As reported by multiple sources right now, Apple is very close to releasing seven new iPad models and no less than eight Watch models belonging to the “Series 6.” This has been further backed by recently approved authorizations of the EEC (Eurasian Economic Commission), something that usually appears a few weeks before Apple officially releases a new product.
If these rumors are consistent, we may get to see the models mentioned above presented in an Apple event as early as in September. Potentially though, Apple may want to wait to show everything together along with the iPhone 12 in October.
The EEC listing gave model numbers, so there’s not much point in sharing these since they offer nothing really. Instead, if we want to touch the subject of what to expect, we’ll have to rely solely on ambiguous leaks.
Starting with the Apple Watch Series 6, Taiwan-based sources report that there’s going to be a new blood oxygen level sensor that will detect dangerous hypoxemia conditions or even panic attacks. As for the existing components, the heart rate monitor is rumored for an upgrade, the connectivity (WiFi 6) will be improved with the use of “liquid crystal polymer,” and sleep tracking will enter a next-level territory. The water resistance rating is also expected to be bumped up, as the design of the Digital Crown and the basis it sits upon will be improved.
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Among the new Watch Series 6 models that will be made of aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and ceramic materials, there’s also going to be a plastic one. That’s a first for Apple, and experts believe it will be a lower-cost version of the Watch, starting around the $350 mark.
In regards to the upcoming iPads, we knew since May that there’s going to be a refresh of the “Mini” and that the entire range is going to sport the powerful A12 chip. Analysts bet on the release of an 8.5-inch Mini model and a 10.8-inch iPad, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
Another set of photos that has surfaced just yesterday depicts the new 11-inch iPad Air, featuring an all-screen display with the “Touch ID” being built into the power button. Also, the manuals reference USB-C instead of Lightning ports, so we may see that happening after all.