Refreshed MacBook Air and iPad Pro are absent from Apple’s website leak

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

Ahead of Apple’s scheduled Gather Round event, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. PT on Wednesday, September 12, there has been plenty of official leaks of the next-generation Apple Watch and iPhone models. Apple’s official website contained codes revealing details about the official storage capacity, colors, and sizes of the new iPhone models as well as the refreshed Apple Watch designs, confirming previous rumors. However, two important Apple computing products that we didn’t see in Apple’s website code are the iPad Pro and any references to new Mac models. This could suggest that Apple will not announce updates to these products at the Gather Round event.

Previously, it’s been widely speculated that Apple will follow up with a second event in October focusing on its non-iPhone products. Though Apple has not confirmed it has plans for a second event this fall, industry insiders speculated that an October Apple special event will be the venue where Apple will introduce a refreshed MacBook or MacBook Air and a prosumer-oriented Mac Mini. Both the MacBook Air and the Mac Mini two beloved Mac products that haven’t seen any major refreshes in recent years. Earlier rumors indicated that Apple is working on redesigning its MacBook Air, but it wasn’t entirely clear if Apple will position the low-cost notebook as a new member of the MacBook family or as a refreshed MacBook Air.

Given that the iPad straddles the line between iPhone and computer — Apple’s tablet runs the same iOS operating system as its iPhone, but the company often positions the device as a PC replacement — it’s unclear if the iPad will be unveiled Wednesday or next month. The iPad refresh may be an exciting one for Apple users. Reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that Apple may be switching away from its trusted Lightning connector on the tablet for a USB-C port. This means that MacBook owners can bring a single cable with them while traveling to recharge their Apple laptop and tablet.

If Apple does, in fact, unveil refreshed iPad and Mac models next month, it could use one of two strategies. The company could host another special media event, similar to today’s Gather Round keynote, or it could more quietly announce these updates through a press release. The second strategy is what Apple employed when it announced refreshed MacBook Pro models earlier this year.

Digital Trends will be covering the Gather Round event, to stay tuned to stay updated on all the latest Apple news.

Editors’ Recommendations

• What to expect from Apple’s September 12 ‘Gather Round’ event
• A MacBook Air with Retina display and Mac Mini “Pro” could arrive this fall
• What’s the skinny? Apple may launch a new MacBook with ultrathin design soon
• Mac Mini could make a comeback this year with a rumored refresh
• Apple registers 10 unannounced MacBook and iPad devices overseas

U.S. Senate will hear Google, Apple testimony on data privacy this month

Following the testimony of Twitter and Facebook executives earlier in September before Congress, lawmakers are renewing their interest in technology companies. The United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology has scheduled a hearing with Amazon, Apple, AT&T, Charter Communications, Google, and Twitter on September 26 to hear how these technology companies protect the data and personal information of their customers.

The session titled “Examining Safeguards for Consumer Data Privacy” was scheduled by Senator John Thune, R-S.D., to “examine privacy policies of top technology and communications firms, review the current state of consumer data privacy, and offer members the opportunity to discuss possible approaches to safeguarding privacy more effectively.”

Witnesses include Apple’s vice president of software technology, Google’s chief privacy officer, Twitter’s global data protection officer, among others. Interestingly, Facebook is absent from the list of technology companies scheduled to testify. After it was revealed that the personal data of more than 87 million users on its network may have been exposed as a result of the Cambridge Analytica scandal earlier this year, Facebook’s privacy policies were heavily scrutinized, prompting the company to implement changes to how it handles and shares data. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified before Congress in April regarding the scandal, and last month it updated lawmakers on how its fighting hacking and election engineering on its social network.

“Consumers deserve clear answers and standards on data privacy protection,” Thune said in a statement. “This hearing will provide leading technology companies and internet service providers an opportunity to explain their approaches to privacy, how they plan to address new requirements from the European Union and California, and what Congress can do to promote clear privacy expectations without hurting innovation.”

