September 4, 2025 • 15 mins
The tech world is buzzing with anticipation as Apple gears up for their "Awedropping" event on September 9th, 2025. With iPhone still accounting for over half of Apple's revenue and fierce competition mounting in AI, cameras, and design, this isn't just another product launch – it's a critical moment for the tech giant's future direction.
At the center of all rumors is the stunning new iPhone 17 Air, potentially measuring just 5.5mm thick and replacing the Plus model entirely. This bold design statement raises fascinating questions about necessary trade-offs – will battery life suffer? Can camera quality be maintained in such a slim profile? The standard iPhone 17 models aren't being neglected either, finally receiving the 120Hz ProMotion displays Pro users have enjoyed for years, while running on advanced A18 chips.
For photography enthusiasts and power users, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max promise substantial upgrades with the A19 Pro chip enabling professional-grade tasks directly on mobile. The redesigned camera system reportedly includes a 48-megapixel telephoto lens with impressive 8x optical zoom, while vapor chamber cooling in the Pro Max should prevent overheating during intensive tasks. JP Morgan analysts expect a $100 price increase for the Pro model, breaking the long-standing $999 starting point, likely justified by increased base storage to 256GB.
Apple Watch fans have plenty to anticipate with a complete lineup refresh. The Ultra 3 stands out with potential satellite connectivity for emergency situations when completely off-grid – a literal lifesaver for outdoor adventurers. Meanwhile, the Series 11 focuses on AI-powered features like personalized workout coaching, and the SE 3 aims to make the Apple ecosystem more accessible at a rumored sub-$200 price point. Even AirPods are evolving beyond audio with the Pro 3 potentially incorporating in-ear heart rate monitoring.
The September event won't include new Macs or iPads (expect those later), but the importance of Apple Intelligence can't be overstated. With nearly 70% of iPhone owners reportedly planning to upgrade this cycle, Apple needs to demonstrate they're not falling behind in the AI race. Mark your calendars for September 9th at 10AM Pacific, with pre-orders starting September 12th and devices hitting stores September 19th. Will you be among the first to experience Apple's next generation of devices?
Leave your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more tech updates and reviews.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Ida (00:00):
Welcome to the deep dive where we try to cut through all
the digital noise.
You can get instantlywell-informed and Wow, is there
a lot of noise this week.
Apple is absolutely buzzing.
They're gearing up for this.
What are they calling it?
They're all dropping eventTuesday, september 9th.
Right, and you are listener.
You've sent us a mountain ofsources, articles, leaks,
(00:22):
analyst reports, you name it.
So our job today, we're goingto boil all that down.
Allan (00:25):
Get to the good stuff.
Ida (00:26):
Exactly.
Find the most important nuggets, give you the shortcut to
understanding what Apple'sactually launching, what's maybe
coming later and what it allmeans for you.
Allan (00:36):
Yeah, and this isn't just another date on the calendar
for Apple.
It feels pretty critical.
High states, definitely.
I mean the iPhone still makesup more than half their revenue.
Ida (00:45):
Yeah.
Allan (00:45):
That's huge and the competition, especially on AI on
cameras, it's fierce Right.
And that awe-dropping name yeah, it's not just marketing stuff.
I don't think it really pointstowards some bold design moves,
maybe some interesting newcolors across the board.
Ida (01:01):
Okay, let's dive right into the main event then the iPhone
17 series.
It feels like, from everythingwe're seeing, there's one
particular model that's justgetting all the buzz.
Allan (01:12):
Oh, absolutely, you mean the iPhone 17 Air.
Ida (01:14):
That's the one.
Allan (01:14):
Yeah, it's definitely the talk of the town, and for good
reason.
The rumor is it's going to beincredibly thin, like 5.5
millimeters 1.5, wow.
If that's true, it'd easily bethe thinnest iPhone ever.
Some sources are even saying itmight completely replace the
iPhone 17 Plus in the lineup.
Ida (01:32):
Okay, replace the Plus.
That's a big shift.
Allan (01:34):
It is.
It shows Apple's really pushingthe design envelope here.
Ida (01:37):
But here's where my skepticism kicks in.
A super thin phone soundsamazing, looks great, sure, but
are there trade-offs?
There usually are right.
When you push the physics thathard, something's got to give.
Is it battery?
Is it the camera?
Are they maybe betting too muchon just looking sleek?
Allan (01:55):
That's the million-dollar question, isn't it?
And analysts like BrandonNispel at KeyBank?
They're asking the same thingthe sources do point to
compromises like maybe only asingle lens camera and all
certainly shorter battery life.
You just can't fit as muchbattery in that slim chassis.
Ida (02:10):
Right.
Allan (02:11):
And Niswold's point is that thinness alone might not be
enough, especially after theiPhone 16 plus had kind of a
lukewarm reception.
But on the aesthetics front,that event logo, it really hints
.
