- Apple is expected to launch new products next week.
- Rumors suggest that the iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch will only receive minor upgrades.
- Experts say Apple is hitting technological limits.
Apple is expected to show off new devices at its upcoming "Wonderlust" event, but you may want to temper your expectations.
Apple is said to be preparing to launch new AirPods equipped with a USB-C charging box to replace the existing Lightning port. The company is also reportedly planning to integrate USB-C into future iPhone models. If these developments are lackluster, it could mean Apple has hit limits on how much and how quickly its products can be revolutionary rather than iterative.
"There is no doubt Apple's commitment to delivering high-quality products and seamless user experiences," Johan Alexander, CEO of technology company APKCima, said in an email interview with Lifewire. "However, the technology industry faces There are certain technical limitations. As the technology matures, it becomes increasingly challenging to achieve major breakthroughs, leading to more iterative design approaches.”
If the rumors are true, Apple will launch a slew of products at the September 12 event. According to reports, the wireless charging power of all models will be upgraded to 35W. The iPhone appears to be one of the pioneer smartphones to adopt the Qi2 standard, which combines magnetic and wireless charging.
The rumored iPhone 15 Ultra is expected to feature a 6.7-inch screen, a 120 Hz refresh rate, narrower bezels, and a novel "action" button that replaces the traditional silent function. This new button is borrowed from the Apple Watch Ultra and is also expected to appear in the iPhone 15 Pro.
This year's Apple Watch, especially the Series 9, isn't expected to change much. However, their battery life and speed could be improved. New health features may also be added. Additionally, a new pink color may be available in the upcoming collection.
USB-C on iPhones and other devices would be convenient, but hardly a technological dream come true. Apple is indeed promising groundbreaking Vision Pro headphones. However, the headphones won't be available until next year, and with a starting price of $3,500, many users won't be able to afford them.
So, has Apple lost its mojo?
"One possibility is that expectations for innovation and breakthrough features from Apple are so high that any shortcomings may be viewed as bland," technology researcher Arun Dhanaraj said in an email to Lifewire. "Additionally, leaks or speculation about a product can dilute the element of surprise, leading to a lukewarm response from enthusiasts."
As technology matures, achieving major breakthroughs becomes increasingly challenging, leading to more iterative design approaches.
Alexander said Apple's reliance on advanced components, such as the latest chips that power iPhones, could also pose challenges to supply chain availability.
"Balancing the beauty and functionality Apple is known for can sometimes limit radical design changes," he added. “Additionally, regulatory restrictions may limit innovation in specific areas, such as privacy and security.”
Technology analyst Mark Vena pointed out in an email that the smartphone market has matured, making it difficult to introduce breakthrough changes with each new iPhone iteration. "Phone design has reached a point where further improvements, such as camera improvements or faster processors, can only go a long way in sparking consumer excitement," he added. "This limitation is not unique to Apple; It affects the entire industry.”
Alexander said that in order to continue to innovate, Apple needs to invest more in research and development to discover or develop new technologies that can redefine product categories.
“Enhanced integration between hardware and software is critical to creating a more cohesive user experience,” he added. “Prioritizing sustainability initiatives is becoming increasingly important to address environmental issues.”
Wiener noted that Apple must offer more than just iterative hardware upgrades like ports or charging standards. He said a focus on software innovation, user experience enhancement and ecosystem integration can set the company apart.
"Investing in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable technologies are areas where Apple can push the boundaries," he added. "Additionally, exploring new product categories or revolutionary form factors could transform their product lineup. Rejuvenated.”
Mac Steer, owner of technology company Simify, said in an email interview with Lifewire that Apple also needs to innovate its user experience.
"The first time I used an Apple product, it was so intuitive, it felt like I was using something made for me personally," he added. "Sadly, as they've become more generic, they've lost that feel."