MacRumors

Apple today introduced the iPad mini 7 with a faster A17 Pro chip, Apple Intelligence support, and Apple Pencil Pro support. In addition, the device also received a handful of smaller upgrades and changes compared to the previous model, as outlined below.

The new iPad mini can be ordered starting today, and it launches on Wednesday, October 23.

Here are six of the device's smaller changes.

Faster USB-C Port

Apple says the USB-C port on the iPad mini 7 is capable of data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is double the 5 Gbps limit on the iPad mini 6.

This upgrade allows for faster data transfer over a USB-C cable, for tasks such as exporting photos from the iPad mini to a Mac.

Here are the USB-C and Thunderbolt speeds for all recent iPad models:

eSIM Only

Following in the footsteps of the iPad Pro and iPad Air, cellular models of the iPad mini no longer have a nano-SIM card slot worldwide. Unlike the iPad mini 6, the iPad mini 7 relies entirely on digital eSIM technology for cellular data plans.

Apple has a support document with helpful information about using an eSIM on an iPad.

Faster Wi-Fi

Like many other recent Apple devices, the iPad mini 7 supports faster Wi-Fi 6E.

Wi-Fi 6E extends the capabilities of the regular Wi-Fi 6 specification to the 6 GHz band, enabling faster wireless speeds and reduced signal interference. In addition to the iPad mini 7, you will need a router with Wi-Fi 6E support.

iPad mini 7 also supports Bluetooth 5.3.

Double the Base Storage

iPad mini 7 starts with 128GB of storage, compared to 64GB for the iPad mini 6. Better yet, the iPad mini continues to start at $499.

Improved HDR Photos

The new iPad mini supports Smart HDR 4, whereas the previous model supports Smart HDR 3.

Apple says Smart HDR 4 makes photos look "even more detailed and vivid."

Here is how Apple previously described Smart HDR 4:

Introduced with iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13, Smart HDR 4 uses intelligent segmentation to apply different adjustments for colour, contrast, and noise to the subject versus the background. This ensures faces are properly exposed in challenging lighting, and renders people in the same photo individually, with different adjustments optimized for lighting and skin tone for each person.

"iPad mini" Inscription

As noted by Parker Ortolani, the iPad mini 7 has an "iPad mini" inscription on the back of device. Previous models of the device merely show "iPad."

Today we're tracking a pair of discounts on Apple's 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro at Amazon and Best Buy. These deals include $300 off original prices of the 512GB and 1TB models, and both match the all-time low price on each model.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Starting with the 512GB 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro, you can get this computer for $1,299.00 at Amazon, down from $1,599.00. Best Buy is matching the same deal, and both retailers have the Silver and Space Gray colors available at this price.

Secondly, Amazon has the 1TB 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro for $1,499.00, down from $1,799.00. Again, you'll find the same price matched at Best Buy, and this is another all-time low price on the M3 MacBook Pro at both retailers.

Keep up with all of this week's best discounts on Apple products and related accessories in our dedicated Apple Deals roundup.

Apple today revealed the seventh-generation iPad mini, introducing several significant upgrades that make it a standout from its predecessor. Here's everything that's new.

At the core of the new device is the A17 Pro chip, first introduced last year in the iPhone 15 Pro, which delivers faster CPU and GPU performance along with advanced graphics features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing. One of the most important additions is support for Apple Intelligence, unlocking new AI-driven features that could dramatically improve user experience. It's also worth noting that the device now starts with 128GB of storage, double the previous base capacity, with no increase in price.

The seventh-generation ‌iPad mini‌ also boasts a faster USB-C port for quicker data transfers, Smart HDR 4 for better photo quality, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro with hover functionality for greater precision. A new Blue color also replaces Pink in the lineup. All of the differences between the sixth- and seventh-generation ‌iPad mini‌ models are listed below:

The seventh-generation ‌iPad mini‌ offers several noteworthy upgrades, but whether you should buy the new model depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use your device. The most significant change is the move to the A17 Pro chip, which brings a notable performance boost across the CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine. This improvement is important for power users who rely on their ‌iPad‌ for demanding tasks such as creative work or intensive multitasking. The addition of hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading also enhances graphics performance, which is ideal for mobile gamers.