We might see this error modelin a new light blue Could be
part of that awe-dropping designpush.
Ida (02:30):
Okay, what about the Pro models For the people who want?
You know, all the bells andwhistles, the top-tier stuff?
Allan (02:35):
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are looking like they'll
get some pretty significantboosts.
They're expected to have thenew A19 Pro chip.
Ida (02:43):
Faster, obviously.
Allan (02:44):
Yeah, but not just faster loading apps.
Think more like enablingpro-level tasks.
Yeah, editing high-res video,running complex software right
on the phone, really blurringthat line between mobile and
pre-workstations.
Ida (02:55):
Okay.
Allan (02:56):
But the big story for many, I think, will be the
camera.
Rumors point to a new, muchlarger pill-shaped camera bump.
Ida (03:03):
Bigger bump.
People love those or hate them.
Allan (03:05):
Huh, yeah, but inside a 48-megapixel telephoto lens
offering up to 8x optical zoom.
Eight times optical, optical,that's the rumor.
And there's also talk that dualrecording you know, shooting
video with front and backcameras at the same time might
finally be a native feature.
Ida (03:22):
Okay, 8x optical zoom.
That sounds impressive on paper, but how do they make that
actually usable for, you know,someone like me, not just a spec
?
Is it going to be genuinelyuseful photography or just lead
to more shaky pictures ofsquirrels from really far away?
And with all that power?
What about, like dropping itand does it get hot?
Allan (03:41):
Good points.
Making powerful tech easy isalways Apple's trick.
Right For durability.
The rumor is the Pro modelsmight switch to mainly aluminum
on the back instead of all glass.
That could help.
Ida (03:52):
Okay, Less shatter prone maybe.
Allan (03:53):
Maybe and to handle the heat from that A19 Pro and the
camera.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is tippedto get vapor chamber cooling.
Ah, like in gaming laptops,Exactly To quote the source help
it remain cooler for a lotlonger.
So better sustained performancefor gaming or shooting long
videos Makes sense.
And yeah, tying back to theall-dropping colors, we might
(04:14):
see the Pros in a new shade oforange, or maybe copper.
Ida (04:17):
Interesting.
So okay, pro gets the fancychip big zoom, better cooling,
maybe new colors.
What about the regular iPhone17?
Is it just getting last year's?
Allan (04:27):
leftovers?
Not at all, actually.
This could be a big year forthe standard models too.
They're finally rumored to get120 hertz display.
Ida (04:34):
Finally, promotion on the standard iPhone.
Allan (04:37):
Looks like it.
That means much smootherscrolling animations, just a
generally nicer feel to use.
It's been long overdue.
Ida (04:43):
Yeah, definitely.
Allan (04:44):
And they'll run on advanced A18 chips.
So still a solid performanceupgrade, no slouch.
Ida (04:49):
Okay, let's talk money, because you know for a lot of
people listening, that's thebottom line.
Are these shiny new featuresgoing to cost us more?
Allan (04:55):
Well, estimates from JP Morgan suggest the iPhone 17 Pro
, specifically, will see a $100price bump, landing at $1,099.
Ida (05:05):
Oof why.
Allan (05:06):
The thinking is it's likely tied to bumping the base
storage to 256 GB.
But yeah, it breaks thateight-year run of the Pro
starting at $999.
No-transcript, but the standardiPhone 17 and the Pro Max.
They're expected to stay at$799 and $1199 respectively.
Ida (05:24):
Okay, and the Air, that new thin one.
Allan (05:27):
That one might slot in between maybe $899 or $949.
Still premium.
Ida (05:32):
So, yeah, definitely something for you to think about
that price versus featuresequation.
What about accessories?
Anything interesting happeningwith cases or SIM cards?
Allan (05:41):
Yes, Good news on the case front.
Maybe Remember those fine wovencases.
Ida (05:45):
Yeah, don't remind me, mine looked terrible after like a
month.
Allan (05:49):
Right, they were pretty ill-fated.
Well, they're supposedly beingreplaced by new tech woven
fabric cases designed to be moredurable, more sustainable.
Ida (05:57):
Better Hope so.
Allan (05:58):
And they might have cutouts for straps or lanyards.
Practical touch Also a biggershift, the iPhone 17, might go
e-STEM only in more countries,not just the US.
Ida (06:07):
Ah, okay, that changes how you set up your phone service.
Allan (06:10):
Yep Something to be aware of if you travel or switch
carriers often.
Ida (06:13):
All right, let's shift gears From our pockets to our
wrists.
Apple Watch we're shaking outthere Sounds like a full refresh
across the line.
Allan (06:20):
It does.
We're expecting three newmodels the Apple Watch Series 11
, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and anew Apple Watch SE 3.
And all three are expected torun on a new S11 chip and use
the new WatchOS 26 software.
So a baseline performance andfeature bump for everyone.
Ida (06:37):
What really jumps out at me , though, is how targeted each
one seems.
