- Apple has announced a virtual media event for September 15 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern.
- It could herald Apple Watch Series 6, a new iPad Air, and release dates for iOS 14, watchOS 7, and more.
- However, you might not see an iPhone 12 at the event – it could wait until later.
Apple isn’t letting the COVID-19 pandemic stand in the way of its usual September event, though it will be significantly different this time around – it may not even include iPhones. The company has announced a virtual event (via VentureBeat) on September 15 at 1 p.m. east.
As expected, the company does not provide any real indication of what to expect. The Apple logo swirled in blue offers no obvious clues. However, a mix of official news and unofficial leaks can give you an idea of what is on display in Apple Park.
Most importantly, there is no guarantee that Apple will show the iPhone 12 (or whatever it is called) on September 15th. Apple warned in its latest earnings call that the pandemic would delay the release of its next iPhones by weeks, and tech tipster Jon Prosser has suggested Apple might wait until mid-October to hold a separate event for the new phones.
Continue reading: Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Review: The Best Apple Watch Alternative
Instead, this presentation could focus on at least some of the other devices and software that will be arriving this fall. The Apple Watch Series 6 is a clear candidate for the event, as is a rumored iPad Air redesign that would resemble the Pro. There was also talk of a smaller HomePod with Apple-branded over-ear headphones. Apple also likes to announce release dates for software upgrades, so you might hear when iOS 14, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7, and macOS Big Sur will arrive.
There are some placeholders. Apple said it will unveil its first Mac based on internal silicon before 2020 is over, but that’s not sure if it will be included in a September event. An updated Apple TV could be announced if it doesn’t kick off by 2021. And there have long been reports of Apple releasing tile-like AirTags to help you find missing items.
The presentation may not directly affect you if you are an Android fan. However, there is little doubt that Apple’s fall media events often shape the competitive landscape. Don’t be surprised if your favorite Android phone, smartwatch, or tablet vendor changes their strategy to counter Apple’s launches.