‌Apple Intelligence‌ support is another major feature that introduces a wide array of AI functionalities such as notification summaries, writing tools, image and emoji generation, and a revamped version of Siri that integrates ChatGPT and on-screen awareness and the ability to take action. This could be transformative for those who use their ‌iPad‌ for productivity.

The seventh-generation ‌iPad mini‌ also gains ‌Apple Pencil‌ hover and ‌Apple Pencil‌ Pro support, offering more precise control for drawing, writing, and graphic design. These upgrades make the new ‌iPad mini‌ particularly attractive for artists and professionals who use the ‌Apple Pencil‌ extensively. The new USB-C 3.0 port offers twice the data transfer speed of the sixth-generation ‌iPad mini‌, making it a meaningful upgrade for users who frequently transfer large files between devices.

The improved Smart HDR 4 for photos and new True Tone flash enhances camera performance. While not revolutionary, it's a good improvement for those who use their ‌iPad mini‌ for photography and document scanning. Finally, the fresh Blue color adds a subtle aesthetic update, but of course, this is a matter of personal preference.

If you're a power user—someone who relies on their ‌iPad‌ for heavy multitasking, professional work with the ‌Apple Pencil‌, or intensive graphics and gaming—the seventh-generation ‌iPad mini‌'s improvements in speed, ‌Apple Intelligence‌ support, and Pencil support could make a noticeable difference to your workflow and justify an upgrade.

For users intending to use their ‌iPad mini‌ for browsing, light productivity, streaming, and casual gaming, the improvements in the seventh generation may not feel as impactful. The core experience of iPadOS and apps will remain largely the same, with only moderate gains in speed and efficiency. If the sixth-generation ‌iPad mini‌ still handles all your needs—especially if you don't push it to its performance limits—the improvements in the seventh generation might not feel essential.

The A15 Bionic chip is still more than capable for everyday tasks, and unless you require faster data transfers, better ‌Apple Pencil‌ control, or ‌Apple Intelligence‌ for productivity, the new features may not justify the cost of upgrading. If you are one of these users and you do not currently own an ‌iPad mini‌, it may be worth picking up a now-discontinued sixth-generation model for a heavily discounted price.

OPPO's upcoming Find X8 series will include a pressure-sensitive camera shutter button that resembles Apple's new Camera Control feature introduced with the iPhone 16.

The ‌iPhone 16‌'s Camera Control is a pressure-sensitive button allows users to interact with the camera in ways that were previously only possible with on-screen gestures and can perform functions such as launching the camera, taking pictures, switching between cameras, and zooming in. Chinese smartphone maker OPPO recently confirmed that its upcoming Find X8 series will feature a similar camera shutter button (via Android Authority).

OPPO's product manager, Zhou Yibao, revealed on the Chinese social media platform Weibo that the Find X8 series will include a pressure-sensitive button designed to streamline camera controls. According to Zhou, the button will allow users to quickly launch the camera app with a double-tap and swipe to zoom, with clear parallels to Apple's implementation. Zhou also pointed out that the camera button on OPPO's device has been specifically designed for underwater use.

Vivo's recently launched X200 series also exhibits similarities to the iPhone, boasting 4K video recording at 120 frames per second and cinematic slow-motion video capture—features that align closely with those recently introduced in Apple's ‌iPhone 16‌ Pro models. The X200 also supports Live Photos that are compatible with the iPhone.

Vivo's X200 series also introduces "Origin Island," a dynamic interface feature that bears a striking resemblance to Apple's "Dynamic Island" on the iPhone. Much like Apple’s implementation, Origin Island provides real-time notifications, multitasking capabilities, and cross-app operations within a single interactive space.

Apple today announced a significant upgrade to the iPad mini, now featuring an A17 Pro chip and support for the company's new Apple Intelligence system. The refreshed seventh-generation tablet maintains its compact 8.3-inch design while offering notable performance improvements and new capabilities.

The new iPad mini also gains support for Apple Pencil Pro, which introduces pressure sensitivity, haptic feedback, and gesture controls. Other improvements include Wi-Fi 6E support, faster USB-C data transfer, and an upgraded 12MP wide camera with Smart HDR 4.