Let's talk about the AppleWatch Ultra 3.
That sounds like it's forserious adventurers.
Allan (06:46):
Oh, absolutely.
The Ultra 3 is clearly aimed atthe outdoor extreme sports
crowd.
The headline feature rumoredsatellite connectivity Satellite
like the iPhone.
Yeah for emergency SOS whenyou're completely off grid, no
Wi-Fi and no cell signal couldbe a literal lifesaver for
hikers, climbers, that sort ofthing.
Ida (07:05):
Wow, that's actually a huge peace of mind.
Allan (07:08):
Definitely it's also expected to get 5G REDCap
support.
That's a more efficient type of5G.
Yeah so better data withoutkilling the battery, a slightly
larger 2.12 inch display andadvanced health stuff like blood
pressure monitoring.
Ida (07:19):
Blood pressure on the watch okay.
Allan (07:21):
Plus the usual oxygen levels and all that.
It's a beast.
Ida (07:23):
So satellite on your wrist?
Game changer for some people.
What about the regular Series?
11 for you know, the rest of usjust trying to close our rings.
Allan (07:33):
The Apple Watch Series 11 seems focused on making
everyday use smarter.
You'll have the S11 chip, bloodoxygen sensing, but the big
addition seems to be AIintegration.
Ida (07:42):
Ah, Apple intelligence coming to the watch.
Allan (07:45):
Looks like it.
Things like a workout buddyfeature for personalized
coaching during exercise,smarter widgets just making the
watch more proactively helpfulthroughout your day.
Ida (07:53):
Okay, and for people who want the Apple Watch experience
but maybe not the Series 11price tag, the SE Right.
Allan (08:00):
The Apple Watch SE 3 should bring that smooth S11
performance and the core watchOS26 features down to a more
affordable level.
Rumors put it around $250,maybe even under $200.
Ida (08:12):
No, wow, that's really accessible.
Allan (08:14):
Yeah, it makes the core Apple Watch features available
to a much wider audience.
Gets more people into thatecosystem.
Smart move.
Ida (08:19):
Okay, next up, audio AirPods.
Feels like we're due for anupdate there, especially the
Pros.
Allan (08:25):
We are, and the AirPods Pro 3 are expected.
Upgrades look like improvedactive noise cancellation,
better sound, maybe a slightlytweaked design.
Standards, Pretty standard yeah, but the surprising bit new
health tracking featuresspecifically in-ear heart rate
monitoring.
Ida (08:41):
Heart rate in your earbuds.
Allan (08:43):
Using IR sensors, apparently, so you could track
your heart rate during a workoutjust using your AirPods.
No watch needed.
Ida (08:50):
That's unexpected and kind of cool, blurs the lines even
more.
Allan (08:53):
Exactly Pushes AirPods deeper into that health and
wellness space.
Ida (08:56):
Okay, so that brings us to the big picture software and
specifically AI.
Everyone's talking about AI.
Apple seemed a bit behindwhat's happening with iOS 26 and
Apple intelligence.
Allan (09:07):
Yeah, this is huge.
Both iOS 26 for iPhones andwatchOS 26 are expected to get a
visual refresh, somethingcalled a liquid glass design.
Ida (09:15):
Sounds sleek, Okay, new look.
But the core is the AI right.
Allan (09:19):
Absolutely, the core is Apple intelligence and the core
is the AI right.
Absolutely, the core is Appleintelligence and the pressure is
really on Apple here.
They need to show they cancompete with Google's Gemini
features, samsung's Galaxy AI.
Ida (09:30):
They do feel like they're playing a bit of catch up.
Allan (09:31):
They do, and sources are pretty blunt about it.
One quote was Appleintelligence could ultimately
make or break the iPhone 17.
Ida (09:40):
Wow, make or break, that's strong.
Allan (09:43):
It is.
It shows how critical AI isbecoming to the whole smartphone
experience.
It's not just a feature anymore.
It's becoming fundamental.
Ida (09:51):
So what features can we actually expect If the betas
were minimal?
What will users like you and meactually see initially?
Allan (09:59):
Good question.
It sounds like visualintelligence is where the most
noticeable upgrades will be atlaunch.
Ida (10:04):
Meaning.
Allan (10:06):
Enhanced photo editing, removing objects, maybe
generating parts of images,searching your photos in much
smarter ways using naturallanguage Stuff like Google's
Magic Editor or Ask Photos.
Ida (10:17):
Okay, so smarter photo stuff and on the watch.
Allan (10:20):
On watchOS 26.
We mentioned the workout buddy,that's AI-powered fitness
guidance.
So AI will be there, but maybemore focused initially, not
quite the all-encompassingassistant.
Some rivals are pushing yet.
Ida (10:31):
Right, they need a strong showing, though.
Allan (10:33):
Definitely they can't afford to fall further behind in
the AI race.
