Apple’s much-anticipated annual iPhone event is set to take place around September 10th, where we’ll likely see the unveiling of the iPhone 16, new AirPods, updated Apple Watch models, and potentially additional surprises. However, with the arrival of these new products, some older ones are expected to be phased out.
iPhone 15 Pro & iPhone 15 Pro Max
Since the launch of the iPhone XS and XR in 2018, Apple has followed a pattern of discontinuing flagship iPhones just a year after their release. This strategy seems to be driven by the fact that newer models often offer only incremental improvements over their predecessors, prompting Apple to encourage purchases of their more budget-friendly iPhone options. Following this trend, we can anticipate that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the first to feature a titanium frame, will likely be retired next month.
Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro’s 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch screen sizes may not make a return in the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro models, which are rumored to sport larger displays. The distinctive Blue Titanium color of the iPhone 15 Pro may also be discontinued with the launch of the new lineup.
iPhone 14 Plus
The iPhone 14 Plus was introduced as Apple’s first large-screen entry-level iPhone, designed to replace the underperforming iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini. It featured a 6.7-inch display and extended battery life similar to the Pro Max models but at a lower cost. This model marked the return of the “Plus” branding, last seen with the 2017 iPhone 8 Plus.
Given that Apple discontinued the iPhone 13 mini last September while retaining the iPhone 13, a similar approach might be expected this year. The iPhone 14 Plus could be discontinued, with the iPhone 14 potentially remaining available for a bit longer.
iPhone 13
Launched in 2021, the iPhone 13 brought several enhancements, including improved battery life, a revamped camera system, and a smaller notch. Originally priced at $799, it has since seen several price reductions and now starts at $599. As the iPhone 13 nears its third anniversary and remains the oldest model in Apple’s current lineup, it is likely to be phased out in favor of the iPhone 14, which might replace it at the $599 price point—at least until the arrival of the iPhone SE 4.
Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 2
Next month might also see updates to all three current Apple Watch models. The anticipated Series 10 is expected to feature larger and more efficient displays, a slimmer profile, and possibly a new chipset. The Ultra 3 might receive a minor refresh, while the SE 3 is rumored to switch to a more affordable plastic casing.
If these new Apple Watch models are introduced, Apple will likely discontinue the Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 2, making way for the new versions.
AirPods 2 and AirPods 3
AirPods 2, which have been available since 2019, serve as the entry-level model with essential features at a lower price. Despite the introduction of AirPods 3 in 2021, which offered improvements such as Spatial Audio and enhanced sound quality, Apple continued to offer AirPods 2. However, this is expected to change.
The upcoming event might introduce two new AirPods 4 models: an entry-level version to replace AirPods 2 and a mid-tier version to succeed AirPods 3. The mid-tier version is anticipated to feature noise cancellation, a feature absent in AirPods 2. As a result, both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 could be discontinued.
iPad mini 6 and iPad 10
We might also see updates to two of Apple’s more affordable iPads next month: the iPad mini 6 and the iPad 10. Despite a recent price reduction for the iPad 10, rumors suggest a refresh is on the horizon. While Apple may offer the iPad 10 at a reduced price, the likelihood of retaining it alongside a new model seems slim.
Similarly, Apple has not maintained older iPad mini models in recent years, so the iPad mini 6 might be phased out as well. The new version is expected to support Apple Intelligence, offer more storage, and potentially be compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro.
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