iPhone 17 Event live updates — everything Apple announced and our reactions to iPhone Air, Apple Watch 11 and AirPods Pro 3

iPhone 17 lineup price leaks for all four models

Last year Apple kept pricing for the iPhone 16 lineup the same price as before, but the iPhone 17 series might not be so lucky. Meaning we could be looking at a price hike — and a fairly big one.

A report from TrendForcehas some bad news on pricing with increases for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Air could also be $200 more expensive than the iPhone 16 Plus, which it's expected to replace.

Wait, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may not come in black? Seriously!

In a bizarre turn of events, one leaker has now claimed that we may not see a Black iPhone 17 Pro Max after all. Or at least, that's what Ice Universe's latest X post seems to suggest.

They claim to have images of "engineering models" of dark blue and a coppery orange color, clarifying that "this time there is no black version, only this dark blue."

That runs contrary to the rumors we've heard of there being four distinct color options: Blue, orange, black and white.

We're not convinced that Apple will be skipping Black, given the sheer number of rumors claiming otherwise. But we'll have to wait and see how that plays out tomorrow.

iPhone 17 battery capacities potentially leaked

Apple typically doesn't divulge the size of the batteries in iPhones. Device teardowns usually reveal this information, though.

X user ShrimpApple Pro might have actually leaked a little early. eSIM-only models may come with a slight increase in capacity this year, which is beneficial for improved battery life.

As you can see in the table above, iPhone 17 is expected to come with a 3,652mAh battery, which is over 100 mAh larger than iPhone 16. The iPhone 17 Air has a lower capacity, with 3,036 mAh (or 3,148 mAh) with eSIM, while the iPhone 17 Pro has a higher capacity, at 3,988 mAh (4,252 mAh with eSIM).

Finally, iPhone 17 Pro Max is 4,823 mAh, or 5,088 mAh with eSIM. Both are considerably higher than the battery pack in iPhone 16 Pro Max, and mark the first time an iPhone actually exceeded 5,000 mAh

Could iPhone 17 get a smaller dynamic island?

According to one tipster, the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max shrinks as Apple transforms the iconic pill-shaped cutout into an even more compact array for the front-facing camera and sensor system.

The width of the Dynamic Island could be approximately 1.5cm, down from 2cm on the iPhone 16. However, considering this particular tipster's lack of a solid track record, we're taking these rumors with a grain of salt for now.

Though it's not without some merit: Previous reports have indicated Apple plans to shrink the Dynamic Island, although this design change may not arrive until the iPhone 18 Pro. Still, Apple could be rolling it out early to improve the sales pitch for the iPhone 17 line's premium models.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 biggest upgrades

As much as we love the Apple Watch Ultra 2, after 2024 came and went with no refresh, we're ready to see what Apple does next.

Rumor has it that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 could feature three significant upgrades, including a new S11 chip, support for 5G wireless connectivity, and satellite connectivity capabilities.

For a watch designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, satellite connectivity could prove invaluable for calling for help in areas where cell phone signal is scarce.

The big 7 devices

Here are the seven major devices we think Apple will show off tomorrow, based on the rumors:

• iPhone 17
• iPhone 17 Air
• iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max
• Apple Watch Series 11
• Apple Watch Ultra 3
• Apple Watch SE 3
• AirPods Pro 3

iPhone 17 lineup price leaks (spoilers: they're not cheap)

Last year, Apple maintained the pricing for the iPhone 16 lineup, but the iPhone 17 series appears to be going up.

A report from TrendForce has some bad news on pricing with increases for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Air, which is set to replace the Plus model, could be $200 more expensive.

Will anyone miss the Plus?

The iPhone 17 Plus is going away, and the iPhone 17 Air is taking its place. At least, that's the rumor we've been hearing all over.

That brings us to our question: Will you miss the iPhone Plus?

Will it break?

Like every major new device, the iPhone 17 is likely to face scrutiny from the YouTube community, which will test its durability.

They'll smash it, bend it and do every other thing you'd never want to do with your personal phone.

Of course, we'll watch to see how it does as we test and review the phones ourselves (in a more traditional, less violent way).

Switching to USB-C on iPhone

I have an iPhone 14 Pro Max that I've been holding onto since the day Apple released.

I have approximately 1,000 Lightning cables (not literally) that I've accumulated over the years. I'm going to break down and get an iPhone 17 Pro Max this year, as my phone is getting a bit long in the tooth.

While it's exciting, the prospect of switching to USB-C and losing all those Lightning cables is scary. If you're in the same boat, don't worry, because there are tons of good USB-C cables out there to choose from, and it's easy to get the right one for your needs.

iPhone 17 Pro camera upgrades

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman posted a report about the iPhone 17 Pro's new camera features, and they sound promising.

Here's a quick look at what to expect (it's pretty exciting):

• "Major enhancements” to video recording
• Telephoto lens upgraded to 48MP, up from 12MP (huge bump)
• Variable aperture system
• Multi-cam simultaneous video recording
• Selfie camera to get its “biggest-ever upgrade”

The next must-have accessory?

To go along with the new TechWoven cases, it looks like Apple is releasing a crossbody strap (which is essentially a lanyard that matches the cases).

A new leak from Sonny Dickson showed off the crossbody accessory, and it looks pretty useful if you need a new way to carry your iPhone around.

iPhone 17 models compared

We're confident Apple is working on four iPhone 17 models. There are the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Choosing between the four models will be a personal decision requiring each shopper to weigh the cost versus specs to find the phone that suits their needs.

Thankfully, we won't leave you to decide for yourself, as we have a detailed piece that runs through everything you need to know about the four models, from screen size to processor. While these specs haven't been announced by Apple, they have been rumored enough that we're fairly confident they're accurate.

And if you don't want to click the link and read a detailed piece (though you really should, as there's a lot to learn about these exciting phones), here's a quick rundown in a handy table:

Apple 4K TV could include an improved processor

There's a lot to be excited about when it comes to Apple's 4k TV, and rumors have hinted that it could see a pretty impressive upgrade thanks to the inclusion of the A17 Pro chip. If that name sounds familiar to you, it's because it's the same chip that we saw in the iPhone 15 Pro.

So what does this mean for the Apple TV? Well, according to the original report, this updated processor could improve both the CPU and GPU performance by as much as 15% to 30%. Not only that, the A17 Processor also supports Apple Intelligence, something that prior Apple TV models lacked.

With that being said, it's still unclear what Apple plans to do with the AI when it comes to Apple TV. However, we'll hopefully get an idea of Apple's plans during the event, as well as see if some of the other rumored upgrades, such as the Apple-designed Wi-FI and Bluetooth chip, make an appearance.

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 15 Pro Max: two generations removed

If you're currently holding onto an iPhone 15 Pro Max, you might be wondering if it's worth upgrading to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. That's what we aim to explain in our iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 15 Pro Max guide, as the two-year difference between the phones could yield more significant upgrades with the newer model.

Although the overall size of the iPhone 17 Pro Max won't change, there are still other hardware changes in store for it — like the A19 Pro chip, better cameras, and yes, it would still have a larger 6.9-inch display over the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

We also expect improvements in its battery life performance, as the iPhone 16 Pro Max achieved over 17 hours on our battery drain test. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro Max topped at a little over 14 hours.

