As Apple prepares for the biggest keynote of the year, the one dedicated to the iPhone, scheduled for around September 10 according to our information, it has also undertaken a major clean-up in its back room. To make room for the iPhone 16, the new AirPods 4 and other latest models of the tenth generation Apple Watch, the firm could stop ten products between September and October.
iPhone 15 Pro & iPhone 15 Pro Max
Since the launch of the iPhone XS and XR in 2018, Apple has made a habit of retiring its flagship iPhones a year after their release, likely to avoid internal competition and to encourage customers to switch to more affordable entry-level models. If tradition holds, we’ll likely have to say goodbye to Apple’s first iPhone with a titanium frame next month. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will be replaced by larger models, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, which measure 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively. Additionally, the Titanium Blue colorway will be replaced by a gunmetal gold colorway.
iPhone 14 Plus
The iPhone 14 Plus, which took on the iPhone 12 and 13 mini, failed to do anything better. Despite its impressive battery life, the best for an iPhone to date, it did not sell well.
Apple is expected to keep the iPhone 14 as the cheapest model, excluding the SE, but remove the “Plus” version, likely leaving the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus as the mid-range. In addition to the upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.
iPhone 13
Launched in 2021, the iPhone 13 brought several small improvements, including better battery life, an improved camera system, and a smaller notch. Essentially, it was an iPhone 12S. Since then, it has lost $100 per year, while remaining in the range. However, as it approaches its third birthday, it will have to step aside for the iPhone 14.
Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 2
In addition to the phones, Apple is expected to bring updates to all current models of the Apple Watch. The Series 10 could offer larger and more efficient displays, a thinner design, and potentially a new AI-focused processor. The watch is also expected to be called the Apple Watch X, to celebrate ten generations.
The Apple Ultra 3 is expected to be a minor update, and the SE 3 could switch to a plastic case for a more affordable price. If all of these models are updated, it’s likely that Apple will stop selling the current versions of the Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 2.
AirPods 2 and AirPods 3
The AirPods 2 have been in Apple’s lineup since 2019, the oldest product in this roundup, offering essential features at an entry-level price. Even after the release of the AirPods 3 in 2021, which introduced a “Pro” design, Spatial Audio, and better sound quality, Apple kept the AirPods 2 in its lineup.
But starting next month, both of those earbuds will be replaced by two AirPods 4 variants — a base model to replace the AirPods 2 and a mid-level model to replace the AirPods 3. The mid-level version is expected to include noise cancellation, giving it a level playing field with the growing number of competitors, including Apple-owned Beats. With the arrival of these new models, it’s likely that the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 will be retired.
iPad mini 6 and iPad 10
Finally, the iPad. After upgrading its iPad Pro and iPad Air this year, Apple still has to renew its most affordable models. Next month, the iPad mini 6 and iPad 10 will probably say goodbye, replaced by the iPad mini 7 and iPad 11.
No major changes are expected, as both have a modern all-screen design. A faster processor and a repositioned camera should suffice, with perhaps faster Wi-Fi. Not to mention compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro.
However, it is possible that the American manufacturer will keep the iPad 10, in order to offer a tablet at a rock-bottom price.
What is the product you are most looking forward to at the September 10 keynote?