Ida (10:36):
OK, it's really easy to get hyped up about all the new toys
that are coming, but it's justas important for you, the
listener, to know what won't beat this September event.
Apple likes to spread thingsout, right.
Allan (10:46):
Exactly, they have a pattern.
September is almost alwaysiPhone and watch.
Macs and iPads usually gettheir own event, maybe in
October, sometimes even later orearlier, like in May.
So don't expect those next week.
Nope, definitely not expectedat the September 9th event in
May.
So don't expect those next week.
Nope, definitely not expectedat the September 9th event.
So if you are holding yourbreath for a new Mac or iPad
announcement, you can exhale.
Ida (11:06):
So just to be crystal clear no M4 Mac Pros, no M5 MacBooks,
no new iPads like the 12th genbase model, the 8th gen mini or
those rumored M5 iPad Pros.
Allan (11:18):
Correct On all counts.
Those are further down the road, late 2025, 2026, maybe even
2027 for some of those Macs.
We expect a flurry of newproducts, including iPads, but
likely starting early 2026.
Ida (11:30):
What about other big ticket items?
Vision Pro HomePod.
Allan (11:33):
A refreshed Apple Vision Pro, maybe with an M5 chip,
seems likely before the end ofthis year, 2025, but definitely
not next week.
The next AirPods Max headphones?
Probably not.
Yeah, and even that rumoredHomePod smart display, the thing
to compete with Google Nest Hub?
That's reportedly delayed until2026.
And the reason given wasspecifically to better prepare
(11:57):
Apple intelligence for it.
Ida (11:59):
Interesting AI is holding things up.
Allan (12:01):
It seems like it.
Oh, and the cheaper iPhone 17.
That usually comes in thespring, so think early 2026 for
that one.
Ida (12:07):
Got it Any wild cards?
Anything that might just sneakin Apple does like a surprise
sometimes.
Allan (12:13):
They do.
It's possible we could see anAirTag 2 or maybe a fourth gen
Apple TV 4K, perhaps with an A17Pro chip for better gaming.
Ida (12:22):
Okay.
Allan (12:22):
Or even a HomePod Mini 2 with an S9 chip.
These are smaller updates thatcould potentially slot in, but,
yeah, definitely less certainthan the iPhones and watches.
Don't bet the farm on them.
Ida (12:31):
Right, okay, so lots of exciting tech potentially coming
, but let's zoom out a bit.
What's the actual impact herebeyond just the new gadgets?
How do these events usuallyaffect Apple in the market?
Allan (12:41):
Well, historically you often see Apple stock price get
a little bump right after theevent Excitement buzz but then
quite often there's some profittaking.
The price settles down a bit asthe market kind of digests
everything.
The real long-term impactdepends on how well the products
actually sell.
Ida (12:58):
And the stakes are high, as you said, with the iPhone being
so dominant.
Allan (13:01):
Exactly.
But what's really interesting,there was a recent survey.
It indicated that nearly 7 in10 iPhone owners in the United
States plan to upgrade to aniPhone 17 model Seven out of 10.
Ida (13:14):
That's huge.
Are we just creatures of habit,or is there something genuinely
compelling them this year?
Allan (13:20):
It's a massive indicator.
Right Suggests a potentiallyvery strong upgrade cycle ahead,
which would be great news forApple's bottom line.
It shows that even if upgradesseem incremental sometimes, that
loyalty is incredibly powerful.
But they do face that intensecompetition, especially on AI
and cameras from Google, fromSamsung.
They have to keep innovatingaggressively and internally.
(13:43):
There's another interestingtidbit Apple is reportedly
pushing for more automation inmanufacturing.
Ida (13:48):
More robots.
Allan (13:49):
Yeah, robots over people was the phrase used.
The goal is lower labor costs,better consistency, uniformity
in the products.
It's a big industry trend too.
Ida (13:57):
Okay, so for you, the listener, maybe planning an
upgrade or just wanting the newsoftware.
What are the key dates?
Let's lock those in.
Allan (14:05):
Right.
The event itself Awedropping isTuesday, september 9th 2025.
Starts at 10.00 am Pacific time.
Okay iPhone 17 pre-orders areexpected to pick off that Friday
September 12th, likely at 5.00am Pacific.
Get your coffee ready for thatone Early start, mm-hmm.
Then the iOS 26 softwarerelease for everyone's existing
(14:25):
compatible devices.
That's usually the followingMonday September 15th, probably
around 5.00 am Pacific again.
Ida (14:31):
Okay, so software update first.
Allan (14:32):
Usually yeah.
And finally the new iPhone 17models actually go on sale in
stores and arrive frompre-orders on Friday, september
19th, typically starting at 7.00am local time around the world.
Ida (14:44):
Got it.
Mark your calendars.
So, wrapping this up, whetheryou're intrigued by that super
thin iPhone 17 Air and itspotential compromises, right.