Apple Intelligence offers features improved writing tools, image generation, and enhanced task automation. The system utilizes both on-device processing and cloud-based models to balance performance and privacy. The first set of Apple Intelligence features will be available in U.S. English this month through a free software update with iPadOS 18.1.

Available in four colors, including new blue and purple options, the new iPad mini with Wi-Fi starts at $499 for 128GB of storage (double the minimum storage of the previous generation), and $649 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The new iPad mini is also available in 256GB and 512GB configurations.

Pre-orders begin today, with availability starting October 23. A new Smart Folio, available in charcoal gray, light violet, denim, and sage, is also available for $59.

The FIDO Alliance is developing new specifications to enable secure transfer of passkeys between different password managers and platforms. Announced on Monday, the initiative is the result of collaboration among members of the FIDO Alliance's Credential Provider Special Interest Group, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, 1Password, Bitwarden, Dashlane, and others.

Passkeys are an industry standard developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium, and were integrated into Apple's ecosystem with iOS 16, iPadOS 16.1, and macOS Ventura. They offer a more secure and convenient alternative to traditional passwords, allowing users to sign in to apps and websites in the same way they unlock their devices: With a fingerprint, a face scan, or a passcode. Passkeys are also resistant to online attacks like phishing, making them more secure than things like SMS one-time codes.

The draft specifications, called Credential Exchange Protocol (CXP) and Credential Exchange Format (CXF), will standardize the secure transfer of credentials across different providers. This addresses a current limitation where passkeys are often tied to specific ecosystems or password managers.

For Apple users, the development could significantly enhance the utility of passkeys across their devices and services. Once implemented, users may be able to securely move their passkeys between Apple's built-in password management system and third-party password managers, and event to non-Apple platforms. It's worth noting that the new specifications are currently open for community review and feedback, so it could be a while before we see them implemented and the specifications could change in the meantime.

Apple's 2026 iPhones will use TSMC's next-generation 2-nanometer fabrication process in combination with a new packaging method that will integrate 12GB of RAM, a reputable source of accurate predictions about Apple's plans has claimed.

In a Weibo post on Tuesday, Chinese-language user "Phone Chip Expert" said Apple's A20 chip in iPhone 18 models will switch from the previous InFo (Integrated Fan-Out) packaging to WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) packaging, while memory will be upgraded to 12GB.

In terms of the differences in packaging method, InFo allows integration of components, including memory, within the package but focuses more on single-die packaging where memory is typically attached to the main SoC (such as DRAM placed on top or near the CPU and GPU cores). It's optimized for reducing the size and improving the performance of individual chips.

WMCM, on the other hand, excels at integrating multiple chips within the same package (hence the "Multi-Chip Module" part). This method allows more complex systems, such as CPUs, GPUs, DRAM, and other custom accelerators (e.g., AI/ML chips) to be tightly integrated in one package. It provides greater flexibility in arranging different types of chips, stacking them vertically or placing them side by side, while also optimizing communication between them.

As for memory, all current iPhone 16 models feature 8GB of RAM, which is considered to be the minimum requirement for Apple Intelligence. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has said he expects next year's iPhone 17 Pro to feature 12GB of RAM, so it could be that Apple will make it a new standard across the succeeding iPhone 18 series.

Having said that, Kuo also believes that only "Pro" models in the iPhone 18 series are likely to use TSMC's next-generation 2nm processor technology because of cost concerns. Meanwhile, it's not clear whether the fabrication tech and the memory size are indelibly intertwined in Apple's plans.

Nanometer Generations

Terms like "3nm" and "2nm" describe generations of chip manufacturing technology, each with its own set of design rules and architecture. As these numbers decrease, they generally indicate smaller transistor sizes. Smaller transistors allow more to be packed onto a single chip, typically resulting in increased processing speed and improved power efficiency. This year's iPhone 16 series is based on an A18 chip design built using a second-generation "N3E" 3nm process.

TSMC plans to start manufacturing 2nm chips in late 2025, and Apple is expected to be the first company to receive chips built on the new process. TSMC generally builds new fabs when it needs to increase production capacity to handle significant orders for chips, and TSMC is expanding in a major way for 2nm technology.

