Apple’s highly anticipated Glowtime event is fast approaching, fueling widespread speculation and excitement. With the iPhone 16 and other new products on the horizon, tech enthusiasts are eager to learn what standout features are in store.
Scheduled for September 9 at 7:00 p.m. European time, Apple will host a special event to unveil its latest innovations. While the iPhone 16 series is expected to be the centerpiece, the company will also introduce significant updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. In addition, Apple is poised to showcase its new artificial intelligence platform, Apple Intelligence, which includes an upgraded Siri digital assistant.
Renowned tech journalist Mark Gurman has noted that the event’s theme, Glowtime, hints at Siri’s enhanced interface as part of Apple’s AI advancements.
As in previous years, Apple will launch four iPhone models: the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. Design-wise, the Pro models will see the most significant changes, while the standard models will remain more consistent with prior versions. One of the most noticeable upgrades is the screen size—the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature larger 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch displays, respectively, up from the 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch displays of the previous generation. Additionally, the bezels will be about one-third thinner, offering a sleeker and more refined look overall.
Notably, according to Mark Gurman, the Pro versions of both iPhone 16 models will introduce a dedicated capacitive Capture Button on the right side of the device, designed for taking photos and videos. Gurman described this feature as the biggest selling point of the new iPhones besides artificial intelligence. Other media outlets have echoed this sentiment, suggesting that consumers may gravitate toward the practical photo-taking functionality over AI, which remains in its early stages.
The Capture Button operates similarly to the shutter button on a DSLR camera: a gentle press focuses the camera, while a firmer press captures the image. Additionally, swiping the button allows users to switch between photo and video modes, as well as zoom in and out.
Aside from the increased size and the new photo button, the iPhone 16 Pro models will largely retain the exterior design of the iPhone 15 Pro series. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will maintain the same 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screen sizes as their predecessors, continuing to feature aluminum casings.
One notable design change for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus is the shift from the diagonal camera layout of the iPhone 15 to a vertical arrangement. The new pill-shaped, raised camera design replaces the previous rectangular format, allowing the non-Pro models to support spatial video recording. This enables users to view 3D content with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Additionally, the new non-Pro models will come equipped with the Action Button, a feature previously exclusive to Pro models. This button offers customizable settings and shortcut commands, enabling users to take screenshots, activate translation features, and more.
Apple continues its tradition of introducing new color options for its flagship iPhone each year, catering to the diverse preferences of its global user base. For the iPhone 16 lineup, some adjustments have been made compared to the previous generation.
According to the latest reports, the iPhone 16 Pro models will be available in four colors: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and a new Gold Titanium, replacing last year’s Blue Titanium. Some sources refer to the new color as Desert Titanium or Bronze Titanium. Early previews suggested a brownish hue, but more recent insights indicate the color leans more toward bronze. Tech journalist Mark Gurman weighed in, stating on social media that the gold color looks impressive and far better than early renders.
The non-Pro versions will come in five color options: blue, pink, black, green, and white, with white replacing yellow from the iPhone 15 lineup. Some reports speculate that the introduction of white color could drive iPhone 16 sales in China. Additionally, the color palette for this year’s models is expected to be more saturated than the muted tones of the iPhone 15 series.
Beyond aesthetics, the iPhone 16 series promises an enhanced user experience with improved processor performance, optimized screen displays, and upgraded camera features. The Pro series, in particular, will offer a high refresh rate display and advanced camera capabilities, elevating the gaming, video, and photography experience.
The iPhone 16 series will feature 8GB of RAM across all models, a first for Apple, helping to power AI-driven features like Apple Intelligence. In terms of processing power, the standard iPhone 16 models will be equipped with the A18 chip, while the Pro models will boast the more advanced A18 Pro chip.
Camera enhancements are another major highlight. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will upgrade their ultra-wide-angle cameras from 12 megapixels to 48 megapixels, significantly improving low-light performance, detail, and color accuracy. This higher resolution will also offer greater flexibility for post-processing and support 4K spatial video recording. Additionally, both Pro models will feature at least 5x optical zoom, allowing for more versatile photography.
As for display technology, while the standard iPhone 16 models will retain a 60Hz refresh rate, the Pro series will offer a 120Hz OLED screen, providing smoother visuals for gaming and content consumption.
The event is also expected to showcase other key products, including the AirPods 4 and the next-generation Apple Watch lineup. The Apple Watch 10 is anticipated to introduce significant size changes, offering 45mm and 49mm options, up from the previous 41mm and 45mm sizes. Some sources have hinted at the inclusion of health features like sleep apnea and hypertension detection, though it remains uncertain whether these will be available at launch.
Source: X, Apple