Or maybe you're dreaming ofhaving satellite SOS on your
Apple Watch Ultra for thoseoff-grid adventures, or you're
just really curious to see howApple intelligence finally
starts showing up and maybemakes your photos smarter or
(15:04):
your workouts better.
This odd dropping event looksset to bring some pretty
significant changes.
Allan (15:10):
It really does.
Apple's strategy seems clearShore up the iPhone and watch
Core, make them compellingupgrades, while laying the
groundwork with AI and hintingat those future products.
It's less about justincremental bumps now and more
about strengthening the wholeecosystem and staying ahead, or
at least competitive, in thisreally tough market,
strengthening the wholeecosystem and staying ahead, or
(15:30):
at least competitive, in thisreally tough market.
Ida (15:31):
So what stands out most to you from all this?
Are you listener part of thatnearly 70% already planning an
iPhone 17 upgrade?
Or are you maybe holding out,waiting for one of those Macs or
iPads, or maybe even the nextVision Pro down the line?
Lots to think about between nowand September 9th.
This deep dive definitely givesus plenty to chew on.
Welcome to the deep dive where we try to cut through all
the digital noise.
You can get instantlywell-informed and Wow, is there
a lot of noise this week.
Apple is absolutely buzzing.
They're gearing up for this.
What are they calling it?
They're all dropping eventTuesday, september 9th.
Right, and you are listener.
You've sent us a mountain ofsources, articles, leaks,
(00:22):
analyst reports, you name it.
So our job today, we're goingto boil all that down.
Allan (00:25):
Get to the good stuff.
Ida (00:26):
Exactly.
Find the most important nuggets, give you the shortcut to
understanding what Apple'sactually launching, what's maybe
coming later and what it allmeans for you.
Allan (00:36):
Yeah, and this isn't just another date on the calendar
for Apple.
It feels pretty critical.
High states, definitely.
I mean the iPhone still makesup more than half their revenue.
Ida (00:45):
Yeah.
Allan (00:45):
That's huge and the competition, especially on AI on
cameras, it's fierce Right.
And that awe-dropping name yeah, it's not just marketing stuff.
I don't think it really pointstowards some bold design moves,
maybe some interesting newcolors across the board.
Ida (01:01):
Okay, let's dive right into the main event then the iPhone
17 series.
It feels like, from everythingwe're seeing, there's one
particular model that's justgetting all the buzz.
Allan (01:12):
Oh, absolutely, you mean the iPhone 17 Air.
Ida (01:14):
That's the one.
Allan (01:14):
Yeah, it's definitely the talk of the town, and for good
reason.
The rumor is it's going to beincredibly thin, like 5.5
millimeters 1.5, wow.
If that's true, it'd easily bethe thinnest iPhone ever.
Some sources are even saying itmight completely replace the
iPhone 17 Plus in the lineup.
Ida (01:32):
Okay, replace the Plus.
That's a big shift.
Allan (01:34):
It is.
It shows Apple's really pushingthe design envelope here.
Ida (01:37):
But here's where my skepticism kicks in.
A super thin phone soundsamazing, looks great, sure, but
are there trade-offs?
There usually are right.
When you push the physics thathard, something's got to give.
Is it battery?
Is it the camera?
Are they maybe betting too muchon just looking sleek?
Allan (01:55):
That's the million-dollar question, isn't it?
And analysts like BrandonNispel at KeyBank?
They're asking the same thingthe sources do point to
compromises like maybe only asingle lens camera and all
certainly shorter battery life.
You just can't fit as muchbattery in that slim chassis.
Ida (02:10):
Right.
Allan (02:11):
And Niswold's point is that thinness alone might not be
enough, especially after theiPhone 16 plus had kind of a
lukewarm reception.
But on the aesthetics front,that event logo, it really hints
.
We might see this error modelin a new light blue Could be
part of that awe-dropping designpush.
Ida (02:30):
Okay, what about the Pro models For the people who want?
You know, all the bells andwhistles, the top-tier stuff?
Allan (02:35):
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are looking like they'll
get some pretty significantboosts.
They're expected to have thenew A19 Pro chip.
Ida (02:43):
Faster, obviously.
Allan (02:44):
Yeah, but not just faster loading apps.
Think more like enablingpro-level tasks.
Yeah, editing high-res video,running complex software right
on the phone, really blurringthat line between mobile and
pre-workstations.
Ida (02:55):
Okay.
Allan (02:56):
But the big story for many, I think, will be the
camera.
Rumors point to a new, muchlarger pill-shaped camera bump.
Ida (03:03):
Bigger bump.
People love those or hate them.
Allan (03:05):
Huh, yeah, but inside a 48-megapixel telephoto lens
offering up to 8x optical zoom.
Eight times optical, optical,that's the rumor.
And there's also talk that dualrecording you know, shooting
video with front and backcameras at the same time might
finally be a native feature.
