On Wednesday, Apple is anticipated to hold its first in-person product launch event since before the coronavirus outbreak to introduce the 14th series of its recognisable and popular iPhone. The new iterations of Apple watches, AirPods, and other upgraded models of its products are also anticipated, according to industry observers. This year, consumers will likely pay more attention to prices in addition to technological advancements because inflation is currently close to four-decade highs. People were scoffing at the hefty price tags for smartphones with enhancements that don’t appeal to owners of newer models even before the pandemic, when the economy was thriving.
On January 3, 2019, the Apple shop in the New York City borough of Brooklyn is displaying the company’s logo. The iconic and widely used iPhone is anticipated to be unveiled by Apple in its 14th series at the company’s first live product unveiling since the coronavirus outbreak started. On September 7, 2022, the computer and device giant is expected to unveil the newest iterations of its high-design tech gadgets, including updated models of its Apple watches, AirPods, and other products.
Highlights
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“Pricing is a key watch-point in a tough macro which comprises inflationary pressures and pull back in consumer spending, but we believe it matters more for wearables which are considered more discretionary purchases relative to iPhone by consumers,” JPMorgan analysts wrote. Morgan Stanley analyst Erik Woodring predicted that in addition to the iPhone 14 family of smartphones, the company would release three new Apple watch models and possibly updates to Airpods, HomePod mini and Apple TV.
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In April of 2020, just as the pandemic was crushing the U.S. economy, Apple released the second-generation iPhone SE with a price tag as low as $399, a 40% markdown from the most affordable iPhone 11 unveiled last year. Now, with 9% inflation battering Americans’ household budgets, analysts wonder if consumers won’t wait a little longer to upgrade phones, or pass on the earphones that can cost as much as filling up their gas tanks each month.
Analysts at JPMorgan expect a major screen size update to the iPhone mini and a new, more rugged Apple Watch Pro as well as enhanced sound quality on the AirPods pro. The event will be streamed from Apple’s Cupertino, California headquarters starting at 10 a.m. local time.