In the end, it'll come to whether those improvements sound appealing to you, but I think there's some good value in the rumored iPhone 17 Pro Max specs.

AirPods Pro 3 coming this week but you might want to wait

It's not guaranteed but we expect to see a new pair of AirPods Pro 3 announced during Apple's Awe-dropping event. However, a new rumor from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo hints that you may want to wait until 2026 to upgrade.

It is a grain of salt claim as Kuo's statement seems to contradict his own previous rumors which said we wouldn't see a new set of Airpods next year. Now, he's claiming that an upgraded pair is launching next year with significant upgrades including an IR camera version.

This year, we expect the AirPods Pro 3 to launch with a heart rate monitor ala the PowerBeats Pro 2. It's all a bit confusing as to what Apple wants to do with its earbuds so we'll be keeping a close eye on what gets announced this week and if Apple has big plans for 2026.

Will Apple have "one more thing"?

There are at least seven devices we expect Apple to launch on September 9.

However, Apple does like to throw in surprises. Does the company have one more thing to share?

We'll find out.

An AirTag sequel?

It's been a minute since we've seen a new version of Apple's AirTag — well, more like four years worth of minutes. But the long-awaited sequel to Apple's tracking device may be ready to make its debut at the Tuesday Apple event.

We've heard this before, of course, since AirTag 2 was also ready to launch as far back as this summer's WWDC 2025 conference. But the target audience there is developers, not consumers, so it ultimately didn't seem like the best venue.

If we do see new AirTags, expect the big improvement to focus on longer range precision finding with the gadget's update ultra wideband chip. We'd also expect more of a focus on privacy features than last time, as Apple had to scramble to add those controls to the original AirTag.

Liquid Glass and its iPhone 17 clues

Back when Apple previewed iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 this summer, we wondered what some of the changes to Apple's iPhone software might mean for the fall's upcoming iPhones — specifically, the Liquid Glass interface changes. Now that the iPhone 17 launch is upon us, it's worth revisiting that iOS 26 discussion between Mark Spoonauer, Kate Kozuch and Jake Krol.

iOS 26 Reveals iPhone 17 Secrets! What Liquid Glass Tell Us... - YouTube

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The burning questions about Apple's event

We've got questions heading into Tuesday's Apple event — will Apple have answers? Most likely, but here's what Philip Michaels wants to know about Apple's iPhone plans.

• Are there iPhone 17-exclusive Apple Intelligence features?
• Which iPhone 16 models will stick around?
• What is Apple going to charge for the new iPhones?
• What's the iPhone 17 Air going to offer besides a thin design?
• Just how long will the iPhone 17 Air last on a charge?

For more, read Phil's preview of the iPhone 17 event.

About the iPhone battery

There's talk that the upcoming iPhones might switch to a different type of battery — particularly the iPhone 17 Air, where the thin design doesn't necessarily lend itself to bulky power packs. Apple's solution reportedly will be to turn to a silicon-carbon battery for that model, and maybe even the other iPhone 17 offerings as well.

So what exactly is a silicon-carbon battery?

Wired has posted an explainer on the technology, but in a nutshell, it's a lithium-ion battery that replaces the graphite anode on the battery with a silicon-carbon one. That takes up less space so batteries can enjoy higher energy density from an expanded cathode.

Or at least, that's the 500-yard view. Dig into the Wired story for a more in-depth explanation of just how Apple's going to make a thinner iPhone that, theoretically, delivers battery life that's on par with with other models.

Deciding between Apple Watch models

We're expecting to see a lot of Apple Watches alongside the iPhone 17 lineup — specifically, a new Apple Watch Series 11 alongside an Apple Watch Ultra 3. As always, that's going to force anyone in the market for a new smartwatch to pick between the standard model and the higher-end Ultra.

Watch expert Dan Bracaglia has an Apple Watch 11 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 3 face-off based on the big rumors heading into the launch event. In a nutshell, expect the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to get a bigger display size; it should also maintain the tougher design and better battery life it enjoys over the standard Apple Watch. Of course, that latter device is all but guaranteed to be cheaper than the Ultra.

Beyond the iPhone 17

Apple isn't likely to release a follow-up to the iPhone 16e until next spring at the earliest. And yet, the iPhone 17e may be on the mind of some budget-conscious shoppers on Tuesday, especially if the cost of buying an iPhone 17 goes up.

Philip Michaels looks at whether it's worth waiting for an iPhone 17e given that this device will likely have the same chipset found in the iPhone 17 models and it's in line for other improvements as well. There's nothing like getting the latest iPhone, of course, but saving money on a device that's just as capable be more appealing to some.

The iPhone 17 Air's prospects

The iPhone 17 Air will likely be the most talked about product following Tuesday's launch event. But its prospects for widespread adoption are more up in the air.

In his Bloomberg column this week, Mark Gurman compares the iPhone Air to its laptop counterpart, noting how the original MacBook Air may have had a thin design but offered little else to dissuade people from buying either a standard MacBook or a more capable MacBook Pro. The phone version of the Air could find itself in a similar boat, given that it's expected to be pricier than the iPhone 17 but lack the features of the Pro models.

"The new iPhone Air may be a cool piece of technology (or 'awe dropping,; to quote Apple’s event slogan), but it probably won’t be a blockbuster product," Gurman writes. "I think it will do better than the mini and Plus iPhones from recent years, but that’s a fairly low bar."

Pick your color

Invariably, the colors Apple uses for its latest iPhones generates a lot of attention, though it's not hard to figure out why — color is the first thing we see when we lay eyes on a phone, and picking the right color can reflect our personality and taste.

So what colors are you thinking about for your iPhone 17 update? Based on the iPhone 17 color rumors, here's what you'll have to choose from:

• iPhone 17: Black, White, Steel Gray, Green, Purple, Light Blue
• iPhone 17 Air: Black, White, Light Gold, Light Blue
• iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max: Black (though maybe not), White, Gray, Dark Blue, Orange

Last minute iPhone 17 Pro Max features

Apple's big event is mere hours away, and yet, the rumor mill hasn't stopped churning. A number of rumored upgrades dropped recently.

Alyse Stanley collected the 14 biggest rumors coming to the iPhone 17 Pro Max including improved cooling and chips and cameras.

Vision Pro 2

A refreshed Apple Vision Pro headset could be on the way. Rumors point to the mixed reality headset launching soon, either during Apple's iPhone 17 event or possibly in October when Apple usually reveals its next MacBooks.

The updated headset could be just a chip upgrade to the M5 processor, though we expect a bit more than that.

My colleague Jason England spoke with John Gearty, Founder and CEO of Pulsejet Studios, who played a role in the development of the Vision Pro and how the Vision Pro 2 could change.

Apple Watch SE 3 seems set to debut

The high-end Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to release tomorrow but another third-generation watch could also debut; the Apple Watch SE 3.

If the budget-friendly watch is just built on the architecture of the Apple Watch Series 9 or 10 then it will be a big upgrade but there is more coming as my colleague Jane McGuire explores the rumors surrounding the cheaper Apple smart watch.

5 biggest Apple Watch 11 and Ultra 3 upgrades we want to see

If the rumors are true we should see the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 during the Awe-dropping event tomorrow.

