Last week's Apple event brought an exciting array of product announcements that have generated a flurry of reviews this week. Our team dedicated significant time to thoroughly assess the new iPhone 17 family, including the ultra-thin iPhone Air. Additionally, we evaluated the AirPods Pro 3 and the Apple Watch Series 11, which were unveiled during the event. Beyond Apple products, our reviews also include an in-depth look at a premium Chromebook and the latest Tamagotchi device. Read on to catch up on everything you might have missed over the last few weeks.
Apple has replaced the iPhone 16 Plus with the incredibly sleek iPhone Air, a device that proves to be more than just a superficial upgrade. As noted by senior reviews writer Sam Rutherford, the iPhone Air embraces a design philosophy that prioritizes sleekness without significantly compromising battery life. While Apple may not officially confirm it yet, there are strong indications that this model will serve as a template for an upcoming foldable iPhone, he concluded.
Over the years, Apple's approach of transferring features from the Pro line to the standard iPhone has become predictable. This time, however, the iPhone 17 breaks the mold with the introduction of a 120Hz display, elevating the user experience significantly. The improvements don’t stop there; users will benefit from upgraded camera capabilities as well. If you're transitioning from the iPhone 16, the enhanced display and camera upgrades make a compelling case for an upgrade, even for those who typically refrain from purchasing a new phone every year.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models have continually maintained a camera advantage over their standard counterpart, and this trend continues. However, this year's models also boast improved thermal management, a sturdy aluminum unibody case, and an optional 6.9-inch display. Managing editor Cherlynn Low reflects on how this year’s lineup challenges the traditional perception of a Pro phone, questioning whether it should prioritize luxury aesthetics or rugged durability.
If Apple had merely enhanced the active noise cancellation (ANC) and sound quality of the AirPods Pro 3, it would have been a solid upgrade. However, the company has gone above and beyond by introducing features like Live Translation and heart-rate tracking. What’s even more exciting is the strong possibility that Apple will continue to innovate with this third-generation model. Given Apple’s history, it seems likely that they will further leverage the capabilities of the H2 chip, unlocking even more features for the AirPods Pro 3.
The Apple Watch Series 11 solidifies its position as the best smartwatch for iPhone users with significant upgrades in design, battery life, and health monitoring features. However, it might not be the ideal choice for everyone. The Watch SE 3 offers a range of essential health and fitness features, including wrist temperature monitoring, sleep score, emergency SOS, and fall detection, making it an attractive alternative at a more accessible price point, as noted by Cherlynn.
Among the myriad of Chromebooks available, the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 stands out for its performance, longevity, and versatility. However, its price point—around $700—places it at the higher end of the spectrum for Chromebooks, as deputy editor Nathan Ingraham points out. While the powerful chip and impressive battery life might justify the expense for some users, it's worth noting that Acer also offers a competitive alternative with its standard Chromebook Plus 514 launched earlier this summer.
In addition to the Apple lineup, the latest Tamagotchi device also deserves attention. As a beloved nostalgic toy, this new iteration promises to capture the hearts of both long-time fans and new users alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other exciting tech releases.