The European Union passed its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) earlier this year in May, and in June, California passed its own state Consumer Privacy Act, which will become effective in 2020. The state allows consumers to opt out from having their data sold and consumers can request companies delete the data that have been collected. California also prevents companies from charging customers for opting out of data collection, and the state attorney general can impose fines if companies fail to protect consumer data from hackers.

Congress will give the six tech companies a chance to explain their approaches to privacy and an opportunity to address how they’ll respond to requirements from new legislation from the EU and California. Unlike some of its peers who lobbied against the California law, Apple will likely promote its pro-privacy policies at the hearing. “At Apple, we believe privacy is a fundamental human right,” the company states on its website. “Every Apple product is designed from the ground up to protect that information. And to empower you to choose what you share and with whom.”

Editors’ Recommendations

• Watch live: Twitter and Facebook executives testify before Congress
• Despite promising to stop sharing your data, Facebook continues to do so
• Facebook suspends data firm claiming access to 1 trillion conversations
• Amazon, Microsoft, Uber donate to oppose the California Consumer Privacy Act
• Two U.S. senators think your TV is spying on you, ask the FTC to investigate

These are the best Galaxy S9 screen protectors

Protecting the Samsung Galaxy S9’s curved display is no easy task — tempered glass offers the best protection but a PET film can generally flex around the edges of curved displays better. There’s also a price difference, so there’s a lot to consider when you’re buying. Whether you prefer tempered glass or a flexible film, these are the best screen protectors for the Samsung Galaxy S9.

Our Favorite

Whitestone Dome Glass

The big selling feature for this wet install screen protector is its unique curing process, which uses UV light. If the worst case scenario has already occurred and your screen is cracked, think of this as a second chance screen before dropping hundreds of dollars on a proper replacement screen. It’s by no means cheap, but it’s one that you can trust to apply well, hold well to the edges of your screen, and protect it with its life.

$50 at Amazon

Easy to Install

amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector

Whereas the Whitestone Dome Glass might require the most complicated installation process, amFilm has tried to simplify the process by providing an installation guide so you can line up the perfect fit. This simpler screen protector also comes with a more wallet-friendly price. The more classic dot-matrix and silicone gel is more prone to peeling up, so make sure you follow amFilm’s installation guide.

$12 at Amazon

Best for Cases

Spigen NeoFlex screen protector (2-pack)

Spigen always makes great cases, so they’re the natural choice for making case-friendly screen protectors. They might not be tempered glass, but they’re far easier on your wallet, and far easier to apply since you can keep your case on. Just make sure you watch the installation video and be very patient with the drying process.

$9 at Amazon

Thinnest Option

IQShield Case Friendly Film Screen Protector (2-pack)

IQShield offers a two-pack of tissue-paper-thin plastic film screen protectors that have been fine-tuned to be compatible just about any case you throw at it. These screen protectors have an oleophobic coating to help prevent fingerprints and smudges and are easy to install.

$8 at Amazon

Are screen protectors and cases a must-buy for any new phone you own or do you prefer the naked look and feel? Have you had hands-on experience with a screen protector that others should know about? Let us know in the comments!

Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+

• Galaxy S9 and S9+: Everything you need to know!
• Galaxy S9 review: A great phone for the masses
• Complete Galaxy S9 and S9+ specs
• Galaxy S9 vs. Galaxy S8: Should you upgrade?
• Join our Galaxy S9 forums

Verizon
AT&T
T-Mobile
Sprint
Amazon

Update September 2018: We’ve updated pricing information for our picks and condensed our recommendations so that you can find what you want faster.

Start a new game with the retro SNK NEOGEO Mini International console

40 retro games are packed into this tiny game console.

It’s time to relive the arcade glory days. Just yesterday SNK announced that its NEOGEO Mini International game console will become available to pre-order in the US on September 12 — as in, today. Considering how popular retro consoles have been recently, there’s a high likelihood this could sell out just like the others, so you may want to get your pre-order in quickly.

