Apple Unveils iPhone Air and Watch SE 3 Among ‘Awe Dropping’ New Releases

Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on Tuesday unveiled some of the brand’s latest — and most anticipated — releases. Hosted by CEO Tim Cook at the company’s headquarters in Cupertino, CA, the event celebrated the launch of innovative products like the new ultra-thin iPhone Air, the next generation of AirPod Pros and improvements to the Apple Watch line.

AirPods

AirPod Pros 3

The Apple AirPod Pros are getting an upgrade for the third generation, with improved sound capabilities perfect for listening to music, enjoying a television show, or taking a phone call. The Active Noise Cancellation features have been improved, too, offering two times the noise reduction capabilities compared to the previous generation.

Users can also expect new features like:

• Live translation. With a simple gesture, ANC can lower the volume of someone speaking so you can translate individual words and phrases. It also offers live translation through your iPhone, allowing you to respond in languages beyond your native one.
• Improved fit. AirPods now offer five in-ear silicon tips and a smaller body for a better fit for more users.
• IP57 Sweat and water resistance. Designed for active lifestyles, the Pros 3 offers protection against sweat and water, allowing you to push harder.
• Heart rate detection. Fitness enthusiasts can track up to 50 different workout types with their AirPods Pro 3 and iPhone, now equipped with heart rate monitoring for more accurate workout and performance tracking.

AirPod Pro 3 will be available on Sept. 19 for $249.

Apple Watch

Powered by WatchOS 26, Apple has reimagined its watches to better support users in 2025.

Watch Series 11

The new Apple Watch Series 11 is the company's thinnest watch, featuring the toughest glass in the industry. With two times more scratch resistance than the Series 10, the watch includes features such as:

• Health monitoring. With FDA clearance expected soon, the Series 11 can monitor users' bodies and heart health to detect issues like possible hypertension, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
• 24 hours of battery life. The battery has been upgraded for long-lasting performance.
• 5G Capabilities. The Series 11 has a 5G modem for improved performance and better coverage.

The Series 11 is crafted from 100 percent recycled aluminum and debuts with new fall color bands, including designs from Nike and Hermès collaborations. It will be available starting Sept. 19 at $399.

Watch SE 3

The long-awaited SE 3 comes equipped with 5G and an S10 Chip — the same chip found in Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. As the most affordable option in Apple's lineup, it is packed with powerful features for everyday users, including:

• Gesture control. Users can operate their watch with one hand using simple motions, like a double tap or wrist flick — perfect for moments when your other hand is full.
• Workout Buddy. The all-new Workout Buddy, powered by iPhone's Apple Intelligence, uses workout data and your fitness history to deliver real-time verbal motivation during exercise.
• Wrist temperature monitoring. The SE 3 can detect changes in the body, including retrospective ovulation estimates, to offer better health insights.
• Sleep scores. The watch can automatically track users' sleeping patterns and provide sleep scores, as well as alert users when it detects possible instances of sleep apnea.
• Audio capabilities. Forgot your AirPods for your workout? No problem. The SE 3 comes equipped with speakers for on-the-go entertainment. With Apple Music integration, you can tune in wherever you are, no headphones required.

The SE 3 will be available on Sept. 19 for $249.

Watch Ultra 3

The Ultra line has seen major improvements, too, including a super-powered 42 hr battery and the watch's largest and brightest display yet. In addition to the features in the models above, the Ultra 3 is also equipped with dual-frequency GPS and satellite communication for safety and improved location detection — ideal for adventurers who want to stay safe while off the grid.

The Watch Ultra 3 will be available on Sept. 19 for $799.

iPhone Series

iPhone 17

The iPhone 17 delivers faster performance with upgraded hardware and software, paired with a crystal-clear 6.3-inch display. It also features faster charging, an Always On display, and a 48-MP dual camera.

Users can also expect advancements like:

• Improved lockscreen. Includes new live activities and widgets to make your lock screen even more useful.
• Brighter display. Enhanced screen brightness makes it easier to read outdoors.
• Center Stage front camera. Features enhanced stabilization, AI integration and the widest field of view.

The iPhone 17 will start at $799.

iPhone Air

A major highlight at the event was the unveiling of the first-ever iPhone Air model. This all-new iPhone Air offers the powerful features one expects from an iPhone Pro model in the thinnest iPhone design yet. Highlights include:

• All-day battery life. Adaptive power mode anticipates when you’ll run low on battery to help conserve power.
• Ceramic Shield 2. Offers twice the scratch resistance on the front and four times the crack resistance on the back of the phone.
• Titanium frame. Offering extra strength without added weight.
• A19 Pro core. The fastest CPU in any smartphone for improved performance, along with a dynamically adapting Liquid Glass display.
• Fusion camera system. Uses AI to enhance photos, capturing more detailed textures and shadows.

Dubbed the "most power-efficient iPhone ever made," the iPhone Air comes in four colors and has two custom case options. Its price tag will start at $999.

iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro combines exceptional strength with a more comfortable feel. Its unibody is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, delivering a lighter design with improved thermal performance. Other features include:

• Customizable Action Button. Quickly launch and access your favorite iPhone features.
• Best battery life ever. The longest battery life ever found on an iPhone.
• Immersive display. Features 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR Displays.
• Redesigned camera bar. The reimagined bar stretches across the phone’s rear, offering more room for cameras and improved hardware.
• Pro camera system. Includes a 48MP Fusion camera, equipped with an eight times telephoto camera zoom and ProRes Raw Capture support for dynamic range video.
• Upgraded antenna system. Delivers the best and strongest connectivity ever found in an iPhone.
• Vapor chamber cooling. Helps dissipate and release heat, enabling better performance.

Powered with A19 Pro, the iPhone 17 Pro is available in three colors: silver, blue and a bold orange. Techwoven, clear and silicone cases are now available for the phone as well. The Pro model will be available for $1,099, and a 2TB Pro Max version will start at $1,199. Consumers can get up to $1,100 off when they trade in an iPhone 13 Pro or newer in any condition.

All iPhones in the 17 series come equipped with 256GB of storage. Pre-orders begin on Sept. 12 and phones will be available for purchase on Sept. 19.