We don't know for sure what's coming but there are several updates that rumors have coalesced around that we're excited to see.

Here are the 5 Apple Watch upgrades we're most interested in:

• Satellite SOS messaging
• High blood pressure warnings
• Longer battery life (Series 11)
• A new display
• Apple Intelligence improvements

How the iPhone's slimming down

Here's a striking Bluesky post, comparing the thickness of the original iPhone from 2007 to the rumored size of the iPhone 17 Slim expected to debut this week. That's a change of 11.6mm for the first iPhone all the way down to 5.5mm or so.

Original iPhone v. iPhone 17 Air

— @basicappleguy.com (@basicappleguy.com.bsky.social) 2025-09-08T23:22:44.590Z

iPhone 16 Pro Max camera lessons learned

John Velasco has shot most of our photo face-offs, in which we compare hundreds of photos taken by each camera phone to one another. Plenty of those involved the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which has given John a good sense of what Apple's current top camera phone provides — and how the iPhone 17 Pro Max can improve on that.

A partial view of John's wishlist for the iPhone 17 Pro Max camera includes:

• Zero shutter lag in low-light settings
• Have the main camera shoot macro shots instead of the ultrawide lens
• Add a super-high resolution mode
• Allow for longer exposures when capturing the night sky
• Add a true manual mode
• More Apple Intelligence features for editing photos

Another reason to consider the iPhone 17

Maybe you were going to take a pass on the iPhone 17, with the hopes that reports of an improved iPhone 18 camera would pan out. We've still got a ways to go before the iPhone 18 sees the light of day, but one of the rumored camera features for next year's model might have to wait until 2027.

That'd be the idea that the standard iPhone would get a 48MP ultrawide camera much like the ultrawide shooter on the Pro models. That upgrade had been teased for the iPhone 18, but now analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says it's unlikely to happen until the iPhone 19.

In other words, the iPhone 17 may not see big camera upgrades tomorrow, but the iPhone 18 may not either in a year's time.

Revisiting iOS 26

Since Apple devoted so much time to its software updates during WWDC 2025, we wouldn't expect anything more than the briefest of recaps on Tuesday. Still, that doesn't mean you can't refresh your memory about the changes coming later this month via software updates, starting with iOS 26.

That's this year's iPhone software update, and it's highlighted by the same interface overhaul Apple is introducing to the iPad and Mac. There are some Apple Intelligence additions like expanded Visual Intelligence capabilites. You'll also appreciate call screening tools and improvements to Messages, Photos and More.

If you haven't tried out the iOS 26 public beta yet, our hands-on with the software update can tell you were to start. And you may want to start soon, as we're anticipating that Apple will give us a release date for the full version of iOS 26 at some point in or around the iPhone vent.

Displays in the spotlight

Certainly, the biggest anticipated change for the standard iPhone 17 model involves the refresh rate on its display — we're anticipating the screen to be able to reach 120Hz after spending years locked at 60Hz. But it's not the only iPhone 17 display enhancement expect. And that goes for the Pro models, too.

In fact, there are five likely changes to the screens on the iPhone 17 models that could materialize during the Apple event. Our preview tells you what to look for.

All the software updates

iOS 26 isn't the only software likely to get a release date at Apple's iPhone 17 event. The other updates previewed during WWDC 2025 should come out this month, too, as Apple unifies the look of its software from the Mac to its spatial computing headset.

Here's a round-up of our software previews:

• macOS 26 Tahoe
• iPadOS 26
• watchOS 26
• tvOS 26
• visionOS 26

8x zoom for iPhone 17 Pro?

One of the most tantalizing last-minute rumors for the iPhone 17 Pro is that it could feature the most powerful zoom yet in an iPhone. According to Korean carrier documentation (picked up by 9to5Mac), the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will offer 48MP telephoto lenses with up to 8x optical zoom.

This would be a nice jump over the 5x zoom found on the iPhone 16 Pro series. We don't know how big the digital zoom will be based on this leak, but we're hoping Apple is able to start to close the gap with the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Pixel 10 Pro, which both go up to 100x.

Vapor Chamber cooling is coming to the Pros

If you find that your iPhone Pro is overheating during intense workloads or gameplay, you're not alone. In fact, there's multiple threads on Apple's own forums and on Reddit dedicated to this issue.

The good news is that Apple is reportedly offering vapor chamber cooling on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Recently we reported on a leaked diagram of the iPhone 17 Pro vapor chamber. This rather large chamber should help dissipate heat and give users better sustained performance overall.

What's new with AirPods Pro 3?

Compared to the other products expected to launch at the Apple event, we haven't heard a ton about the rumored AirPods Pro 3. But we did recently learn some tidbits about a possible redesign.

It sounds like the AirPods Pro 3 case will get smaller, similar to the AirPods 4, and the pairing button is going away. Instead, you'll just tap on the case. You might also be able to control music playback from the case itself and possibly the volume, too.

We're hoping to see improved audio quality, better ANC and possibly new health features like the heart rate monitor borrowed from the recent Powerbeats Pro 2.

The big day is here

It's September 9, which means that Apple's Awe Dropping event day is finally here — even if it's still 10 hours away.

I'm Philip Michaels, the managing editor for mobile, and I'm handling our updates for the next few hours before my colleague Tom Pritchard returns.

Speaking of Tom, he wrote about the products that likely won't be appearing today, and a lot of his choices make sense. (If Apple's going to show off iPads and Macs this year, it's going to do so at a different event.) The only product Tom cites that I think could surprise us is a HomePod with Display — Apple clearly wants to release such a product, though Tom is probably right that the company would wait until the AI-updated version of Siri is ready next year.

Reverse charging on tap

The iPhone 17 Pro models could be picking up a feature that's long been available on Android phone but absent from Apple devices — the ability to reverse charge other devices. A leaker last month claimed the iPhone Pro models would pick up the feature, though few other details are available.

The timing of the feature is interesting, given that Google just dropped reverse charging from the Pixel 10 series, citing Qi2 wireless charging and the magnets it includes on its new phones. Apparently, Google figured it could have those magnets or reverse charging, but it couldn't have both.

Magnets have long been a part of the iPhone's wireless charging setup for MagSafe compatibility, and they're likely to remain for the iPhone 17 Pro models. So if reverse charging does appear, that means Apple figured out a way to include both reverse charging and MagSafe connectivity — which Tom Pritchard points out could be really embarrassing for Google.

iPhone 17 cheat sheet

As hard as it is for me, a guy who writes about phones, to believe, not everyone follows every iPhone rumor as it percolates throughout the months leading up to Apple's release date. Maybe, now that the Apple event is upon us, this is the first time you've paid any attention to what's happening with the new phones.

No matter: I've put together this quick-and-easy guide to the iPhone 17 rumors for all four likely models highlighting the biggest change for each phone as well as what's unlikely to change after today's event. And I've also got possible prices for each iPhone there, too.

Why the vapor chamber matters

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are expected to get a vapor cooling chamber to help improve performance — and maybe help the new phones from running into problems with overheating that have flared up in the past. And that's the feature Bloomberg's Mark Gurman cites in an X post ahead of the Awe Dropping event.

That's not the only thing the Bloomberg reporter will be focusing on. He also mentions the design changes coming to the back of the iPhone Pros, new colors, and the upgraded telephoto lens rumored for both models.

