The first large product event of 2022 is set to take place, and the focus will be on performance. Faster chips, more devices with 5G connectivity, and more sophisticated cameras are all possible outcomes.
Apple is anticipated to announce numerous product changes, including a major increase to its MacBooks and iMacs, powered by the second iteration of its in-house processor, at a virtual event on Tuesday with the motto “peek performance.” However, an improved iPhone SE may be the unofficial star of the show.
Apple’s event will be broadcast live on the company’s website, YouTube, and other social media sites. It will begin at 10:00 a.m. PT/11:00 p.m. ET. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:
An affordable 5G iPhone
While Apple’s flagship iPhone handsets are usually released in the fall, the rumour mill suggests that the third iPhone SE could be released this week. The device was first released in 2017 and was updated in 2020.
The new iteration is rumoured to operate on Apple’s speedier A15 Bionic engine, have an upgraded camera that shoots 4K video, and possibly do away with the notch that has been a feature of previous iPhones. But it’s the predicted 5G capability that could be the final lure for users, as it would give them access to a speedier wireless network at a lower price point — or so Apple hopes.
“From our consumer smartphone surveys, we still haven’t seen an overwhelming demand for it,” said Anthony Scarsella, an analyst at market research firm IDC. “It’s just that the majority of new gadgets on the market are 5G capable; it’s more of a supply-side push.”
However, he believes that the predicted $399 price tag, which is the same as the current iPhone SE, would appeal to first-time purchasers, as well as those switching from Android and those who want smaller screens.
A 5G iPad Air
The next iPad Air is expected to use the same A15 chipset as the new iPhone SE, as well as 5G connectivity and a new front-facing camera.
New Macs
According to a recent Bloomberg article, Apple is anticipated to unveil new versions of its 13-inch MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and 24-inch Mac, as well as a newly revamped MacBook Air, all powered by the company’s suspected M2 silicon chip.
In 2020, Apple will release its first in-house M1 silicon chipset for its computer lineup, marking a departure from years of relying on Intel’s one-size-fits-all solution. Apple boasted that it had the world’s fastest CPU core and integrated graphics in a personal computer at the time. Apple added the M1 Pro and M1 Max CPUs to the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro lines a year later.
An unexpected suprise
Apple introduced AirTags, a Tile-like Bluetooth finder that attaches to and helps you find stuff like keys, wallets, laptops, and even your car, alongside a new iPad Pro, multicoloured iMacs, and a purple iPhone, last year. So it’s feasible that Apple will have a secret gadget or two in the works this year as well.
