather than being overlaid on the entire photo, plus Night Mode could get better colors and new features for recognizing the night sky.
The iPhone 13 models may support up to 1TB storage for the first time, up from the prior 512GB maximum.
There were rumors of a portless design and under-display Touch ID, but those did not pan out and we're no longer expecting those features. For more detail on what's coming in the iPhone 13 lineup, we have a dedicated iPhone 13 roundup.
Apple Watch Series 7
No new health features are expected for the Apple Watch this year, but it is getting the first redesign we've seen since 2018. The Apple Watch Series 7 will better match the iPhone 13 because it's adopting the same flat-edged design, which is a major change from the curved edges the Apple Watch has had since its 2015 introduction.
The Apple Watch Series 7 will come in new 41mm and 45mm size options, up from 40mm and 44mm. Combined with thinner bezels, this will allow for significantly larger displays that will also include a new lamination technique that brings the display closer to the watch's surface.
We could see new color options, such as a green color that could join or replace the blue shade introduced last year. Rumors have been mixed on whether the new design will make the Series 7 thicker or thinner, so we'll have to wait to see.
An updated S7 chip will be included in the Series 7, and because it's smaller, it leaves more room for other components like a bigger battery. New wireless connectivity is expected, as is an improved version of the current U1 Ultra Wideband chip.
Apple is designing new Series 7-exclusive watch faces to go with the larger displays, including a Modular Max face, a Continuum face, and a new world time watch face. Alongside the launch of the new watch, Apple is debuting new "Time to Run" and "Audio Meditations" features that will accompany the "Time to Walk" option that was introduced earlier this year.
Apple has reportedly been having some difficulties ramping up mass production of the Apple Watch Series 7, so while we expect to see an introduction at this event, its actual launch could be delayed a bit compared to the iPhone 13 or initially available only in very limited quantities.
For more on the Apple Watch Series 7, we have a dedicated guide that aggregates everything we know about it so far.
AirPods 3
Apple's most affordable earbuds are getting an update in 2021, and it could come at the September event, although we're a bit less certain it's coming at this event than we are with the iPhone and Apple Watch. Whenever they arrive, the AirPods 3 will get a design overhaul with a more AirPods Pro-like look.
We're expecting an AirPods Pro design with shorter stems, and there are mixed rumors on whether or not the new AirPods will have the same silicone tips or if they'll retain the current no-tip design, but it's looking like they'll be a tipless hybrid of the current AirPods and AirPods Pro.
The case is shorter and wider than the current AirPods case and is more similar to the AirPods Pro case.
New internal hardware with an updated wireless chip is a possibility, and we could see extended range and battery life improvements. The AirPods 3 won't get AirPods Pro features like Noise Cancellation, and they'll still be the most affordable AirPods.
New Software Updates
Apple is expected to release iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, and tvOS 15 just a few days ahead of when the new iPhone models are set to become available.
If the iPhone models are announced on the 14th and are set to launch on the 24th, for example, we could see the software updates launch on the 22nd.
Alternatively, some of the software updates could come as soon as the 15th if Apple repeats last year's timing. Either way, Apple will let us know the launch dates for the software on event day.
If Apple follows its recent pattern of releases, macOS Monterey may be released a bit after iOS 15 and its sister updates so we may not see Monterey until later in September or in October.
Expected Later This Year
Last year, Apple held events in September, October, and November, and it was an autumn event extravaganza. Multiple events proved to be successful, and it's something we're also counting on this year.
2020 was a special situation because of the iPhone delay, so we may only get two events this year, but three is still a possibility. Here's what we may see at events held in October and/or November:
MacBook Pro - Apple is working on an updated version of the MacBook Pro that will come in 14 and 16-inch size options. It will have thinner bezels and a larger display, along with a redesigned chassis. It will mark the return of MagSafe connectivity over USB-C, and Apple is also bringing back the HDMI port and SD card slot. The new MacBook Pro models will do away with the Touch Bar in favor of a row of function keys, and in many ways, this redesign will mark a return to the pre-2016 MacBook Pro. Most notably, the upcoming MacBook Pro models will use a new "M1X" chip that's an upgrade to the M1.
Mac mini - According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a new version of the Mac mini that will feature an M1X chip. This new Mac mini will replace the current Intel version of the Mac mini and it is coming "in the next several months."
iPad 9 - There is a new version of the low-cost iPad in development and it's expected to launch before the end of the year. It will continue to have a Home button, but it will get an updated 10.5-inch display and it could be thinner and lighter than prior models. A faster A-series chip is also expected.
iPad mini 6 - Apple has major changes in store for the iPad mini 6, which is expected to be updated with an all-display design. Like the iPad Air, it will have no Home button and it could feature a Touch ID power button.
How to Watch
The iPhone 13 event will kick off on Tuesday, September 14 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Apple will live stream the event on its website and on YouTube.
For those unable to watch, MacRumors will have live coverage of the event both on MacRumors.com and through our MacRumorsLive Twitter account.
We're not expecting new Macs to debut at Apple's upcoming "California Streaming" event, but according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is making one small tweak to its Mac sales plans.
After the September 14 event, Apple retail stores will begin selling the 24-inch iMac in all colors, which will mean all seven colors will be able to be purchased in store.
Right now, Apple's retail stores only offer the iMac in green, pink, blue, and silver. The yellow, orange, and purple colors cannot be purchased in stores and must be ordered online.
The change will make it easier for customers who want one of the more unusual iMac colors to get an iMac right away without having to wait for shipping. It may also mean that third-party stores will be able to carry additional colors, as retailers like Best Buy have also been limited to green, pink, blue, and silver.
There are highly anticipated redesigned 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro models that are in the works, but unfortunately, we are not expecting these new machines at the September event. Instead, Apple will likely hold a second October and/or November event that will focus on Macs and iPads.
The first season of basketball-focused TV show "Swagger" is set to premiere on Friday, October 29, Apple announced today.
"Swagger" is a drama series inspired by Brooklyn Nets superstar Kevin Durant's childhood and his experience as a talented youth basketball player courted by recruiters.
Inspired by Durant's experiences, "Swagger" explores the world of youth basketball, and the players, their families and coaches who walk the fine line between dreams and ambition, and opportunism and corruption. Off the court, the show reveals what it's like to grow up in America.
The 10-episode series is set to star Isaiah Hill, O'Shea Jackson Jr., and Quvenzhané Wallis. Kevin Durant was involved in the show's creation alongside Reggie Rock and Brian Grazer.
When the show premieres on October 29, the first three episodes will be available, with new episodes to follow each Friday.
In other Apple TV+ news, John Lithgow has been cast in Apple TV+ thriller "Sharper," and he will star alongside Julianne Moore. "Sharper" follows the story of a woman who cons her way through the world of Manhattan's wealthy elite.
Apple has also inked a deal for popular children's television show "Yo Gabba Gabba." Apple is creating a new 20-episode "Yo Gabba Gabba" series and has also acquired the rights to all prior "Yo Gabba Gabba" TV shows and specials.
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