Apple Watch SE: The watch that doubles as a kid tracker

Back when my daughter started middle school, I wanted a way to be able to track down her whereabouts and text her when I needed to reach her, but I didn't think she needed a full-fledged smartphone right then. (And I sure didn't need the headache or the larger monthly cell phone bill.) Fortunately, the Apple Watch SE proved to be an adequate kid tracker — just buy the LTE-equipped version of Apple's entry-level watch, use the Family Setup feature and you've got a way to check in and communicate with your kid that costs a faction of what you'd pay for most high-end phones.

I mention this because the Apple Watch SE 3 is rumored to be making its debut today. And while the Apple Watch 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 are getting the hype, don't overlook this other device... and just how much stress it can take out of the life of parents.

AirPods Pro 3 wish list

Tammy Rogers oversees audio coverage for Tom's Guide. And she's identified 5 features that Apple's rumored AirPods Pro 3 needs to include to improve upon the last version and compete with the best headphones.

The wish list for the AirPods Pro 3 includes a design refresh, hi-res audio and improved battery life. Throw in better Android compatibility and improved Siri integration and the AirPods Pro 3 would prove to be a winner.

iOS 26 compatible devices

Sure, it'll be exciting when Apple announces a release date for iOS 26 — but not so much if you've got a device that won't run the new version of Apple's iPhone software. And if you've got a device that doesn't make the cut, maybe it's time to consider an upgrade to the new iPhones getting unveiled today.

For the sake of convenience, here's the list of iPhones that support iOS 26:

• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS and XS Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone SE 2020 and 2022
• iPhone 12 and 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone 13 and 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone 14 and 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone 15 and 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone 16 and 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 16e

And of course, any iPhone 17 model that comes out today will arrive with iOS 26 pre-installed.

Not every device that can upgrade to iOS 26 will support every feature. Spatial photo effects on the iPhone lock screen, for example, requires at least an iPhone 12 or later. And if you want to use any Apple Intelligence feature, you'll still need at least an iPhone 15 Pro.

All the rumored Apple Watch upgrades

We could see as many as three new Apple Watch models by the end of the day, and that's a lot of changes to keep track of. Fortunately, our Apple Watch 11 vs Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs Apple Watch SE 3 guide rounds up the biggest expected change for each of the three rumored wearables.

For the Apple Watch 11, the biggest updates look to be a brighter display, satellite messaging and blood pressure monitoring. Those latter two additions appear headed to the Apple Watch Ultra 3 also, and there could be a slight increase to the watch's size. There's also the possibility of a microLED display for the high-end watch.

Apple Watch SE 3 rumors are few and far between, but one possibility includes a switch to a plastic case, which could translate to brighter colors — and maybe even a lower starting price.

Predicting the iPhone 17 Pro's zoom capabilities

By now, it's well-established that the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are getting an upgrade to a 48MP telephoto lens — or at least, that's what the rumors claim. It would be quite a step-up, too, as the current iPhone 16 Pro models use a 12MP sensor.

What's less clear is what kind of zoom the new telephoto lens will offer and whether it will be a step forward or step back from the 5x optical zoom you can get with the iPhone 16 Pro.

One rumor predicts you'll trade zoom length for higher resolution, as it claims the iPhone 17 Pro will only support a 3.5x zoom. That's better than the 3x zoom offered on the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus but well short of the 5x zoom featured on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

A more encouraging rumor tips the iPhone 17 Pro models to take a step forward with zoom, as it will be able to suport up to 8x. No bonus points for guessing which rumor we hope proves to be correct.

Silicon-carbon batteries and the iPhone 17 Air

Riddle me this, phone fans: how can the iPhone 17 Air deliver decent battery life when its thin design would seem to preclude Apple from including a decent-sized battery inside the new phone? I'm guessing that's been a riddle Apple's engineering team has been trying to solve as well in the build-up to today's Apple event.

According to various reports, the answer could be a silicon-carbon battery, a new approach to power packs that would allow Apple to include a denser battery inside the iPhone 17 Air within the parameters of that device's thinner frame. We've got an explainer on just what a silicon-carbon battery is and how it could impact Apple's new phone design.

All the rumored announcements

What's the best way to prep for an Apple product event? By watching a Tom's Guide video summarizing all the possible announcements we're keeping an eye on today.

Apple Event TODAY! iPhone 17 Air, Apple Watch 11, AirPods Pro 3 Last-Minute Rumors - YouTube

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Will Homepod with Display make an appearance?

While it's been rumored that the HomePod with Display, Apple's Echo Show-like smart display, could be revealed at the Awe Dropping event, some of us are skeptical about this possibility. Especially since previous reports claimed that the screen would have a heavy emphasis on Apple's Siri voice assistant.

Siri is in a weird state of limbo right now, awaiting an AI-infused upgrade that Apple originally promised us for last year. The upgrade would make Siri more conversational and contextually aware, similar to other chatbots, and that could significantly improve voice controls. Unfortunately, that update is currently scheduled to arrive next spring, and without it we're not so sure Apple will want to release a smart display that isn't quite up to standard.

The big iPhone 17 Pro redesign

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are going to look a little different this year. Or that's what all the leaked images and cases seem to suggest. Rather than having a single square camera bump on the back, it appears that Apple is adding an extended camera bar to the back of the phones — extending the full width of the device.

From what we can see, the camera arrangement hasn't actually changed, but modules like flash and LiDAR have moved to the far side of the phone. What hasn't been clear is whether Apple will adopt a two-tone color scheme on the back of the phone; however, more recent leaks seem to indicate that this will be the case.

From the looks of things, that could include a metal camera bump, matching the rest of the phone's frame, and a glass panel below that'll presumably help facilitate wireless charging -- among other things.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 gets a safety and connectivity boost

One of the most exciting upgrades rumored to be hitting the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is satellite connectivity. Just like the iPhone, this upgrade will reportedly allow Apple Watch Ultra 3 users to send messages via satellites when there's no cellular coverage.

This wouldn't be the first smartwatch to have satellite support, since the Pixel Watch 4 beat Apple to the punch by a few weeks. But it does mean that anyone sporting the new Ultra Apple Watch will never be truly out of reach. Importantly, it will allow you to call for help whenever necessary, regardless of whether you have your phone with you.

Plus, if that wasn't enough, the Ultra 3 is expected to be available with 5G connectivity instead of 4G/LTE. This should be a boon to any non-satellite communications and make the watch an even more versatile tool.

There's a cost to iPhone 17 Air

The iPhone 17 Air may be one of the most exciting things at the Awe Dropping event, but its ultra-thin design is not going to come without compromise. In fact, there are a bunch of trade-offs to expect compared to the iPhone 17 Pro that may cause you to think twice about which phone you choose.

The biggest issue is that battery life is not looking great. Leaked battery capacities show the 17 Air's battery is 3,036 mAh, compared to the 17 Pro's 3,988 mAh. While software and hardware optimization can limit the impact, we are not expecting the battery lives to be that comparable.

Other trade-offs include the single camera lens, the lack of an anti-reflective display, and an A19 Pro chipset with one less GPU core. On their own, these things may not be so bad, but when you add them all together, it might be enough to make you pause before you hit the pre-order button.