Ida (03:22):
Okay, 8x optical zoom.
That sounds impressive on paper, but how do they make that
actually usable for, you know,someone like me, not just a spec
?
Is it going to be genuinelyuseful photography or just lead
to more shaky pictures ofsquirrels from really far away?
And with all that power?
What about, like dropping itand does it get hot?
Allan (03:41):
Good points.
Making powerful tech easy isalways Apple's trick.
Right For durability.
The rumor is the Pro modelsmight switch to mainly aluminum
on the back instead of all glass.
That could help.
Ida (03:52):
Okay, Less shatter prone maybe.
Allan (03:53):
Maybe and to handle the heat from that A19 Pro and the
camera.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is tippedto get vapor chamber cooling.
Ah, like in gaming laptops,Exactly To quote the source help
it remain cooler for a lotlonger.
So better sustained performancefor gaming or shooting long
videos Makes sense.
And yeah, tying back to theall-dropping colors, we might
(04:14):
see the Pros in a new shade oforange, or maybe copper.
Ida (04:17):
Interesting.
So okay, pro gets the fancychip big zoom, better cooling,
maybe new colors.
What about the regular iPhone17?
Is it just getting last year's?
Allan (04:27):
leftovers?
Not at all, actually.
This could be a big year forthe standard models too.
They're finally rumored to get120 hertz display.
Ida (04:34):
Finally, promotion on the standard iPhone.
Allan (04:37):
Looks like it.
That means much smootherscrolling animations, just a
generally nicer feel to use.
It's been long overdue.
Ida (04:43):
Yeah, definitely.
Allan (04:44):
And they'll run on advanced A18 chips.
So still a solid performanceupgrade, no slouch.
Ida (04:49):
Okay, let's talk money, because you know for a lot of
people listening, that's thebottom line.
Are these shiny new featuresgoing to cost us more?
Allan (04:55):
Well, estimates from JP Morgan suggest the iPhone 17 Pro
, specifically, will see a $100price bump, landing at $1,099.
Ida (05:05):
Oof why.
Allan (05:06):
The thinking is it's likely tied to bumping the base
storage to 256 GB.
But yeah, it breaks thateight-year run of the Pro
starting at $999.
No-transcript, but the standardiPhone 17 and the Pro Max.
They're expected to stay at$799 and $1199 respectively.
Ida (05:24):
Okay, and the Air, that new thin one.
Allan (05:27):
That one might slot in between maybe $899 or $949.
Still premium.
Ida (05:32):
So, yeah, definitely something for you to think about
that price versus featuresequation.
What about accessories?
Anything interesting happeningwith cases or SIM cards?
Allan (05:41):
Yes, Good news on the case front.
Maybe Remember those fine wovencases.
Ida (05:45):
Yeah, don't remind me, mine looked terrible after like a
month.
Allan (05:49):
Right, they were pretty ill-fated.
Well, they're supposedly beingreplaced by new tech woven
fabric cases designed to be moredurable, more sustainable.
Ida (05:57):
Better Hope so.
Allan (05:58):
And they might have cutouts for straps or lanyards.
Practical touch Also a biggershift, the iPhone 17, might go
e-STEM only in more countries,not just the US.
Ida (06:07):
Ah, okay, that changes how you set up your phone service.
Allan (06:10):
Yep Something to be aware of if you travel or switch
carriers often.
Ida (06:13):
All right, let's shift gears From our pockets to our
wrists.
Apple Watch we're shaking outthere Sounds like a full refresh
across the line.
Allan (06:20):
It does.
We're expecting three newmodels the Apple Watch Series 11
, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and anew Apple Watch SE 3.
And all three are expected torun on a new S11 chip and use
the new WatchOS 26 software.
So a baseline performance andfeature bump for everyone.
Ida (06:37):
What really jumps out at me , though, is how targeted each
one seems.
Let's talk about the AppleWatch Ultra 3.
That sounds like it's forserious adventurers.
Allan (06:46):
Oh, absolutely.
The Ultra 3 is clearly aimed atthe outdoor extreme sports
crowd.
The headline feature rumoredsatellite connectivity Satellite
like the iPhone.
Yeah for emergency SOS whenyou're completely off grid, no
Wi-Fi and no cell signal couldbe a literal lifesaver for
hikers, climbers, that sort ofthing.
Ida (07:05):
Wow, that's actually a huge peace of mind.
Allan (07:08):
Definitely it's also expected to get 5G REDCap
support.
That's a more efficient type of5G.
Yeah so better data withoutkilling the battery, a slightly
larger 2.12 inch display andadvanced health stuff like blood
pressure monitoring.
Ida (07:19):
Blood pressure on the watch okay.
Allan (07:21):
Plus the usual oxygen levels and all that.
It's a beast.
Ida (07:23):
So satellite on your wrist?
Game changer for some people.
What about the regular Series?
