As has become tradition, Apple is reportedly preparing for a press event this March that would see the Cupertino company refresh its iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch lineups. The most likely date for the reveal at this point is Tuesday, March 15, according to 9to5Mac, citing sources. However, both the date and the nature of the event (in-person, like September's San Francisco launch party, or perhaps online-only) are still subject to change in the nearly six weeks until the Ides.
Let's take a look at the new products Apple is expected to showcase at its March event:
iPad Air 3
The release of Apple's widely-rumored iPad Air 3 would mark the first update to the line of 9.7 inch tablets since the Air 2 first appeared in October 2014. According to 9to5Mac, we can expect to see a number of features that made their debut on November's iPad Pro to make their way to the Air 3. Most notable are an enhanced, four-speaker audio system and the Smart Connector, which also hints that a smaller Smart Keyboard could be on the way as well. Other rumors stemming from unconfirmed sketches of the upcoming device indicate that a rear camera flash could make its iPad debut on the Air 3 this March.
iPhone 5se
As we reported earlier this year, Apple is also expected to release a new 4-inch iPhone that would replace the iPhone 5s as Apple's entry-level smartphone. The new handset is expected to feature the curved edges of the 6 and 6s models while maintaining the dimensions of the 5s. Internally, it will boast a number of improvements picked up from the latest iPhone lines, including possibly the A9 processor, an improved camera with the ability to take Live Photos and an NFC chip for contact-less payments.
Apple Watch updates
While we don't expect Apple to unveil its Watch 2 quite yet, Cupertino reportedly has a new set of bands ready for release at the upcoming event, including new sport band colors, new Hermés bands, a "space black" version of the Milanese Loop, and an entirely new band line made of a new material. Based on rumors coming out of Apple's supply chain, some predict the new bands will take shape in the form of nylon-based NATO straps made famous by Sean Connery's James Bond, but for now this possibility remains speculative.
Apple Watch owners can also look forward to the expected official release of WatchOS 2.2. The update, which was made available to developers earlier this year, could make it possible to sync multiple Apple Watches to a single iPhone, as well as expand functionality within the smartwatch's native Maps app.
These updates all have the potential to affect the way businesses use their iOS devices. For professional Apple support and training that can ensure your company is making the most out of its hardware and software, contact MC Services today.