AirPods Pro 3 only needs one thing to succeed

There are rumors that AirPods Pro 3 might not be a particularly great upgrade, and a more advanced version of Apple's earbuds may arrive next year. Despite this, Tom's Guide audio editor Tammy Rogers only wants one thing from AirPods Pro 3: Better sound quality.

The AirPods Pro 2 sound quite good, but they could definitely use some improvements. More so when you compare to some of Apple's biggest rivals like Sony and Bose, both of which offer significantly improved audio performance for a similar price tag. They may not have all the same fancy features as AirPods Pro, but all that flash is rather meaningless if the sound isn't up to standard.

M5 iPad Pro could be on the agenda too

It looks like the M5 iPad Pro could be revealed at the iPhone 17 launch event after all. Right after I went to all the trouble of declaring that there wouldn't be any new iPads on show later today. I'll admit, that is just a little bit embarrassing.

This news comes from an anonymous leaker (via 9to5Mac), the next-generation tablet will arrive alongside the likes of iPhone 17, Apple Watch 11, AirPods Pro 3 and more. The event is already looking pretty stacked, and now Apple may be squeezing in a whole other device onto the agenda.

Normally, iPads get their own launch events, but as my colleague Darragh Murphy notes, today is actually the 10th anniversary of the very first iPad Pro. That means it would be the perfect opportunity to celebrate that with a newer and more advanced model.

Vision Pro could come in a new color scheme

The Apple Vision Pro 2 is a long way off, based on what we've heard, but Apple could refresh the original spatial computing headset at the Awe Dropping event. According to Mark Gurman, we could see the Vision Pro arrive in a new Space Black color option.

This doesn't seem like such a big deal at first, but when you remember that the Vision Pro has only ever been available in silver and white, the addition of something new is going to appeal to some people. But whether it will be appealing enough to make them spend $3,500 on a face computer is another matter.

AirPods Pro 3 could actually be quite disappointing

As much as we want the AirPods Pro 3 to prioritize important features like sound quality and active noise cancellation, a last-minute rumor is dampening our excitement. According to Mark Gurman, Apple may not be making any significant audio enhancements. Instead, the focus will be on other features.

Gurman says that there will be a new heart rate monitor feature, as well as an improved design to offer a more comfortable fit. The charging case is also expected to undergo some changes in the process.

Considering our Audio Editor Tammy Rogers was only hoping for Apple to upgrade the sound quality and better match what's on offer from Apple's rivals, this is very disappointing news. While we hope Gurman is wrong about this, we won't know for sure until we get to test the new buds out for ourselves.

TechWoven, not FineWoven

If you remember the iPhone 15 launch, then you'll probably remember that the launch of FineWoven cases was an absolute disaster. While Apple was hyper-focussed on the material's sustainable credentials, it seems someone forgot to make sure it was actually durable enough to succeed. The material was so prone to scratches and damage that Apple discontinued all FineWoven accessories a year later.

This year, the company is apparently going to rectify its mistakes with the launch of TechWoven cases. These new cases are reportedly offering more protection from daily wear and tear, while offering "an elegant, minimalist look." All while maintaining the same sustainability credentials as FineWoven.

Color options are said to include black, brown, green, purple and blue. The cases themselves also reportedly have two holes to connect to Apple's new "crossbody" strap, which offers a magnetic lanyard to carry your phone around.

There are plenty more iPhone 17 cases on the way

TechWoven may be fixing a pretty big mistake, but that doesn't mean it'll be the only new case design we'll see at the iPhone 17 launch event.

In fact, we could be seeing a bunch of new cases, including a revived "Bumper Case" for the iPhone 17 Air. Like its the iPhone 4's Bumper Case the new model is expected to cover the ultra-thin phone's edges, while keeping the back exposed. Presumably, it is designed to help protect it from drops and other accidental damage.

Rumors also point to a brand new "Liquid Silicone" case material, designed to offer a matte finish, "soft-touch texture" and a variety of bright color options. Finally, there's the smart battery case for the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to help supplement the phone's relatively meager internal battery.

iPhone 17 Pro Max could replace Galaxy S25 Ultra as the best camera phone

Image 1 of 16

We test all the flagship phones to see which are the best camera phones around. Currently, the Galaxy S25 Ultra owns that title — and it's managed to stay on top for most of the year. However, that could change once the iPhone 17 Pro Max arrives.

In our 200 photo shootout between the iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Galaxy S25 Ultra, Apple actually came out on top purely on the performance of its cameras. You can see some of the snapshots above that we captured with their main cameras. Yet, the Galaxy S25 Ultra retained its status as the best camera phone due to the numerous shooting modes and AI-editing tools it offers.

For enthusiasts, these are just as valuable than just on the camera's performance. With the iPhone 17 Pro Max, it's expected to get an upgraded telephoto camera, gain a new dual-recording mode, and much more. And with potential new Apple Intelligence features, we're crossing our fingers that it extends into the camera department.

Could there be a big surprise?

Apple is looking to make waves at its "Awe Dropping" event. As such, the company might consider dropping an exciting surprise at the end of the show. While we're not sure what Apple's "One more thing" could be this year, we're hopeful that it's something interesting. It could be a rumored device or something completely out of left field. Or Apple could run through the expected devices and call it a day. One way or another, we'll find out in just a few hours.

Which one are you buying?

The choice is harder than ever with the rumored introduction of the iPhone 17 Air. There are essentially three completely different models with the Pro and Pro Max mainly differing in size. It won't be easy to choose, but that's exactly what we're asking you to do.

What won't be there?

We've spent a lot of time talking about what Apple will launch at the "Awe Dropping" event, but we haven't talked as much about what isn't expected to be there.

We want to ensure you're expectations are in the right place, so check out our rundown of the seven items we don't think we'll see at the event.

How to watch

Apple Event — September 9 - YouTube

Watch On

Apple is hosting the "Awe Dropping" event on its website and on its YouTube channel, which I've embedded above to make things even easier. YouTube lets you set reminders if you need to be notified directly when the event is about to start.

If you're an Apple TV owner or already have one of the best iPhones with the Apple TV app installed, you can watch it there, too.

We have arrived!

We are at Apple right now getting ready for the gigantic event where the iPhone 17 is expected to take center stage.

iPhone release date speculation

There's no more guesswork on when the iPhone 17 is getting announced. That's today, clearly. But when will you actually be able to walk into an Apple Store and walk out with a new iPhone in hand?

Apple has some priors here. Typically, when the launch event is held on a Tuesday, 10 days or so pass before sales begin in earnest. (Pre-orders are another matter — those either begin right away or on the Friday right after the launch event.) That would put the iPhone 17 official release date on Friday, September 19 if Apple sticks to its usual pattern.

Kate Kozuch breaks down the timing for you in the above TikTok video from Apple Park.

iPhone 17 wish list

It's me, Philip Michaels, and I'm back to take you the rest of the way through today's Apple event and the iPhone 17 reveal. And speaking of Apple's new phones, my colleague John Velasco is on the ground in Cupertino to get his hands on the iPhones as soon as they're announced.

What's John looking forward to? He put together an iPhone 17 wish list before departing for Apple Park based on his time with the iPhone 16. John's looking for a boost to the display's refresh rate, A19 performance improvements and that upgraded front camera, among other enhancements.