11 for you know, the rest of usjust trying to close our rings.
Allan (07:33):
The Apple Watch Series 11 seems focused on making
everyday use smarter.
You'll have the S11 chip, bloodoxygen sensing, but the big
addition seems to be AIintegration.
Ida (07:42):
Ah, Apple intelligence coming to the watch.
Allan (07:45):
Looks like it.
Things like a workout buddyfeature for personalized
coaching during exercise,smarter widgets just making the
watch more proactively helpfulthroughout your day.
Ida (07:53):
Okay, and for people who want the Apple Watch experience
but maybe not the Series 11price tag, the SE Right.
Allan (08:00):
The Apple Watch SE 3 should bring that smooth S11
performance and the core watchOS26 features down to a more
affordable level.
Rumors put it around $250,maybe even under $200.
Ida (08:12):
No, wow, that's really accessible.
Allan (08:14):
Yeah, it makes the core Apple Watch features available
to a much wider audience.
Gets more people into thatecosystem.
Smart move.
Ida (08:19):
Okay, next up, audio AirPods.
Feels like we're due for anupdate there, especially the
Pros.
Allan (08:25):
We are, and the AirPods Pro 3 are expected.
Upgrades look like improvedactive noise cancellation,
better sound, maybe a slightlytweaked design.
Standards, Pretty standard yeah, but the surprising bit new
health tracking featuresspecifically in-ear heart rate
monitoring.
Ida (08:41):
Heart rate in your earbuds.
Allan (08:43):
Using IR sensors, apparently, so you could track
your heart rate during a workoutjust using your AirPods.
No watch needed.
Ida (08:50):
That's unexpected and kind of cool, blurs the lines even
more.
Allan (08:53):
Exactly Pushes AirPods deeper into that health and
wellness space.
Ida (08:56):
Okay, so that brings us to the big picture software and
specifically AI.
Everyone's talking about AI.
Apple seemed a bit behindwhat's happening with iOS 26 and
Apple intelligence.
Allan (09:07):
Yeah, this is huge.
Both iOS 26 for iPhones andwatchOS 26 are expected to get a
visual refresh, somethingcalled a liquid glass design.
Ida (09:15):
Sounds sleek, Okay, new look.
But the core is the AI right.
Allan (09:19):
Absolutely, the core is Apple intelligence and the core
is the AI right.
Absolutely, the core is Appleintelligence and the pressure is
really on Apple here.
They need to show they cancompete with Google's Gemini
features, samsung's Galaxy AI.
Ida (09:30):
They do feel like they're playing a bit of catch up.
Allan (09:31):
They do, and sources are pretty blunt about it.
One quote was Appleintelligence could ultimately
make or break the iPhone 17.
Ida (09:40):
Wow, make or break, that's strong.
Allan (09:43):
It is.
It shows how critical AI isbecoming to the whole smartphone
experience.
It's not just a feature anymore.
It's becoming fundamental.
Ida (09:51):
So what features can we actually expect If the betas
were minimal?
What will users like you and meactually see initially?
Allan (09:59):
Good question.
It sounds like visualintelligence is where the most
noticeable upgrades will be atlaunch.
Ida (10:04):
Meaning.
Allan (10:06):
Enhanced photo editing, removing objects, maybe
generating parts of images,searching your photos in much
smarter ways using naturallanguage Stuff like Google's
Magic Editor or Ask Photos.
Ida (10:17):
Okay, so smarter photo stuff and on the watch.
Allan (10:20):
On watchOS 26.
We mentioned the workout buddy,that's AI-powered fitness
guidance.
So AI will be there, but maybemore focused initially, not
quite the all-encompassingassistant.
Some rivals are pushing yet.
Ida (10:31):
Right, they need a strong showing, though.
Allan (10:33):
Definitely they can't afford to fall further behind in
the AI race.
Ida (10:36):
OK, it's really easy to get hyped up about all the new toys
that are coming, but it's justas important for you, the
listener, to know what won't beat this September event.
Apple likes to spread thingsout, right.
Allan (10:46):
Exactly, they have a pattern.
September is almost alwaysiPhone and watch.
Macs and iPads usually gettheir own event, maybe in
October, sometimes even later orearlier, like in May.
So don't expect those next week.
Nope, definitely not expectedat the September 9th event in
May.
So don't expect those next week.
Nope, definitely not expectedat the September 9th event.
So if you are holding yourbreath for a new Mac or iPad
announcement, you can exhale.
Ida (11:06):
So just to be crystal clear no M4 Mac Pros, no M5 MacBooks,
no new iPads like the 12th genbase model, the 8th gen mini or
those rumored M5 iPad Pros.
Allan (11:18):
Correct On all counts.
Those are further down the road, late 2025, 2026, maybe even
2027 for some of those Macs.
We expect a flurry of newproducts, including iPads, but
likely starting early 2026.
Ida (11:30):
What about other big ticket items?
