Apple Unveils New AirPods and Smartwatches: Bigger Screens, Sleep Apnea Detection, and AI Integration

Apple has just raised the bar in the world of tech gadgets with the launch of its latest AirPods and smartwatches. As part of its grand event, titled “It’s Glowtime,” the tech giant introduced its newest innovations, including the iPhone 16 and an impressive lineup of devices aimed at enhancing user experience through artificial intelligence.

The Series 10 Apple Watch: More Screen, Less Bulk, and a Game-Changing Health Feature

The star of the smartwatch lineup is the Series 10 version of the Apple Watch. Sporting 30% more screen real estate while maintaining a slimmer design, the new watch will undoubtedly turn heads. But it’s not just the aesthetics that make this new version stand out. Apple has integrated a highly anticipated feature: sleep apnea detection. Available in over 150 regions, this feature will help users monitor potential sleep disorders, taking Apple’s commitment to health and wellness to a new level.

The Series 10 is about 10% thinner than its predecessor, the Series 9, and comes with a fresh titanium model, which is lighter than the aluminum models. Pricing starts at R7,500 (approximate conversion from $399), with a release date set for 20 September. Apple also revealed a new version of the high-end Ultra series watch, which will retail for about R15,000 and will be available on the same day.

AirPods Get a Facelift

Not to be outdone, Apple has also revamped its AirPods lineup. The standard AirPods, priced at R2,400, now come in a smaller case with USB-C charging, making them more compact and user-friendly.

A midrange version at R3,350, previously only available in the Pro models, will now feature noise cancellation, allowing more consumers to enjoy high-quality audio at a lower price point. The most premium addition to the lineup is the R10,300 AirPods Max, which come in new colours and also feature USB-C charging, delivering an enhanced audio experience.

For those waiting on a new version of the AirPods Pro, Apple had some surprises in store, though not in the form of a new device. Instead, the AirPods Pro will receive new functionalities, such as a hearing test and the ability to serve as a hearing aid, available via a software update this fall.

Apple Intelligence: AI Meets Apple Devices

Artificial Intelligence was a major theme of Monday’s event. Apple showcased its new AI suite, Apple Intelligence, which will initially focus on upgrading the capabilities of Siri, its digital assistant. With AI-powered features like custom emoji creation through text prompts, Apple is set to catch up with tech giants like Google and Microsoft in the AI race.

However, much of this advanced AI tech won’t be ready for a full launch until next year, limiting the immediate impact on iPhone sales. The new Siri interface, dubbed “Glowtime,” was hinted at, but key functionalities will remain under development for now.

What’s Next?

While Apple’s iPhone launch was expected to be the event’s headline, the unveiling of the Series 10 Watch and the latest AirPods took center stage. The timing of this launch is significant, as it places Apple ahead of a busy news day that includes a US presidential debate and a critical ruling from the European Commission on a R263 billion tax issue.

Despite these challenges, Apple remains determined to innovate, using AI to integrate deeper into its product ecosystem. Although its AI technology may not yet match the futuristic capabilities of its rivals, Apple’s focus on practical applications like summarizing messages and notifications makes it clear that the company is in no rush to follow trends blindly.

As the tech world watches, Apple’s steps in the AI space will undoubtedly shape its future — and potentially redefine the consumer electronics market once again.