Tim Cook checks in

Tim Cook isn't so busy with preparations for today's Apple event that he can't take a moment to tweet about it.

Woz on the scene

If you were wondering what was on the to-do list of Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak for today, it's "attend the launch event at Apple Park."

Apple Watch preview

We're expecting three Apple Watch announcements today, with new versions of the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Ultra joining the standard Apple Watch 11 event. Kate Kozuch tells you what to expect on the smartwatch front.

What's in a name?

When rumors of a thin iPhone first started circulating, the device was known as the iPhone 17 Slim, though that quickly changed to iPhone 17 Air in subsequent rumors. Now, posts on Weibo are claiming the "17" won't even be part of the name when Apple releases the phone in about an hour.

Apple's desire to drop the numbers from its phone name has long-been rumored. Is this the year it finally happens and is the iPhone 17 Air... excuse me... the iPhone Air the first phone to do it?

iPhone preview

Mark Spoonauer is on hand at the Apple event to give you an update on what to look for — particularly when it comes to the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro announcements.

Upgrade or not?

Later today, anyone watching the iPhone 17 event is going to have to decide whether the new models merit an upgrade. My colleague Mike Prospero has already made that call, and it's going to be a no from him.

The problem isn't any of the hardware Apple's rumored to be upgrading. Rather, Mike is underwhelmed by Apple's AI editing tools, especially in light of what Android phones can do. And our testing backs that up: In our AI phone face-off earlier this year, Google won big in the photo-editing tests while Apple finished well behind the competition for image generation. Nothing we're going to see today is likely to change that, until Apple starts improving its Apple Intelligence suite of AI tools.

Inside the Steve Jobs Theater

Mark Spoonauer and the rest of the crew are inside the lobby of the Steve Jobs Theater where the wait continues for the Apple event to begin.

A big design change

If renders are to be believed, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are going to look very different from their predecessors with a new camera array that stretches across the top side of the phone. (Think Google's camera bar, but bigger somehow.)

My colleague Josh Render was not a fan of the look when it first leaked out. But on the day of the Apple launch, he's fully on board.

Apple Vision Pro sighting

Good news for Apple — at least one person has bought an Apple Vision Pro and is willing to wear the $3,499 headset in public. But the question is, will this guy upgrade to the new Space Black color option that's supposed to debut today?

Packed house

Say what you will about the necessity of tech launch events, but Apple can still pack them in, as you can see from the mass of people inside the Steve Jobs Theater.

Inside view

The Tom's Guide crew is now inside the theater itself, as we're less than 20 minutes from the start of the "Awe Dropping" event. Note the thematic Siri-like Apple logo.

Meanwhile, at Samsung HQ...

Never let your rival enjoy all of the spotlight. That might explain today's report out of Samsung, where mobile chief TM Roh has confirmed that Samsung's tri-fold device is still on track for a launch at some point this year. Samsung just announced the Galaxy S25 FE last week.

I saw the TV glow

Watch the Apple Event from your Apple TV or the YouTube live feed, and the image above is an approximation of what you'd see. Either Apple has some Siri announcements, or there's going to be a new infrared iPhone color.

Waiting for kickoff

Flash back to WWDC 2025, when Apple's event began with an F1 promo. Any guesses as to what Apple TV Plus property they'll promote this time?

And we're underway

The Apple event begins with a Steve Jobs quote about design -- how it just works — and a lot of circular imagery (buttons, icons, etc.) That's followed by squares and rectangles, heart shapes, ovals... basically, the message here is how Apple employs design in the products you use.

"Design is at the core of everything we do," Tim Cook says.

AirPods first

We're going to start with new AirPods — specifically AirPods Pro 3.

Cook promises "breakthrough audio performance" and new capabilities.

AirPods Pro 3 details

The new AirPods feature improved spatial audio with a wider sound stage. Active noise cancellation is aided by new foam eartips — Apple says it's twice as good as the previous generation.

The earbuds also get live translation features using Apple Intelligence. You trigger it with a new gesture and ANC lowers the voice of who's speaking so that you can hear the translation. The iPhone displays your words in the language of the person you're speaking with.

Physical changes

Apple is working on the AirPods fit, too. The AirPods Pro 3 are optimized with a new design shaped to fit in the ear canal. There are five different tips you can swap out. Durability is improved with higher sweat and water resistance (IP57).

Health features

The AirPods Pro 3 gain heart-rate sensing technology. There are sensors in the earbuds themselves. That lets you track workouts from your earbuds when connected to your iPhone. And the AirPods support the Workout Buddy feature that Apple is introducing with its updated software.

Battery life

The AirPods Pro 3 will offer 8 hours of battery life on a single-charge. That's up from 6 hours. The hearing aid feature can last for 10 hours.

AirPods Pro 3 will cost $249, the same price as before. Pre-orders start today, and the earbuds go on sale September 19.

Apple Watch updates

And now it's time to meet the new Apple Watch models after a video of people talking about how the smartwatch has improved their health. (That's an annual feature of these product launches.)

"Each year, we make Apple Watch even more essential," Tim Cook says.

Apple Watch 11

The display of the Apple Watch 11 is 2x more scratch resistant than the Apple Watch 10. And the new model has 5G connectivity built-in; it's more power-efficient to use less battery when connected to cellular.

As for health features, you're getting new sleep and heart health capabilities.

Blood pressure monitoring

Apple Watch 11 taps into the optical heart sensor to alert you if it identifies patterns of hypertension, i.e. high blood pressure. That requires FDA clearance, but Apple expects it soon.

New sleep features

Apple is adding a sleep score so that you can act upon all that data your watch collects as you sleep. You'll be able to track your sleep score over time on your phone and in the Sleep app in the watch.

Battery life improvements

Finally, the Apple Watch 11 will last longer — 24 hours instead of 18 on previous models.

Apple Watch SE 3

The new entry-level SE model has a always-on display and improved S10 processor. Temperature sensing is now supported, and there's 5G connectivity on the cellular model. It gets the sleep score feature, plus sleep apnea tracking. Battery life is still 18 hours, but the watch now supports fast charging — 15 minutes of charing can add 8 hours of normal use.

New Apple Watch Ultra

Apple Watch Ultra 3 gets a new display — the largest ever on an Apple Watch. The screen refreshes faster in always-on mode. And there is 5G connectivity just like on the other watches.

But the Ultra will feature satellite connectivity, matching a feature Google recently introduced for its Pixel Watches. (Works with Messages and Find My).

Battery life is 42 hours now.

Apple Watch lineup

Prices seem to be staying the same. Apple Watch SE 3 starts at $249, Apple Watch 11 is $399, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 costs $799. Those are the prices on the Wi-Fi models.

Pre-orders start today, the watches go on sale September 19.

Here comes the iPhone

Tim Cook confirms we're getting four new iPhone models, and we're starting things off with the iPhone 17.

The basic model promises a more durable design with five colors (lavender and sage are my favorites). As expected, you get a ProMotion display with an adaptive refresh rate — 120Hz is the maximum and the refresh rate drops to 1Hz in always-on mode.

Looks like the display is now 6.3 inches.

Ceramic Shield and A19

The updated Ceramic Shield feature offers 3x scratch resistance, and Apple has worked to cut down on the glare of its display.

