Apple is planning several major hardware updates in 2024, according to recent reports by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg and other Apple insiders. After a relatively routine iPhone update expected this fall with the iPhone 15 series, big changes are on tap for 2024.
New AirPods Models With Upgraded Features
The AirPods product line is expected to see expanded choice at lower price points. Gurman reports that Apple is planning to launch fourth-generation AirPods in 2024 with a new design and added features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Adding ANC would bring this base AirPods model more in line with the current AirPods Pro.
Other rumored AirPods updates for 2024:
- Third-generation AirPods Pro with updated processors for improved ANC
- New AirPods Max over-ear headphones, possibly with USB-C charging
- Affordable AirPods model priced under $100
Having a good-quality AirPods model with ANC at a lower price point would make the feature more accessible to mainstream consumers. It could considerably boost AirPods sales growth.
The addition of USB-C charging to some AirPods models would also be noteworthy, signaling Apple’s broader adoption of USB-C. All iPhone models are expected to transition to USB-C over the next two years, following the lead of recent iPads and Macs.
Redesigned Apple Watch with Enhanced Health Features
2024 could see the launch of an all-new 10th generation Apple Watch, the first complete redesign since the Apple Watch Series 4 in 2018. Rumors point to a flatter display and chassis for a sleeker look.
The new Series 10 Watch is also expected to add capabilities for monitoring blood pressure and detecting sleep apnea. These key health features would further differentiate Apple Watch from competitors and reinforce its positioning as a medical-grade health device.
Other potential Apple Watch updates in 2024:
- Temperature sensing
- Improved activity and sleep tracking
- Extended battery life
- Possible switch to USB-C
With its strong health focus, the next-gen Apple Watch could accelerate Apple’s growth in the wearables market. It would also strengthen ties to the healthcare sector as Apple seeks additional revenue streams around digital health services.
Steady iPhone Upgrades Plus a New Ultra Tier
Apple is expected to stick to its usual fall release cycle for new iPhone models in 2024. Improvements to the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro models this year are not expected to be dramatic. So the 2024 iPhone 16/16 Pro could bring more significant changes.
Potential updates on tap for the 2024 iPhone lineup:
- Completion of USB-C transition across all models
- Further improvements to display quality, cameras, and processors
- New satellite emergency calling features
- Launch of larger “Ultra” iPhone model above Pro tier
The Ultra would serve as an even more premium iPhone positioned at the very high end of the smartphone market. It could have advanced cameras, more RAM, and an enormous display. Pricing speculation puts it in the $1,199 to $1,499 range.
While the Ultra would generate headlines and appeal to the most devoted Apple fans, the new AirPods and Apple Watch updates actually stand to directly impact many more consumers.
Greater Focus on Wearables and Vision in 2024
Steady iPhone sales will continue generating ample profits for Apple. But for revenue growth, Apple is counting more on AirPods, Apple Watch, and services like health apps.
Apple’s wearables business has already eclipsed the Mac and is nearing the iPad business in quarterly revenue:
| Product Category | FY 2022 Revenue |
|---|---|
| iPhone | $192.8 billion |
| Wearables, Home, Accessories | $52.9 billion |
| Mac | $35.2 billion |
| iPad | $29.6 billion |
| Services | $78.1 billion |
With AirPods and Apple Watch representing over 70% of wearables revenue, upgrades to these product lines will be critical for Apple’s growth trajectory in 2024 and beyond.
Healthcare also represents a longer-term growth area for Apple. In addition to hardware advancements, 2024 could see the launch of the alleged “Apple Vision” healthcare service for optometry and eye care. Though details remain slim, Apple Vision is speculated to involve both virtual and in-person care options via partnerships with healthcare providers.
Outlook: More Consumer Choice with Tradeoffs
Apple’s 2024 roadmap points to an expansion of the product portfolio with more choice across iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch lineups. Lower-priced options like the base AirPods model with ANC would make higher-end features more accessible. And the planned Ultra iPhone would give professionals and power users a new aspirational target.
More choice inevitably involves tradeoffs, however. Adding premium features like ANC to lower-cost AirPods likely means sacrificing some sound quality, for example. And advancing health sensors in Apple Watch results in higher prices that could limit uptake among more budget-conscious consumers.
Striking the right balance across its matrix of products and prices will be critical for Apple to continue growing its installed base of active devices in 2024 and beyond. If it succeeds, Apple should be well positioned for the next wave of digital transformations spanning healthcare, fitness, augmented reality, and vehicles.
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