Vision Pro HomePod.
Allan (11:33):
A refreshed Apple Vision Pro, maybe with an M5 chip,
seems likely before the end ofthis year, 2025, but definitely
not next week.
The next AirPods Max headphones?
Probably not.
Yeah, and even that rumoredHomePod smart display, the thing
to compete with Google Nest Hub?
That's reportedly delayed until2026.
And the reason given wasspecifically to better prepare
(11:57):
Apple intelligence for it.
Ida (11:59):
Interesting AI is holding things up.
Allan (12:01):
It seems like it.
Oh, and the cheaper iPhone 17.
That usually comes in thespring, so think early 2026 for
that one.
Ida (12:07):
Got it Any wild cards?
Anything that might just sneakin Apple does like a surprise
sometimes.
Allan (12:13):
They do.
It's possible we could see anAirTag 2 or maybe a fourth gen
Apple TV 4K, perhaps with an A17Pro chip for better gaming.
Ida (12:22):
Okay.
Allan (12:22):
Or even a HomePod Mini 2 with an S9 chip.
These are smaller updates thatcould potentially slot in, but,
yeah, definitely less certainthan the iPhones and watches.
Don't bet the farm on them.
Ida (12:31):
Right, okay, so lots of exciting tech potentially coming
, but let's zoom out a bit.
What's the actual impact herebeyond just the new gadgets?
How do these events usuallyaffect Apple in the market?
Allan (12:41):
Well, historically you often see Apple stock price get
a little bump right after theevent Excitement buzz but then
quite often there's some profittaking.
The price settles down a bit asthe market kind of digests
everything.
The real long-term impactdepends on how well the products
actually sell.
Ida (12:58):
And the stakes are high, as you said, with the iPhone being
so dominant.
Allan (13:01):
Exactly.
But what's really interesting,there was a recent survey.
It indicated that nearly 7 in10 iPhone owners in the United
States plan to upgrade to aniPhone 17 model Seven out of 10.
Ida (13:14):
That's huge.
Are we just creatures of habit,or is there something genuinely
compelling them this year?
Allan (13:20):
It's a massive indicator.
Right Suggests a potentiallyvery strong upgrade cycle ahead,
which would be great news forApple's bottom line.
It shows that even if upgradesseem incremental sometimes, that
loyalty is incredibly powerful.
But they do face that intensecompetition, especially on AI
and cameras from Google, fromSamsung.
They have to keep innovatingaggressively and internally.
(13:43):
There's another interestingtidbit Apple is reportedly
pushing for more automation inmanufacturing.
Ida (13:48):
More robots.
Allan (13:49):
Yeah, robots over people was the phrase used.
The goal is lower labor costs,better consistency, uniformity
in the products.
It's a big industry trend too.
Ida (13:57):
Okay, so for you, the listener, maybe planning an
upgrade or just wanting the newsoftware.
What are the key dates?
Let's lock those in.
Allan (14:05):
Right.
The event itself Awedropping isTuesday, september 9th 2025.
Starts at 10.00 am Pacific time.
Okay iPhone 17 pre-orders areexpected to pick off that Friday
September 12th, likely at 5.00am Pacific.
Get your coffee ready for thatone Early start, mm-hmm.
Then the iOS 26 softwarerelease for everyone's existing
(14:25):
compatible devices.
That's usually the followingMonday September 15th, probably
around 5.00 am Pacific again.
Ida (14:31):
Okay, so software update first.
Allan (14:32):
Usually yeah.
And finally the new iPhone 17models actually go on sale in
stores and arrive frompre-orders on Friday, september
19th, typically starting at 7.00am local time around the world.
Ida (14:44):
Got it.
Mark your calendars.
So, wrapping this up, whetheryou're intrigued by that super
thin iPhone 17 Air and itspotential compromises, right.
Or maybe you're dreaming ofhaving satellite SOS on your
Apple Watch Ultra for thoseoff-grid adventures, or you're
just really curious to see howApple intelligence finally
starts showing up and maybemakes your photos smarter or
(15:04):
your workouts better.
This odd dropping event looksset to bring some pretty
significant changes.
Allan (15:10):
It really does.
Apple's strategy seems clearShore up the iPhone and watch
Core, make them compellingupgrades, while laying the
groundwork with AI and hintingat those future products.
It's less about justincremental bumps now and more
about strengthening the wholeecosystem and staying ahead, or
at least competitive, in thisreally tough market,
strengthening the wholeecosystem and staying ahead, or
(15:30):
at least competitive, in thisreally tough market.
Ida (15:31):
So what stands out most to you from all this?
Are you listener part of thatnearly 70% already planning an
iPhone 17 upgrade?
Or are you maybe holding out,waiting for one of those Macs or
iPads, or maybe even the nextVision Pro down the line?
Lots to think about between nowand September 9th.
This deep dive definitely givesus plenty to chew on.
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