The leaker "Phone Chip Expert" has a track record of accurate predictions. They were first to correctly reveal that the standard iPhone 14 models would continue to use the A15 Bionic chip, while the more advanced A16 chip would be exclusive to the ‌iPhone 14‌ Pro models. More recently, they were the first source of information about Apple developing its own AI server processor using TSMC's 3nm process, targeting mass production by the second half of 2025.

Following an Amazon-exclusive Matte White version of the Beats Studio Pro that launched last month, Best Buy recently debuted its own exclusive color option for the over-ear headphones from the Apple-owned brand: Black & Gold.

Offering a two-tone alternative to the standard Black color option, the Black & Gold Beats Studio Pro feature a largely black exterior but with something of a champagne or gold color inside the headband and all the way down to where the ear cups attach. Gold accents for the headband hinges and the Beats "b" button provide additional contrast.

The Black & Gold Beats Studio Pro come with the same traditional black nylon case as the original four launch colors for the headphones, and they come with gray USB-C and 3.5mm cables for charging and connectivity.

The new Black & Gold color option for the Beats Studio Pro retails for the usual Studio Pro price of $349.99, although Best Buy is currently running a significant sale on most Beats headphones and earphones that knocks $100 off to bring the price to $249.99.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Best Buy. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Apple is preparing to begin supporting digital car keys in the Wallet app for certain Volvo, Polestar, and Audi vehicles, based on code changes discovered by MacRumors in Apple's Wallet app backend.

‌The car keys‌ function can allow an iPhone or Apple Watch with NFC capabilities to unlock, lock, or start a vehicle through the Wallet app by simply holding the device near a compatible vehicle's NFC reader. Car key functionality may vary by manufacturer and model.

Apple introduced ‌digital car key support‌ in 2022, and select car brands like BMW, BYD, Hyundai/Genesis/Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, and RAM have implemented support for the feature‌. Apple maintains a full list of vehicles that support ‌car keys‌ on its CarPlay model availability web page.

Apple today provided developers with the seventh betas of iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 to continue testing Apple Intelligence features. The seventh betas come a week after Apple seeded the sixth iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 betas.

The updates can be downloaded from the Settings app on a compatible device by going to General > Software Update. Note that ‌Apple Intelligence‌ features still an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 to run.

‌Apple Intelligence‌ includes Writing Tools that are available wherever text can be selected and edited, and it can be used for spell checking, fixing grammar, rewriting with a new tone, and summarizing text.

Siri has a new design with a subtle glow around the display, and there is a Type to ‌Siri‌ feature so you don't have to speak to ‌Siri‌. ‌Siri‌ can follow along if you stumble over your words, and can maintain context between requests. Safari can summarize articles, and there's a new Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode.

Smart replies are available in Messages and Mail, plus the Mail app surfaces time sensitive messages and puts them at the top of your inbox. Photos has a Memory Movie feature for creating slideshows based on text descriptions, and you can record, transcribe, and summarize phone calls. Transcription and summarization are also available for any audio recording.

More on all of the features that are available in the betas right now can be found in our Apple Intelligence guide. Image Playground, Genmoji, and other new ‌Siri‌ features have not yet been implemented.

The update also includes phone call recording and transcription on all devices, plus it adds the option to take spatial photos on the iPhone 15 Pro models.

Apple today seeded the fifth betas of upcoming watchOS 11.1, visionOS 2.1, and tvOS 18.1 updates to developers for testing purposes. The fifth betas come a week after Apple released the fourth betas.

watchOS 11.1 can be installed by going to the Apple Watch app and selecting the Software Update section under "General" in Settings. tvOS 18.1 can be downloaded and installed through the Apple TV Settings app, and visionOS 2.1 can be installed by going to the Software Update section of the Settings app on the Vision Pro and opting into Beta Updates.

So far, no major new features have been discovered in these three updates, though there are undoubtedly some minor feature tweaks and bug fixes that we'll learn about when Apple's release notes become available.

These betas are accompanied by iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1, which will introduce Apple Intelligence. There are no ‌Apple Intelligence‌ features in watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS as of yet.