Based on the classic Neo Geo arcade cabinet from the 90s, this console will include 40 of SNK’s greatest hits, including Fatal Fury, Art of Fighting, various Samurai Showdown titles, ten ‘The King of the Fighters’ games, and Metal Slug 1 and 2. Unlike the NES Classic and SNES Classic edition consoles from Nintendo, you won’t even need to hook up this retro console to a TV as it features its own built-in 3.5-inch LCD display. There’s also an HDMI port in case you do want to connect an HDMI cable to watch all the action via your television.

The console also features built-in stereo speakers, a headphone jack, joystick controller and the ability to save and load games without the need for an external memory card. If the joystick is a bit smaller than you can see yourself playing comfortably, you can also pick up a NEOGEO Mini Pad in white or black. Those are essential if you want to play two-player too. Considering the entire console is small enough to fit in your palm, I’m sure there are plenty of people who won’t be playing with the built-in controls.

The SNK NEOGEO Mini International is now available for pre-order for $109.99 at Amazon and GameStop.

See at Amazon

How to watch the iPhone (2018) event: Live at 10:00 AM PT on Sept. 12!

iPhone Xs? iPhone X Max? iPhone Xc? Find out the truth about the name at this year’s iPhone event.

Every September, Apple launches a new iPhone and usually one or two additional new devices. This year, we already know we’re going to see two updated (and new sized) versions of the iPhone X, as well as the Apple Watch Series 4, but will Apple bring any other goodies to the party?

Apple iPhone (2018) Event Preview

This year, the iPhone event takes place at 10:00 AM PT/1:00 PM ET on September 12.

Follow along by watching the live stream

You can watch the live stream of Apple’s iPhone event at the official event page, which will be updated just in time for the event.

Apple’s Event page

You can also watch it from the Special Event app on Apple TV.

If you’d like to watch the live stream peppered with some commentary from the team at our sister site, iMore, be sure to follow them on Twitter.

• iMore Twitter
• Rene Ritchie
• Lory Gil

Bookmark iMore’s event page to keep updated on the news

iMore will be covering the event as it happens, but will also spend the rest of the day, the next few days, and the following weeks with follow-up content about everything announced and providing in-depth analysis of the event. Please be sure to bookmark their event page so you can check in regularly to see what they are talking about.

iMore live events page

Don’t forget, the iPhone (2018) event (let’s be real… it’s going to be called iPhone Xs) takes place this Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 10:00 AM PT/1:00 PM ET.

Motiv Ring Review: Nothing up my sleeves

The perfect fitness tracker for people who don’t want to look like they’re wearing a fitness tracker.

After 20 minutes of silence, the woman sitting across from me at this picnic table I was writing at felt compelled to strike up a conversation. “Do you mind if I ask what your wedding ring is made of? I’ve never seen anything else quite like it,” she asked of the complete stranger before her. It caught me off guard, not because I didn’t know who she was, but because I had no idea what wedding ring she was talking about. I quickly realized she was referring to the Motiv Ring on my right hand, and laughed as I explained this wasn’t jewelry I was wearing.

In this way, the folks at Motiv have already produced an absolute success. Nobody will ever look at the gadget on my right ring finger and think it is anything other than a ring, and that’s the whole point. Because this isn’t a wedding ring, but in fact, a fairly capable fitness and sleep tracker crammed into something the size of a ring. And, if I’m being honest, that I can wear this and never know I’m wearing a gadget is why I keep it on my finger.

Hidden in plain sight

Motiv Ring

A unique take on fitness tracking.

This fitness tracker hides in plain sight and looks great.