Thankfully, the iPhone 17 is getting an A19 chipset. (So much for those rumors, the entry-level phone would stick with the A18 system on chip.) A19 has a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU — "a big step up for graphics-intensive tasks," Apple says.

Battery details

As you'd imagine the iPhone 17 supports Apple Intelligence, so you get iOS 26 features including improved Visual Intelligence and translation tools.

Faster charging gets you 8 hours of video playback after 10 minutes of charging. The ProMotion display should help with battery life, too.

Camera details

You get a 48MP ultrawide camera on the iPhone 17 — that's a surprise. That goes with the 48MP main camera which continues to offer a 2x optical quality zoom — not an actual zoom mind you.

The front camera is upgrade. It's now called a Center Stage camera, and it has a wider field of view. A square sensor allows for different compositions — you don't have to rotate your iPhone to take a landscape selfie.

256GB storage

Apple didn't make a big deal of this, but it looks like the iPhone 17 starts with 256GB of storage, instead of the skimpy 128GB found on the iPhne 16.

iPhone Air

The iPhone Air is 5.6mm thin with a 6.5-inch Pro Motion display. Ceramic Shield is on both the front and back, making the back of the phone 4x more resistant to cracks.

More Air details

The phone uses 80% recycled titanium and comes in four colors — black, white, gold and blue. (That's a sky blue color.)

A19 Pro

The iPhone Air will have an A19 Pro chipset, with a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU featuring the second generation of Apple's Dynamic Caching architecture. Apple says it's the fastest mobile chip.

There are neural improvements, too, with neural accelerators built into the chipset. "MacBook-levels of compute," Apple says.

Apple N1 chip and C1X modem

The Air gets an N1 chip for improved connectivity, and there's an updated version of Apple's modem. The C1X is 2 times faster than the C1 modem that debuted with the iPhone 16e. That should make the iPhone Air the most power-efficient iPhone ever, Apple says.

Just one camera

You're getting a single 48MP Fusion camera on the iPhone Air, but it can approximate a 2x telephoto at 12MP. There are custom lenses that let you frame your shot in four different ways. The Air also adopts the Center Stage camera for its front shooter.

Dual capture comes to the iPhone Air, letting you capture video with the front and rear cameras simultaneously.

eSIM and battery

The iPhone Air uses an eSIM, not a physical SIM card. And that's true no matter what country you buy the phone in. That's a space-saving move.

Apple says the phone will have all-day battery life even with the thin design. There are power management features plus the more efficient components. Accessories extend the battery life even further.

iPhone 17 Pro

Goodbye, titanium. That's an iPhone Air feature now. The iPhone 17 Pro features an aluminum frame. Those leaked CAD drawings showing a redesigned camera array also proved accurate.

More on design

There's more to the new iPhone 17 Pro look than aesthetics. Apple says it made the changes it did to manage the temperature of the device. Helping out in that regard is a new vapor chamber to help dissipate heat and deliver top thermal performance.

Colors are silver, blue and orange, so reports of no black iPhone Pro option are correct.

A19 Pro in the iPhone 17 Pro

Remember that A19 Pro chipset from the iPhone Air? It's in the iPhone 17 Pro, too.

By the way, the Pro features a unibody design with Ceramic Shield on the back of the phone for improved durability.

There's more room for the battery, particularly on the eSIM models. In fact, the iPhone 17 Pro Max should provide the longest battery life ever in an iPhone.

iPhone 17 Pro camera details

Center Stage camera comes to the front of the iPhone 17 Pro, as you might imagine. And the rear cameras are all 48MP sensors — they're all Fusion cameras to for greater details.

The telephoto lens supports both 4x and 8x optical zooms. The former is designed for portrait shots and nature photography. The 8x is for extreme zooms with strong depth of field effects.

Pro video features

ProRes RAW capture comes to the iPhone 17 Pro. It's an industry-leading codec providing high levels of control and quality over video footage. Genlock support is part of the new Pro models too.

For what it's worth, Apple says the launch video we're all enjoying has been shot with an iPhone 17 Pro.

TechWoven and Clear cases

Apple has some new cases for its phones. And there's a cross-body strap that works with the Pro models as well as the iPhone Air.

iPhone 17 details

While Apple shows an iPhone 17 Pro video, let's go back to the iPhone 17 with our report on what's new with the entry-level model.

iPhone 17 pricing

Some good news, bad news on the iPhone 17 pricing. The base model still starts at $799 — that's great news considering the extra storage.

The iPhone 17 Pro now costs $1,099 — a $100 price hike from the iPhone 16 Pro, though the new phone comes with 256GB of storage, too. So technically, it costs the same as the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199. That's the same as its predecessor.

Finally, the iPhone Air debuts at $999. That's $100 more than the iPhone 16 Plus it replaces in the lineup, but at least it's under $1,000.

Preorders start Friday, and the phones go on sale September 19.

And that's a wrap

And with that, Tim Cook signs off, having speed-walked through the introduction of eight new products — four phones, three watches and the AirPods update.

Apple may be done talking about its new offerings, but we're not. Keep refreshing the live blog for the latest from our crew in Cupertino as they go hands on with the new products.

More on the iPhone Air

The iPhone Air is clearly the biggest news out of a day with a lot of product announcements, and now that the flurry of details has died down, you can read our report on the iPhone Air's features and specs.

Apple Watch changes

The highlight of the Apple Watch news today is clearly the health features coming to the Apple Watch 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. Those include blood pressure monitoring and a new sleep score tool. (That latter feature is also going to be available for the Apple Watch SE 3.)

But there are some hardware changes to take note of, and you can read all about those in our reports on what's new with the Apple Watch 11 and the latest changes coming to the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

What's new with AirPods Pro 3

There's a surprising number of changes in the AirPods Pro 3, from the audio features to the look of the earbuds. And don't forget the new translation and fitness tracking capabilities as well.

Tammy Rogers has all the AirPods Pro 3 details.

iPhone 17 pre-order info

The iPhone 17 models introduced today don't go on sale until September 19, with preorders starting this Friday. But you don't have to wait until then to start sizing up iPhone 17 savings.

Deals editor Louis Ramirez has put together an iPhone 17 preorder guide, and there's already offers in there from all the major U.S. carriers, plus Apple, which is offering trade-in discounts on the new phones.

Hands on with the iPhone Air

Mark Spoonauer is in Cupertino for today's event, which gave him the chance to get his hands on the iPhone Air and spend a little time checking out Apple's newest iPhone.

In his iPhone Air hands on, Mark talks about the phone's specs and what it's like holding such a thin-and-light device.

iPhone Air: Video hands-on

You can read about Mark Spoonauer's thoughts on the iPhone Air. Or you can watch our iPhone Air video hands-on to see Apple's new phone in action.

iPhone Air HANDS ON! - YouTube

Watch On

You could also do both. One doesn't preclude the other.

Hands-on with the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max

Apple's latest Pro models didn't exactly surprise — the biggest changes in both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max were predicted in advance of today's event. Still, the improved cameras, better processor and more durable design add up to a potentially improved experience for Apple's premium handsets.

John Velasco has more in an iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max first look.

Apple Watch 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3: Video hands-on

Kate Kozuch checks in from Apple Park with a closer look at two of the three new Apple Watches — the Apple Watch 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 — in this video hands-on.

