- Apple has announced a virtual media event for September 15 at 1PM Eastern.
- It could announce Apple Watch Series 6, a new iPad Air and release dates for iOS 14, watchOS 7, and more.
- You might not see an iPhone 12 at the event, though — it could wait until later.
Apple isn’t letting the COVID-19 pandemic get in the way of its customary September event, although it will clearly be different this time around — it might not even include iPhones. The company has announced a virtual event (via VentureBeat) on September 15 at 1PM Eastern.
As expected, the company isn’t providing any real clues as to what to expect. The blue-swirled Apple logo doesn’t offer any obvious hints. However, a mix of official news and unofficial leaks might give you an idea of what will be shown at Apple Park.
Most importantly, there’s no guarantee Apple will show the iPhone 12 (or whatever it will be called) on September 15. Apple warned in its latest earnings call that the pandemic would delay the release of its next iPhones by weeks, and tech tipster Jon Prosser has suggested Apple might wait until mid-October to hold a separate event for the new handsets.
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Instead, this presentation might focus on at least some of the other devices and software poised to arrive this fall. Apple Watch Series 6 is a clear candidate for the event, as is a rumored iPad Air redesign that would resemble the Pro. There has also been talk of a smaller HomePod, Apple-branded over-ear headphones. Apple is fond of announcing release dates for software upgrades, too, so you might hear when iOS 14, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7, and macOS Big Sur will arrive.
There are some wildcards. Apple said it would unveil its first Mac based on in-house silicon before 2020 was over, but that’s not certain to be included in a September event. An updated Apple TV could be announced if it isn’t bumped to 2021. And reports have long circulated of Apple releasing Tile-like AirTags to help you find missing items.
The presentation might not directly affect you if you’re an Android fan. However, there’s little doubt that Apple’s fall media events frequently shape the competitive landscape. Don’t be surprised if your favorite Android phone, smartwatch, or tablet vendor tweaks its strategy to counter Apple’s introductions.