$200 at Amazon

The Good

• Hardly any bulk or weight, it’s just a ring
• Multiple chargers in the box
• Looks great

The Bad

• Not a ton of support for different workout types
• Android app is kind of flaky

Motiv Ring What I like

There are two types of fitness tracker people, those who need to see their step count or calorie burn count at all times as a reminder to keep going, and those who look at this information at the end of the day or when they have time. I fit in the latter group. I don’t need a display on my wrist showing me I’m only two walking minutes away from my goal. I want to push myself every day, and then at the end of the day see how well I did. Seeing a constant goal on your wrist makes me less likely to push beyond that goal, or worse encourages me to cheat to reach the goal so I can tell myself it’s cool to be a couch potato for a little while.

Motiv Ring is an engineering feat and a stylish accessory at the same time, which is both rare and fantastic.

In this respect, the Motiv Ring calls to me. I wake up, put it on, and that’s it. When I have time, I’ll check Google Fit on my phone and see how my goals are progressing, but it’s not something in my face at all times. In fact, the only indication you have this ring is ever doing anything other than living on your finger is the occasional subtle LED blink on the far side of the ring or the heart rate monitor on the inner side of the ring. The LED only blinks when it’s communicating with the phone, which you can force by rotating it on your finger (which, to me, is amazing). Motiv made the act of fidgeting with your ring an actual part of the UI, syncing the fitness data it has collected to your phone when you perform this force sync.

The charger used here deserves some love too. I’m usually one of the first to bemoan the use of a proprietary charger, but when you’re designing a gadget in the shape of a ring, you’re pretty limited on options. This charger is a simple USB-A stick with a magnetic end to hold the ring in place, and it works beautifully. But the charger isn’t nearly as clever as Motiv making sure you not only have two chargers in the box, but also making sure one of those chargers has a holster you can clip onto your keyring so it goes with your everywhere.

Perhaps most important, it looks nice. It looks like a ring, especially when it’s on my finger. There’s a slight bump where the heart rate monitor lives, so it’s clear this isn’t your average ring when you see it sitting on a table, but otherwise, there’s no way anyone is going to know you’re wearing a fitness or sleep monitor. That means you can wear it with anything, no worrying about whether the watch strap matches your outfit or whether it’s appropriate to have a fitness tracker peeing out from under your sleeve. I think the Motiv Ring is an engineering feat and a stylish accessory at the same time, which is both rare and fantastic.

Motiv Ring What I don’t like

As cool as it is to have a secret fitness tracker on my finger, the fitness tracker parts of this fitness tracker are a little lacking. It handles step counting great, so walking or running can be automatically counted in the app and correctly labeled. But if you’re doing something like cycling or swimming, there’s a fair bit of manual input needed. Motiv Ring will record the elevated heart rate, but the app presents you with a graph where you manually tell the app what you were doing during that high heart rate period. To Motiv’s credit, there are a lot of options there and it’s fairly easy to do, but the extra steps are a little frustrating if you’re trying to capture an activity with a degree of accuracy.

The Android app needs some work when it comes to stability.

I’m not a fan of the Motiv app in general. This ring has been out for quite a while now, with support for Android phones only recently added, and to be honest, the Android app is kind of unreliable. My initial set up with this ring failed multiple times on multiple phones due to a Bluetooth issue, and any time there’s a software update for the watch I have to try to apply the software update more than once for it to take. I’m a much bigger fan of syncing everything from the Motiv app directly into Google Fit and just using that, which is something Motiv makes very easy. But the Android app itself needs some work when it comes to stability.

This is an incredibly minor thing, but the sizing of the Motiv ring is something I wish I had a little more control over. Motiv sends out a box with a bunch of different plastic rings so you can determine what size you need, and when you make a decision, it ships out that correct size. As a fitting system, this is perfect. It makes sure you are buying the right thing, and works well. But the sizing guide from Motiv doesn’t include half sizes, so my Motiv ring is ever so slightly larger than I’d prefer. It only ever bothers me when I’m on my bike, and the act of squeezing the handlebar exposes the gap between the ring and my finger and feels a little off, but it’s there.

Motiv Ring Should you buy it?

