Tech News

Apple being one of the largest companies in the world is known for its innovative products and services. As we go into 2024, there’s a lot of speculation and excitement as to Apple’s plans for the year.

This article will look at the possible software and hardware news and rumors.

iPad Pro and iPad Air Models

Both of these products aim to offer consumers a wide range of choices both in terms of features and price points.

iPad Pro Models

• Release Date: The new iPad Pro models are likely to be announced around March 2024.
• OLED Displays: It is a significant upgrade for the iPad Pro models with the switch to OLED displays. This is expected to offer enhanced visual quality and performance.
• Storage and Charging: These models might come with up to 4TB of storage. They also include MagSafe charging capabilities.

iPad Air Models

• Two New Models: For the first time, Apple plans to offer two iPad Air models. This offers more choices at different price points.
• Sizes: The sizes of these new models will be similar to the iPad Pro, coming in at 10.9 inches and 12.9 inches.
• Features and Pricing: Unlike the iPad Pro, the new iPad Air models won’t have OLED displays, ProMotion, or other high-end iPad features, but they will be more affordable.

Related: iPad 10.2 9th Generation Review

iOS 18

iOS 18, expected to be released later in 2024, is shaping to be a significant update for Apple’s mobile operating system. Apple is expected to place a strong emphasis on advanced AI features and improved cross-platform communication. Some expectations include:

• Artificial Intelligence Enhancements: One of the most notable aspects of iOS 18 is its focus on integrating generative AI. This includes enhanced capabilities for Siri. It aims to use large language models to provide smarter and more context-aware responses. In addition to Siri, AI functionalities are expected to be integrated into other apps like Apple Music, Pages, and Keynote. For example, in Apple Music, users might see auto-generated playlists, while in Pages and Keynote, AI-assisted writing and slide deck creation are potential features​​​​.
• Rich Communication Services (RCS): Another significant feature expected in iOS 18 is the adoption of RCS. This modern alternative to traditional SMS and MMS messaging aims to improve text interactions between iPhone and Android users. RCS will support features like higher-resolution photos and videos, audio messages, cross-platform emoji reactions, read receipts, real-time typing indicators, and more. This would make texting with an Android user feel like texting another iPhone user.
• Other Features and Improvements: While information on iOS 18 is limited, it is expected to feature unique capabilities. For instance, the integration of AI in Xcode could help developers in more efficient application development.

Related: iOS 17 Features and Specifications

New Apple TV 4K

The new Apple TV 4K is rumored to be released in the first half of 2024. Key aspects of the upcoming device, based on current rumors, include:

• Processor Upgrade: There’s speculation that the new Apple TV 4K might feature the A16 processor could be equipped with the A17 Pro chip. This chip is particularly notable as it’s Apple’s first 3-nanometer chip. It includes a 6-core GPU capable of supporting hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This upgrade could bring console-quality gaming to the Apple TV. This will come with more realistic graphics and the potential to run several console games​​.
• Wi-Fi Enhancements: To keep up with modern connectivity standards, the new Apple TV 4K might support Wi-Fi 6E or even Wi-Fi 7. These advanced Wi-Fi protocols would enable faster 6GHz band usage. This will significantly improve streaming and content download speeds.
• Other Features and Connectivity: It’s expected that the new Apple TV 4K will continue to offer both Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Ethernet models. Additionally, it should maintain its role as a home hub for smart home products. Bluetooth 5.3 might also be a new addition, enhancing the device’s connectivity capabilities​​.
• Future Innovations: Beyond the next-generation Apple TV 4K, Apple is rumored to be working on a product that combines the functionalities of Apple TV, a smart speaker, and a FaceTime camera. There’s also talk of a smart home display that could act as a central hub for controlling smart home products. It will possibly feature Apple TV functionality and launch as soon as 2024. However, these are distinct from the Apple TV 4K model currently in development​​.

Related: How to clean your TV Screen like a Pro

iPhone 16 Models

The iPhone 16 series is expected to be released in September 2024. The expected developments are detailed below:

• Design and Display: The standard iPhone 16 models are likely to maintain a similar appearance to their predecessors, the iPhone 15 models, with no major alterations in size or design. However, the iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to have slightly larger displays. The iPhone 16 Pro could have a 6.3-inch display, up from the 6.1-inch display of the iPhone 15 Pro. The iPhone 16 Pro Max might come with a 6.9-inch display, an increase from the 6.7-inch display of its predecessor​​.
• Camera Improvements: An expected update in the iPhone 16 series is the upgrade in the camera system. The new line-up is speculated to adopt a vertical camera arrangement, enhancing spatial video capture capabilities. This would be a departure from the diagonal lens setup seen in previous models. Specifically, the iPhone 16 Pro models are rumored to receive an upgraded 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera. It would work similarly to the existing 48-megapixel main camera sensor, utilizing computational photography techniques​​​​.
• Capture Button and Spatial Video Features: An addition to the iPhone 16 series could be a new ‘Capture Button’. It will be positioned on the right side of the device under the power button. This button, offering haptic feedback and supporting multiple pressure levels, is designed for easy video recording.

Related: Why does the iPhone 15 get hot?

Mac Updates

In 2024, Apple is expected to update different models in its Mac line-up. Below is a more detailed look at the potential updates:

• Mac mini: The Mac mini, last refreshed with M2 chips in January 2023, is due for another update. While there’s no specific information on when this update will happen, it’s anticipated that any new version will include further improvements in processing power and efficiency.
• MacBook Pro: It’s not clear if there will be a 2024 update for the MacBook Pro, especially since the M4 chip isn’t expected yet. Apple sometimes refreshes the MacBook Pro annually, so there’s still a possibility of some form of update.
• Mac Studio: The Mac Studio, which received M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips in June 2023, might see an upgrade with an M3 Ultra chip at some point in 2024. This would continue the trend of offering high-performance options in Apple’s desktop line.
• Mac Pro: Similar to the Mac Studio, the Mac Pro was also refreshed in June 2023 with the M2 Ultra chip. There’s speculation that a new version with an M3 Ultra chip could be in the works. This would further improve its capabilities as a powerful workstation for professional users.
• iMac Pro: Apple may introduce a larger, 32-inch iMac Pro, which would replace the previously discontinued 27-inch iMac. The exact timeline for this release is uncertain, but it could occur in 2024. This would mark a significant update for the iMac line, offering more screen real estate and improved performance for professional users.

Related: How to Start and Stop Screen Recording on a Mac

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Apple Rumors for 2024

Apple rumors for 2024 are exciting for tech enthusiasts and Apple users alike. While it’s essential to take these rumors with a pinch of salt, the potential advancements and new product categories underscore Apple’s commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction. From the speculated enhancements in the iPhone series to the possible launch of augmented reality devices, 2024 promises to be a great year for Apple.