iPhone 16, Apple Watch X, iOS 18, and everything coming in Apple’s biggest month

Macworld

This is it, the biggest month of the year for Apple fans.

September is when Apple releases new iPhones and Apple Watches, as well as the major updates to its operating systems that we’ve been hearing about since WWDC in June. That means iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 3, and iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS 15 Sequoia, and watchOS 11.

This September might be a little extra special, as we’re hearing about some new AirPods on the way and maybe a new iPad mini, too. On top of that, there are all the usual service releases for Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade. So strap in—here’s everything we expect Apple to release in September 2024.

New hardware releases

Apple is set to release updates to some of its most popular products in September, with a special event planned for September 9 (see how to watch the Apple event). Here’s what’s on tap:

iPhone 16: Larger screens for the Pro models, A18 processors, Apple Intelligence, new camera capabilities, a new Capture button, and more. This is going to be a big upgrade for a lot of people. Read everything we know about the iPhone 16.

Apple Watch Series 10: This may be called Apple Watch 10, X, or Series X, in honor of the 10th anniversary of Apple Watch (which was first unveiled on September 9, 2014) and looks to be the first significant design change ever. Rumors point to a larger display and a slimmer profile, with the possible addition of some new health sensors or features. Read what we know about the Apple Watch Series 10.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: The 3rd-gen Apple Watch Ultra is expected to be more or less the same as the current model, only with the same new processor (and maybe new sensors) found in the Apple Watch Series 10.

Apple Watch SE 3: The 3rd-gen Apple Watch SE should resemble an Apple Watch Series 7, more or less. One rumor suggested Apple may use a rigid plastic chassis to trim costs and aim this model very much at kids/parents.

AirPods: There are two sets of AirPods expected. One is a new entry-level model to replace the hopelessly outdated 2nd-gen AirPods, with a new design and USB-C case. The other is a mid-tier update to the 3rd-gen AirPods, which will get active noise canceling for the first time. New AirPods Max are supposedly not far off, but not rumored to be announced at this September event. Read more about the upcoming AirPods.

iPad mini: This isn’t the first time we’ve heard that an iPad mini refresh is on the way. But the current model can’t support Apple Intelligence, which will be a big push for Apple, and the Apple stores and retailers are running out of stock on the current model without replenishing it—that usually points to an imminent upgrade. If the iPad mini does get an upgrade, we don’t expect much to change other than the processor.

Apps and software updates

September is also a huge month for software. Apple is set to release its yearly major updates of all its operating systems. The Apple Intelligence features won’t arrive until later updates, starting with the point-1 releases in October, but there are still loads of great new features in the initial release.

iOS 18: New Home screen customization options, an all-new Photos app, new features for Messages including RCS support, and much more. Read all about iOS 18.

iPadOS 18: You get all the features of iOS 18, including the awesome new Math Notes capability that really shines on the tablet. Read more about iPadOS 18.

‌tvOS 18: tvOS isn’t getting a major overhaul, just a few tweaks. There’s InSight, enhanced dialog support and subtitles, and a few new Home features.

macOS 15 Sequoia: With macOS 15 Sonoma, you’ll be able to mirror your iPhone to your Mac! There are a bunch of other nice features too, like the Passwords app, easier window tiling, a new calculator, and more. Read all about macOS 15 Sequoia here.

Services

Apple TV+

Here are the shows, series, and movies we expect to release on Apple TV+ in September. If you want to know what’s coming later, check our guide to upcoming Apple TV+ content.

Slow Horses (season 4): This darkly funny espionage drama follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve in a dumping ground department of MI5 due to their career-ending mistakes. Led by their brilliant but irascible leader, the notorious Jackson Lamb, they navigate the espionage world’s smoke and mirrors to defend England from sinister forces. September 4

La Maison: High fashion meets high stakes in this realistic behind-the-scenes look at how an iconic fashion house is thrown into scandal and reinvention by a viral video featuring star designer Vincent Ledu, leaving his family’s iconic and legendary haute couture house, LEDU, hanging by a thread. September 20

Midnight Family: Apple’s first all-Spanish-language series, with an entirely Hispanic cast and crew. The story follows Marigaby Tamayo, a medical student by day who spends her nights saving lives throughout Mexico City aboard her family’s privately owned ambulance. September 25

Apple Arcade

Apple releases most Apple Arcade games on the first Friday of each month. Check our Apple Arcade FAQ for a full list of Apple Arcade games and more details on the service. Occasionally, games are released with no forewarning, but you’ll usually see next month’s releases listed in the Coming Soon section.

Monster Train+: An excellent deck-building roguelike makes its way to Apple Arcade, but it’s the only game listed for release in September. September 5

Find out more about Apple’s launch plans beyond September in our guide to new Apple products coming in 2024/2025.