Fitness trackers come in all shapes and sizes for a reason; there’s no such thing as one size fits all. For those who don’t want to broadcast their fitness tracker or who don’t feel the need to constantly check a display to see their fitness progress, Motiv Ring is excellent. It’s comfortable, stylish, and a great basic tracker.

And for $200, you’re getting a surprising amount of technology crammed into a tiny space and a pair of chargers for when you inevitably lose one. Motiv has assembled a quality package well worth the space it takes on your finger.

4
out of 5

Motiv Ring also comes in a Rose Gold if you’re not as excited about the Slate Grey pictured in this review.

See at Amazon

Protect your Note 9 with these Spigen cases

There are case makers that have built up a reputation for quality cases, year after year, model after model. While manufacturers like Otterbox and UAG may be known for their tough, tank-like cases, Spigen has cultivated a repertoire of cases — including the Choice Award-winning Neo Hybrid — that offer style and protection without boxy bulk or breaking the bank.

Best blend of style and substance

Spigen Neo Hybrid Case for Galaxy Note 9

The Neo Hybrid is a two-layer case that’s thinner than most one-layer cases and sports a sophisticated Herringbone texture that’s grippy but still works well with phone grips. 5 color variations are available, from a darling red-and-rose gold Burgundy to an expertly color-matched Ocean Blue.

$17 at Amazon

Shining scuff protection

Spigen Liquid Crystal Case for Galaxy Note 9

Spigen’s thin clear case grips well, hugs every curve of the Note 9’s glass, and costs less than a pizza. The Liquid Crystal line isn’t as quick to show smudges and smears as other clear cases, and the Glitter versions hide smudges and scuffs even better for $2 more.

$11 at Amazon

Kickin’ it old-school

Spigen Tough Armor Case for Galaxy Note 9

The Tough Armor may not be the most cutting-edge case on the block, but it’s hard to argue with the dependability of its classic two-layer construction. There are four cool colors available for the outer polycarbonate shell, and there’s even a kickstand built in to help prop your phone up for an in-flight movie.

$18 at Amazon

Crystal-clear durability

Spigen Ultra Hybrid S Case for Galaxy Note 9

Looking to split the difference between the thin style of the Liquid Crystal and the firm functional protection of the Neo Hybrid? Try the Ultra Hybrid S, which has a polycarbonate back and a flexible bumper that makes it easier to slide the phone in and out as needed. This S version of this case is higher-rated than the normal Ultra Hybrid and sports a kickstand.

$15 at Amazon

Pulling double-duty

Spigen Slim Armor CS Case for Galaxy Note 9

Wallet cases are usually thick leather folios, but Spigen’s Slim Armor CS hides your cash and cards out of sight, out of mind in a hardshell card slot. It can’t hold more than a couple of bills or 2-3 cards, but you’re not showing off your cards and cash every time you use your phone the way folio cases do.

$19 at Amazon

The Neo Hybrid’s two-tone beauty is the perfect blend of slim style and sturdy protection, but the Liquid Crystal Glitter lets the Note 9 shine like the gem it is. No matter what case you’re using with the Galaxy Note 9, you’ll want to grab yourself a Spigen Style Ring POP to help you better grip the Note 9’s large frame and keep it mounted in the car thanks to the Style Ring POP’s magnetic mount compatibility.

Apple Announces ‘iPhone Xs’ and ‘iPhone Xs Max’ With Gold Color, Faster Face ID, and More

Apple today in California officially announced the “iPhone Xs” and “iPhone Xs Max,” the latest iPhone models coming this year. The company confirmed that both models will come in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold color options, with Gold being the new addition to the iPhone XS lineup this year.

The iPhone XS models have the same design as the iPhone X from 2017, with an edge-to-edge OLED display, greatly reduced bezels, and a “notch” that houses the front-facing TrueDepth Camera system. The iPhone XS is the direct iPhone X successor and measures in at 5.8 inches, while the XS Max is Apple’s biggest iPhone yet at 6.5 inches.

