Apple Watch has already hit the stores. Now Apple fans are excited about what the Cupertino company has in store next. With the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) approaching, we can be sure that the iPhone maker will unveil its new software for mobile devices and Macs at the event. The software updates will set the stage for refreshed hardware that may be unveiled at the same event or later this year. So, what should you expect from Apple in 2015?
iPhone 7 almost a certainty
The Cupertino company is expected to launch the iPhone 7 in September this year. Earlier, there were rumors that Apple would release an iPhone 6S. But KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said last month that Apple will jump directly to the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus. He argued that the new smartphone will feature the Force Touch technology, which is too big a feature for a minor upgrade like an iPhone 6S. The ‘S’ versions usually bring minor upgrades.
The iPhone 7 is rumored to be built using the super strong Series 7000 aluminum alloy that is 60% more rigid than the material used in the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. Despite its strength, the new alloy weighs only a third as much as stainless steel. Among other things, the iPhone 7 is expected to run Samsung-made A9 processor, 2GB RAM, and iOS 9 software. The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus will retain the display size of their predecessors, Kuo said.
Relaunch Beats music streaming
Apple will once again try to establish its hold in the music industry. According to 9to5Mac, the tech giant will relaunch Beats Music streaming service at WWDC in June. Earlier this week, The Verge reported that Apple is pushing music labels to kill the free Spotify streaming service ahead of the Beats Music relaunch. It will be priced competitively at just $7.99 per month.
iPad Pro
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro has been rumored for almost two years. The tablet has reportedly been delayed due to display production issues. But the iPad Pro is finally expected to debut in the second half of this year. According to Taiwanese website DigiTimes, the iPad Pro will be aimed at North American education market. Apple will also launch a revamped iPad Mini 4 alongside iPad Pro.
A revamped Apple TV
Apple recently cut the price of its Apple TV set-top box to $69. In March, the company also announced that HBO Now streaming service would be exclusively available to Apple devices for just $15 a month. The tech giant is widely expected to launch a revamped Apple TV. Recent reports suggest that the new set-top box will support third-party apps, voice control via Siri, and home automation features.
According to the Financial Times, the revamped Apple TV would support the App Store as well as video games. The New York Times claimed earlier this week that Apple T will have an improved remote with just two buttons and a touchpad with Force Touch technology that will allow users to navigate the interface.