While we don't always know what's included in minor watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS updates, we inform MacRumors readers when updates are available so those who are developers can download new software upon release.

Anker recently kicked off an early access Black Friday sale, which is set to run through the end of the month. These early bird deals include big discounts on portable chargers, USB-C hubs, cables, and more.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Anker. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Additionally, MacRumors readers can still get 20 percent off a collection of Anker's best chargers, power banks, cables, hubs, and docks this month. In order to get this deal, head to Anker's website and add an accessory to your cart, then enter the code akmacrumors20ch at checkout to see the discount.

Our exclusive 20 percent off code works on most accessories sitewide, including Anker's new line of MagSafe-compatible products. Our code does not stack with any existing offers, including the early access Black Friday deals.

We've collected all of the MagGo accessories compatible with our code below, but don't forget that the code works with even more devices sitewide. All prices listed below will appear after you enter the code akmacrumors20ch at the checkout screen on Anker's website.

Prime Chargers

• Prime USB-C to USB-C Cable - $28.00, down from $34.99
• Prime Charger (200W, 6 Ports) - $68.00, down from $84.99
• Prime Charger (100W, 3 Ports) - $68.00, down from $84.99
• Prime Power Bank - $72.00, down from $89.99
• Prime Charging Station (8-in-1) - $132.00, down from $164.99
• Prime Power Bank 27,650 mAh - $133.00, down from $179.99
• Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1) - $200.00, down from $249.99

Wireless Chargers

• MagGo 3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charging Station - $72.00, down from $89.99
• MagGo Wireless Charger Stand - $28.80, down from $35.99
• MagGo 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Stand - $39.99, down from $49.99
• MagGo 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Dock Stand - $40.00, down from $49.99

Power Banks

• MagGo Power Bank 10,000 mAh - $60.00, down from $69.99
• MagGo Power Bank for Apple Watch - $64.00, down from $79.99

Accessories

• MagGo Magnetic Case with Stand - $24.00, down from $32.99
• MagGo USB-C Adapter - $22.99, down from $34.99
• Easy Fit Screen Protector - $25.60, down from $31.99

Our full Deals Roundup has more information on the latest Apple-related sales and bargains.

Apple Maps in iOS 18 introduces two helpful new features: a centralized Library for saved content and the ability to add personal notes to locations. Here's how to take advantage of these new tools.

Using the New Library

Apple's iOS 18 update brings significant improvements to the Maps app, and streamlines the process of saving and organizing your favorite locations. Building on the existing Guides feature, the new version introduces a simple "+" button on location listings for quick saving.

A new Library menu now houses all of your saved places, including those from Guides and Pinned locations. The Library also automatically incorporates previously saved locations, offering a comprehensive view of your favorite spots.

You can individually search through your Pinned, Places, Guides, and Routes collections, and use the three-dot button to sort them by date added, name, or distance, and toggle between list and grid views. The update also enables direct saving of new locations from within the Library itself, via the + Add button.

In summary, the new Library consolidates content that was previously spread across different sections of the app, which makes your saved place information a lot more accessible.

Adding Notes to Locations

iOS 18 also introduces the ability to add personal notes to any location in Apple Maps. This feature allows you to jot down reminders, impressions, or any other information you want to associate with a specific place. To add a note:

1. Search for or tap on a location in Maps.
2. Tap the More button (three dots) in the location's information card.
3. Tap Add a Note.
4. Type your note, then tap Done.

Your notes are private and stored only on devices logged into your Apple account. This feature can be particularly useful for remembering details about restaurants, marking meeting spots, or keeping track of places you want to visit.

These new features in iOS 18's Maps app offer enhanced organization and personalization, and there are other additional tools checking out that we've covered elsewhere, including custom routes, hiking trails, and a new Search Here function.

Apple's AI research team has uncovered significant weaknesses in the reasoning abilities of large language models, according to a newly published study.

The study, published on arXiv, outlines Apple's evaluation of a range of leading language models, including those from OpenAI, Meta, and other prominent developers, to determine how well these models could handle mathematical reasoning tasks. The findings reveal that even slight changes in the phrasing of questions can cause major discrepancies in model performance that can undermine their reliability in scenarios requiring logical consistency.

