September is always a busy month for Apple with numerous product launches.
This year, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4, alongside key software updates like iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and visionOS 2.
As October begins, Apple has even more announcements and product releases on the way. Here’s what’s coming next.
iOS 18.1 and the Public Release of Apple Intelligence
iPhone 16 Pro with Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence, which didn’t make it in time for the iPhone 16 launch, is expected to roll out soon.
Users with compatible devices can join the iOS 18.1 public beta today, while the general public can expect its release in mid-to-late October.
As part of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, Apple’s first wave of AI-driven features will be introduced, offering:
- An enhanced Siri with more intelligence and interactivity
- Smarter notifications with AI-powered summaries
- A new feature for removing unwanted objects in Photos
- Priority messages and AI summaries in Mail
- Tools to refine writing
- A special Focus mode called “Reduce Interruptions”
- Memory movie generation on demand
- Summaries of Safari webpages
This release marks the beginning of an AI-centric year for Apple, as it continues to infuse AI capabilities across its product lines.
M4 MacBook Pros
This month, Apple is updating its popular MacBook Pro line with the M4 chip—available in three versions. Depending on the configuration, customers can choose from:
- M4
- M4 Pro
- M4 Max
Apple is set to refresh all three MacBook Pro models, including the lower-end 14-inch version and the premium 14- and 16-inch options. While details have been scarce, there’s no indication of significant design changes, though Apple may have other surprises beyond the upgraded chips.
M4 Mac mini
The Mac mini is also receiving an update with the M4 chip, featuring a more compact design. While it won’t shrink down to the size of the Apple TV 4K, expect a notably smaller footprint from this versatile Mac.
Alongside the new design, the Mac mini will be available with both M4 and M4 Pro chip options, though the Pro version may have a later release date.
iPad mini 7
Another fan favorite, the iPad mini, is getting an update in October, three years after the release of the iPad mini 6. The 2021 model introduced a modern design, including thinner bezels and the removal of the Home button.
The upcoming iPad mini 7 is expected to follow a similar design path, with a focus on internal upgrades. Although details are limited, anticipated improvements may include:
- Fixes for the jelly scrolling issue
- A chip compatible with Apple Intelligence, such as the A18 or M1
- Support for the Apple Pencil Pro
- Increased base storage
M4 iMac, Possibly with USB-C Accessories
Apple is also rumored to be releasing an M4-powered iMac this year. While the M3 iMac only launched recently, the introduction of the M4 chip may come as just a spec upgrade.
So far, the only confirmed change is the inclusion of the M4 chip, though new USB-C accessories and perhaps fresh color options could be part of the update, given that the current iMac colors have remained unchanged since the M1 model.
iOS 18.2 Beta with Additional AI Features
Shortly after the launch of iOS 18.1, developers will get access to the iOS 18.2 beta, which is expected to include some of the most anticipated features from Apple Intelligence. These include:
- Genmoji, allowing users to create custom emoji
- The new Image Playground app and feature
- ChatGPT integration with Siri and writing tools
- Personal context awareness for Siri
- New inbox categorization in Apple Mail (non-AI-based)
If all these features make it into iOS 18.2, it could be one of the year’s most exciting updates.
New 10.9-inch Base iPad
Earlier reports suggested that Apple would refresh its entire iPad lineup in 2024, including a new base-model iPad this October ahead of the holiday season.
However, recent insights from reliable display analyst Ross Young indicate that panel shipments for the new iPad may not start until October, pointing to a potential early 2025 launch instead.
There’s a possibility Apple could release a new SKU for the base iPad in October, with another version following in the new year. However, it’s more likely that the base iPad isn’t ready for a 2024 release.
Apple’s Upcoming Launches: A Wrap-Up
As always, fall is a busy—and expensive—season for Apple enthusiasts. With an impressive lineup of hardware and software launched in September, and more to come in October, Apple is set to offer an exciting range of products just in time for the holidays and beyond.