Apple Watch Series 11 + Apple Watch Ultra 3 Hands On - YouTube

Watch On

Up close with the iPhone 17 Pro phones

In addition to our iPhone 17 Pro hands-on, here's a video going over what's new with the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

iPhone 17 Pro Max HANDS ON: Finally! - YouTube

Watch On

Apple Watch 11 hands-on review

Our Apple Watch Series 11 hands-on review is live, and we're pretty surprised. No, I'm not talking about the hypertension alerts (for high blood pressure) or new sleep score — though those are both welcome additions. Kate Kozuch is most impressed with the Apple Watch 11's 24 hours of rated battery life, which is a big jump up from the 18 hours on previous Apple Watches. Check out her impressions so far.

Some iPhone 17 buying advice

Welcome to the day after the iPhone 17 launch event! Chances are you're now weighing up if upgrading to the latest iPhone once pre-orders open on Friday is the best decision for you. And we'd like to help you out.

In our iPhone 17 reasons to buy and skip story, we go over the key reasons why you should (and should not) go for the standard iPhone 17 model. We're happy to report there are a number of reasons in the pro-upgrade column, but we'll keep things balanced so you can make the smartest choice for your needs.

Our first look at the AirPods Pro 3

Want to know our first impressions of the new flagship AirPods? You can find out in our AirPods Pro 3 hands-on.

We like the sound of Apple's headline upgrades such as better notice cancellation, a higher water resistance rating, longer battery life and the addition of heart rate monitoring and Live Translation support. We're a little concerned what using those advanced features may do for the battery consumption, but nonetheless impressed by how significant these changes are.

For and against the Apple Watch 11

The latest iteration of the Apple Watch has a number of upgrades, but there are still a few reasons why you may want to avoid upgrading just yet.

That's what our reasons to buy and skip Apple Watch 11 article is here to explain. Better battery, hypertension alerts and a new sleep score are big reasons to go for the new smartwatch, but there's a lot that hasn't changed from earlier generations.

The new iPhone chip deserves a MacBook debut

Apple described the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro's new A19 Pro chip as a MacBook-grade chipset in a phone. That sounds great, but maybe Apple should consider that from a different angle.

A cheaper MacBook using an iPhone chip has been rumored for some time already, so TG's Jason England is advocating for Apple to make this a reality with the A19 Pro. MacBooks are fantastic laptops but can be more expensive and more powerful than most people need, so a souped-up phone chip could help bring balance to Apple's laptop portfolio.

The AirPods 3 upgrades that really matter

Our audio editor Tammy Rogers cares about good earbuds, and she's got some specific reasons why she will be buying the AirPods Pro 3.

The AI-powered translation and heart rate monitoring features are neat, but not the main focus in Tammy's case. Instead, she focuses on the improved audio quality, more powerful active noise cancelling, longer battery life and the more comfortable fit thanks to Apple shipping the buds with five different pairs of eartips

Which iPhone 17 should you get?

This year's iPhone line-up is the most diverse Apple's yet produced, with four distinct models. Assuming you want one of the premium options, you can check out our iPhone Air vs. iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 17 Pro Max comparison.

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are identical other than price, size, battery capacity and the 2TB storage option that's exclusive to the Pro Max. The difference between these and the iPhone Air is much larger, as the iPhone Air cuts out a lot of features to allow for its amazingly thin design.

Apple Watch pre-orders

Like the iPhone 17 series, the latest Apple Watches don't go on sale until September 19. But while preorders for the phones don't begin until this Friday, you can already preorder the Apple Watch 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3.

To help you find the best offer, our deals team put together an Apple Watch 11 preorder guide that also lists deals for the Apple Watch 11 and Apple Watch SE 3. Your best bet right now comes from Apple, which is offering up to $335 in credit when you trade-in an eligible device.

Apple Watch 11: from $399 @ Apple
Apple's latest flagship smartwatch, the Apple Watch 11 is available for preorder now and will ship on September 19. It's available in 42mm and 46mm sizes for $399 and $429, respectively. There are also GPS/Cellular models from $499. You can get up to a $335 credit when you trade-in an eligible device.

View Deal

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max

The Pro Max model sits at the top of the iPhone pecking order, even after the iPhone Air's debut. And the iPhone 17 Pro Max introduces a number of changes, from a new look to chipset and camera improvements.

But just how different is the iPhone 17 Pro Max from its predecessor? Our iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max comparison takes a look.

Ordering your AirPods Pro 3

When mulling over which products announced at the Awe Dropping event you're going to buy, don't overlook the AirPods Pro 3. In addition to audio improvements, the earbuds also pick up translation and fitness tracking features, making them an attractive upgrade.

We've got preorder information on the AirPods Pro 3 since you can place your orders now ahead of the September 19 launch. There's not a lot of deals out there on the $249 earbuds, though if you buy directly from Apple, you can get three months of Apple Music as part of your purchase.

Why the Air's a big deal

Sure, the iPhone Air is eye-catching. But is it all that different from what the other iPhones released this week have to offer? Besides its thin design, the iPhone Air seems like just another iPhone.

But the thinness could be the point, according to the analysts we talked to. Here's Dave LeClair on how the iPhone Air sets the stage for the foldable phone Apple could release as soon as next year.

iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro

A new design, a better chipset, a higher-resolution zoom lens — the iPhone 17 Pro certainly boasts a lot of changes over its predecessor. And our iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro comparison details just how many changes you can expect.

Hands-on with the iPhone 17

We continue to look at all the new iPhones with an iPhone 17 hands-on from John Velasco. Though his full review is coming, John came away very impressed with how many improvements Apple packed into the new phone without increasing the price tag from $799.

Leaked A19 benchmarks

The first iPhone 17 Pro benchmarks are in — well, not ours, actually, and not anything confirmed. But benchmark scores for an iPhone 17 Pro have shown up in the Geekbench 6 database, and they point to a very impressive performance for Apple's A19 Pro silicon.

Video: AirPods Pro 3

If you're wondering what's changed with Apple's latest earbuds, Kate Kozuch has a look at the AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2.

AirPods Pro 3 vs Pro 2: Should You Upgrade? - YouTube

Watch On

Pro vs. Pro Max

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is essentially just a bigger version of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, right? Yes… but there are a few more differences to know about, especially now that's there's just a $100 price difference between the two Pros after the quasi-price hike to the iPhone 17 Pro.

Richard Priday breaks down the iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 17 Pro Max differences.

The unbendable Air

At Apple's invitation, Mark Spoonauer attempted to bend an iPhone Air — perhaps proving Apple's point that the phone may be thin, but it's also durable.

Mark's not in the habit of randomly trying to snap phones in two. Rather this feat of iPhone strength came during the middle of his interview with two Apple executives about the new iPhones. See what head of worldwide marketing Greg Joswiak and senior vice president for hardware engineering John Ternus have to say about the Air, the iPhone 17 Pro design and a few other apects of the new phones.

Which iPhone are you going to pick?

iPhone preorders begin on Friday ahead of the September 19 release date for all the new handsets that debuted this week. Which one are you going to get?

John Velasco got the chance to go hands-on with all four iPhones this week in Cupertino, even writing up those experiences for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models. After all that, here's the one model he'd get above all.