Apple draws attention to a persistent problem in language models: their reliance on pattern matching rather than genuine logical reasoning. In several tests, the researchers demonstrated that adding irrelevant information to a question—details that should not affect the mathematical outcome—can lead to vastly different answers from the models.

One example given in the paper involves a simple math problem asking how many kiwis a person collected over several days. When irrelevant details about the size of some kiwis were introduced, models such as OpenAI's o1 and Meta's Llama incorrectly adjusted the final total, despite the extra information having no bearing on the solution.

We found no evidence of formal reasoning in language models. Their behavior is better explained by sophisticated pattern matching—so fragile, in fact, that changing names can alter results by ~10%.

This fragility in reasoning prompted the researchers to conclude that the models do not use real logic to solve problems but instead rely on sophisticated pattern recognition learned during training. They found that "simply changing names can alter results," a potentially troubling sign for the future of AI applications that require consistent, accurate reasoning in real-world contexts.

According to the study, all models tested, from smaller open-source versions like Llama to proprietary models like OpenAI's GPT-4o, showed significant performance degradation when faced with seemingly inconsequential variations in the input data. Apple suggests that AI might need to combine neural networks with traditional, symbol-based reasoning called neurosymbolic AI to obtain more accurate decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

The Apple Watch Series 10 arrived a year after the Apple Watch Ultra 2, introducing a revamped design and a more advanced display. Apple did not launch an Apple Watch Ultra 3 this year, leaving last year's Apple Watch Ultra 2 as the latest version, so how does it compare to the latest Series 10 model?

Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 feature sleep apnea detection, speaker playback, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, an Always-On Retina display, IP6X dust resistance, and more, but there are still some significant differences between the two devices. Since the Series 10 is a year newer than the Ultra 2, it boasts a limited number of superior features, but the Ultra 2 remains the overall more capable device. The Apple Watch Ultra focuses on withstanding extreme environments, a high level of durability, extended battery life, and additional features to aid activities like diving and exploration.

With as little as $50 between the 46mm titanium Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra, some prospective customers will be weighing up whether it is worth spending a little extra to get the 49mm Ultra model. While there is a $400 difference between the GPS-only 42mm aluminum Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra, the high-end model offers a set of features to address specific challenges, so it may even be worth it for some of these buyers. Key differences between the devices include:

One of the most important differences between the Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 is their design, with the latter boasting a much chunkier, aggressive look with a flat display. The Apple Watch Series 10 has a much subtler appearance and is available in wider range of finishes, but which look you prefer is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

Ways the Apple Watch Series 10 Is Better

While the Apple Watch Series 10 does have some hardware improvements over the Apple Watch Ultra 2, such as a reengineered metal back with a larger charging coil and an integrated antenna, and a more compact chip, these are not really outwardly noticeable. The most noticeable enhancement is an updated display, which features a faster refresh rate to enable a live ticking seconds hand on certain watch faces. The display is also up to 40% brighter then viewed at an angle, making it easier to glance at the time or complications.

The Apple Watch Series 10 continues to be thinner, lighter, and cheaper than the Apple Watch Ultra. It also charges twice as quickly, but with a considerably shorter battery life.

Ways the Apple Watch Ultra Is Better

Nevertheless, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains the more capable watch with a wide array of superior features:

Which Should You Choose?

The Apple Watch Ultra offers specific capabilities to address the requirements of those who need their Apple Watch to provide assistance in challenging environments. If you need a more durable Apple Watch with features like a brighter display, louder speakers, a more reliable GPS, better water resistance, and more, the Apple Watch Ultra is undoubtedly the best choice. The Apple Watch Ultra is clearly better equipped to handle tasks like hiking, diving, and navigation.

The Apple Watch Ultra is also biggest and most feature-rich Apple Watch option available, not to mention that it offers the first true redesign of the device since its introduction in 2015. For technology enthusiasts, Apple Watch Ultra represents a way to get a new Apple Watch experience with top specifications in several key areas. Features like longer battery life, a brighter display, and the Action button are also highly accessible, and will be beneficial to all users. As such, some customers may still be inclined to choose the Apple Watch Ultra 2 over the Apple Watch Series 10, even if they do not need it for use in challenging environments.

