This week, Apple showcased its latest product lineup during the much-anticipated Awe Dropping keynote in Cupertino. The hour-long event introduced a remarkable array of new devices, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3. ZDNET was present to cover the announcements, and we've compiled a comprehensive summary of the key highlights from the event, ensuring you stay updated on all the latest news.
Apple kicked off the event with the introduction of the iPhone 17 series. The standard model is priced at $799 and features a stunning 120Hz ProMotion display, an upgraded front-facing camera for versatile recording, and the powerful A19 chipset. The star of the show, however, was the iPhone Air, priced at $999, which is touted as Apple's thinnest and lightest phone to date. It operates on the more robust A19 Pro chip and features a single camera sensor for a sleek design.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models, starting at $1,099 and $1,199 respectively, received a redesigned back cover that includes a larger camera visor housing an enhanced telephoto sensor. A new vapor chamber cooling system is also integrated, ensuring optimal performance and extended battery life.
Next, Apple highlighted the Apple Watch Series 11, which will retail for $399. This smartwatch is designed to be the slimmest and most comfortable version yet, featuring 5G connectivity, new watch faces, and a highly scratch-resistant ceramic design. The Apple Watch Ultra 3, priced at $799, boasts a brighter and wider OLED display with thinner bezels, allowing for a more immersive viewing experience. Notably, it will be the first Apple Watch to offer satellite connectivity for emergency messaging and location tracking, alongside an impressive battery life of up to 42 hours.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is another exciting addition, starting at $249. This third-generation model is powered by the new S10 chip, features an always-on display, and introduces fast charging capabilities, allowing users to gain up to eight hours of battery life with just a 15-minute charge.
The event also marked the launch of the AirPods Pro 3, priced at $249. These earbuds feature multi-port acoustic architecture, significantly improving sound quality for both music and calls. With twice the active noise cancellation (ANC) of previous models, users can expect a battery life of up to eight hours with ANC activated—an impressive four-hour increase. The new AirPods will support Live Translation powered by Apple Intelligence and come with a variety of ear tips in five sizes for a customized fit.
For those eager to pre-order, Apple's new devices, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch 11, and AirPods Pro 3, will be available for pre-order starting this week.
Following the keynote, iPhone 17 cases have begun arriving at customers' doorsteps, with reports indicating early deliveries for those who pre-ordered. The innovative Dual Capture mode on the iPhone 17 series allows users to record simultaneously with both the rear and front cameras, a feature particularly useful for capturing live events.
Interestingly, the new AirPods Pro 3 will be shipped without a charging cable, requiring users to utilize existing USB-C cables or wireless chargers. This decision has sparked discussions about the necessity of including accessories, especially for those upgrading from the original AirPods Pro.
Carrier deals for the new iPhones are already surfacing, with aggressive promotions, including significant trade-in discounts. As Apple continues to innovate and expand its product offerings, the excitement surrounding the iPhone 17 series and other devices is palpable.
With the launch of the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3, Apple has once again set a high bar for technological innovation. Be sure to stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as we continue to cover the latest from Apple.
