Iphone 16 Latest Updates : Apple is ready with its much-anticipated annual September event, scheduled for September 9, 2024, in Cupertino, California, at Apple Park. The event, christened “It’s Glowtime,” promises to be a grand show, especially from the technological giant, since it focuses on launching four new iPhones under the brand iPhone 16 series. As always seems to be the case, though, new devices bring with them the retirements of other, older models. This deep dive looks at the six Apple devices that will almost certainly reach their end of life once the iPhone 16 series hits the market.
1. iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
Considering that, the discontinuation of the iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro Max could be one of the biggest changes accompanying the release of the iPhone 16. In fact, if reports by Macrumors are anything to go by, these models could be taken off the market shortly after the introduction of new iPhones.
The reason behind such a drastic step, if taken, would relate to Apple’s game concerning the latest developments in AI. Currently, the only two models in Apple’s arsenal that are able to run the company’s latest and greatest AI features are the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Killing these models would push customers further toward upgrading to the iPhone 16 series, perhaps where these AI capabilities will be improved even further. This would not only make it necessary to sell the new models, but it would also be sure that users get to use the latest and best technology provided by Apple.
2. iPhone 14 Plus
And following tradition, the iPhone 14 Plus is another model that could be shelved post-iPhone 16 launch. In fact, its predecessor, the iPhone 13 Mini, was killed by Apple when the iPhone 14 series was launched last year. Barring any changes, the same scenario could be expected to play out with the iPhone 14 Plus.
Reports suggest that Apple might be abandoning the Plus models, which were a bit larger than the standard model but never really pulled their weight. The company is reportedly replacing the Plus on the lineup with an “Air” version for the iPhone 17 series. That would fall in line with Apple’s strategy of refining its product lines to meet consumer demand and expectations better.
3. Iphone 13
The Iphone 13 is the oldest model of the Iphone available in the market, entered into the phone arena in the year 2021. After the launch of the Iphone 16 series, the chances of discontinuing the Iphone 13 are very high.
This would also fall in line with Apple’s typical product cycle where older units are phased out, and the new and upgraded models move to the fore and center. This would also thin out the product lineups of Apple, paving the way for a much simpler way to decide between newer models or those that are released one or two generations back.
4. AirPods 2 and AirPods 3
The company is also highly expected to introduce new AirPods alongside the iPhones during the September 9 event. If reports by various publications are anything to go by, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company will introduce AirPods 4 that arrive in two variants, replacing the current AirPods 2 and AirPods 3.
The major difference between the entry-level and mid-tier AirPods 4 will likely come down to ANC inclusion. The mid-range model might include ANC, while the entry-level may not. That would provide a huge amount of choices depending on how much one wants to spend and what features they need. But on the flip side, these all-new models could mean the discontinuation of the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3.
5. iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
There is speculation, too, that Apple might axe the regular iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus variants following the launch of the iPhone 16 series. This potential axing would follow the same logic behind phasing out the Pro models-to help channel sales to the newer, more advanced devices.
Apple usually keeps a couple of previous-generation models available at lower price points to address different segments of the market. But killing both the regular and Pro versions of the iPhone 15 would simplify Apple’s product lineup and nudge consumers toward the iPhone 16 series, which would bring in considerable upgrades in performance, design, and AI capabilities.
6. Apple Watch Series 7
Although the September event is going to be chiefly focused on new iPhones and AirPods, it is possible that Apple might discontinue the Apple Watch Series 7. With the Apple Watch Series 9 in the pipeline, they may want to ax the Series 7 as part of some lineup cleaning.
The Apple Watch Series 7, launched in 2021, featured various changes over its predecessor in size, its display, and quicker charging. Similarly, an expected upgrade to health monitoring features and deeper integration with Apple’s AI ecosystem in the Series 9 could spell the end for the Series 7.
What This Means for Consumers
This could mean a mix of inconvenience and bargains for consumers: on one hand, those who prefer the old ones would have to hurry when stocks last; on the other hand, their eventual discontinuation will drive retailers to clear the inventories of the outgoing models through discounts and promotions.
This also means that software updates tend to end sooner for older devices, as Apple continues to develop software that supports the latest products. This constitutes an important consideration for those consumers who would like their device to remain compatible with the latest applications and services.
Iphone 16 Updates Conclusion
Every Apple event in September is a big deal for the world of technology, and this year’s “It’s Glowtime” is no exception. As tempting the release of the iPhone 16 series and new AirPods would be for headlines, many have remarked on the equal importance of ending several existing models.
This would leave the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 13, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and maybe the Apple Watch Series 7 in jeopardy of being phased out as Apple continues to fine-tune its product lineup. To everyday consumers, it implies being abreast of events and making timely choices as to which devices to buy or upgrade to. Of course, Apple’s strategy has been under a magnifying glass, just as always, either by analysts or customers; it keeps setting the pace in this world of technology.