As the largest Apple Watch model to date, the size of the Apple Watch Ultra will not be for everyone. If you already prefer the 42mm Apple Watch casing size, the Apple Watch Ultra may be far too large for you. If in doubt, it may be worth heading to an Apple Store and trying on the Apple Watch Ultra in person to get to grips with the size and determine if it is too big and bulky for you. It is worth noting that the 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 has a display that is actually slightly larger than that of the Apple Watch Ultra 2, but it is a smaller device physically.

Similarly, the Apple Watch Ultra's look may not appeal to some buyers. If you prefer the idea of a polished finish and are looking for a more fashion-focused smartwatch that pairs well with premium bands, the more aggressive, rugged design of the Apple Watch Ultra may not be for you.

If the Apple Watch Ultra is out of your price range but you still want to use your Apple Watch in challenging environments, it is worth bearing in mind that the Series 10 still offers a durable design with a strong front crystal, water resistance, and many of the Apple Watch Ultra 2's software features like waypoint marking.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a lot to offer, especially for the subset of users who can take advantage of all of its capabilities, so it is certainly worth considering when purchasing a new model, but the Apple Watch Series 10 is still a compelling all-around option that comes in at a lower price point with a subtler design.

Apple is working on a more affordable version of its spatial computing headset in the form of a $2,000 "Apple Vision" device that could debut as early as next year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

The new headset would be a lower-end counterpart to the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro, which was released in February. Apple reportedly expects this more affordable model to sell at least twice as many units as the Vision Pro, though "that's not saying much," adds Gurman. Apple will struggle to hit 500,000 Vision Pro sales this year, according to market tracker IDC.

To achieve the lower price point, the Apple Vision would likely use a less powerful processor and cheaper materials than aluminum and glass. The device is also expected to omit certain inessential features, such as the EyeSight display that shows the user's eyes on the outside of the headset. Apple could also use larger, lower resolution displays for the more affordable version of the Vision Pro headset, according to previous reports.

Apple's Vision Products Group is reportedly prioritizing the development of this lower-cost option, recognizing that the Vision Pro's high price and ergonomic issues have limited its appeal. The team reportedly aims to create a device with broader market potential while still delivering a compelling spatial computing experience.

Gurman's report also mentions that Apple is working on a second-generation Vision Pro, slated for release in 2026. This update would primarily feature a faster processor, with few other hardware changes expected. Apple is also said to also be working on a smart glasses project alongside the Apple Vision and Apple Vision Pro headsets.

Serial leaker Sonny Dickson has shared an image on social media purporting to show a case designed for Apple's unannounced iPhone SE 4. The case aligns with most rumors about the device, expected to launch in the spring, but there is one difference.

Rumors have suggested that the iPhone SE 4 will have a design similar to the iPhone 14, featuring an all-display design with Face ID instead of Touch ID, a 6.06-inch display, OLED display technology instead of LCD, a USB-C port, a single 48-megapixel rear camera located in a horizontal oblong bump, an Apple-designed 5G modem, 8GB RAM, a notch, and perhaps a multi-purpose Action button to replace the mute switch.

Most of the rumored design changes align with what can be seen in the image. However, if you look closely, there's a cut-out on the side above the location of the volume controls that appears to be an opening for a physical mute/silent switch. It's possible that the case manufacturer has left a cutout simply because they don't know if the button will be present or not. But given that Apple suppliers are expected to begin ramping up mass production of the device this month, it could be that Apple has chosen not to add an Action button, despite the fact that all iPhone 16 models inherited the button from 2023's iPhone 15 Pro models.

Some users may consider the lack of a programmable Action button a deal breaker, but we're betting most iPhone SE buyers wouldn't care. In our own online poll conducted earlier this year, half of iPhone 15 Pro users who participated said they forgot the Action button was even there, while many said they had it set to function essentially as a mute/silent switch replacement. The results suggest the button is popular with a more niche cohort of power users (i.e., not the kind of customers most likely to be interested in a ~$500 iPhone).

There's a small possibility that the more affordable iPhone SE 4 could be released ahead of the Lunar New Year in January 2025. However, all three previous iPhone SE models were announced in March over the years, so a spring 2025 release seems most likely.