Apple mentioned that Face ID technology has also been beefed up, with multiple neural networks and faster algorithms. In the iPhone is the A12 Bionic, the industry’s first 7-nanometer chip.

More information about the iPhones is coming out of the event today, so be sure to check back for more information.

Related Roundup: iPhone XsTag: September 2018 event
Discuss this article in our forums

‘Gather Round’ Leak Roundup: iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, New Apple Watch Sizes, AppleCare ‘Theft and Loss’, and More

In the early hours of the morning, a product sitemap XML file hosted on Apple’s website was shared by AllThingsHow, including URL links that confirmed a handful of previous rumors surrounding the trio of 2018 iPhones and upcoming Apple Watch. Since the leaks came at a fast pace, we’ve rounded up all of the news in one post, so read on for all of the important details about the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and 2018 Apple Watch.

iPhone

The names “iPhone XS,” “iPhone XS Max,” and “iPhone XR” — all previously rumored at some point — were confirmed as the final product names in the sitemap data shared today. iPhone XS is the followup to last year’s iPhone X, measuring in at 5.8 inches and launching in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage capacities. You’ll be able to buy the iPhone XS in Space Gray and Silver, like last year’s iPhone X, and also now in Gold.

Apple is also introducing a new “Plus” style iPhone this year, but it’s ditching the Plus branding for the first time since 2014 and going with “Max” in the iPhone XS Max. This 6.5-inch iPhone will be Apple’s biggest smartphone yet, and come in all of the same storage and color options as its smaller counterpart.

For customers looking to spend less money, the iPhone XR will be the cheaper alternative to the iPhone XS and XS Max. The 6.1-inch model also has the widest variety of color options offered this year: Black, White, Red, Yellow, Coral, and Blue. You’ll be able to buy it in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage capacities.

Here’s the full 2018 iPhone lineup:

• iPhone XS/XS Max storage sizes: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB
• iPhone XS/XS Max colors: Space Gray, Silver, and Gold
• iPhone XR storage sizes: 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB
• iPhone XR colors: Black, White, Red, Yellow, Coral, and Blue

With 18 iPhone XR models and 18 iPhone XS/XS Max models, the total iPhone count for 2018 will be 36 models.

Apple Watch

In one of the biggest surprises from today’s leaks, the upcoming Apple Watch models will be gaining new 40mm and 44mm case sizes. This means that the current 38mm case will increase to 40mm and the 42mm will increase to 44mm, although some links in the sitemap reveal that a few models of the existing sizes will be sticking around.

Since Apple measures the Apple Watch cases vertically, it appears that the new models will be gaining a slight bit of height this year. Although this has caused some to worry about existing bands becoming incompatible with the new Apple Watch, no rumors have yet to suggest that Apple is discontinuing legacy bands for a new style. In fact, notable Apple reporter Mark Gurman has mentioned that the 2018 Apple Watch will be compatible with existing bands numerous times over the past few months.

You’ll be able to buy the 44mm Apple Watch in GPS and GPS + Cellular configurations, with the usual Silver, Space Gray, and Gold aluminum case options. For stainless steel, the sitemap also mentions Silver, Space Black, and Gold options. Bands referenced include White Sport Band, Seashell Sport Loop, Black Sport Band, Black Sport Loop, Sand Sport Band, and Sand Sport Loop.

In 40mm, there’s a few Nike and Hermès options. Hermès includes an Indigo Craie Orange Double Tour band with a Stainless Steel case, and Nike has Pure Platinum Black Sport Band, Summit White Sport Loop, Anthracite Black Sport Band, and Black Sport Loop paired with various aluminum cases.

Of course, these will not be the only Apple Watches available to buy at launch, as you can expect numerous stainless steel cases outside of the Hermès line, as well as some bundles with higher-cost bands. A separate leak today also revealed the front panel for the new Apple Watch, showing off the 15 percent larger display.

Lastly for Apple Watch, the sitemap does not designate the 2018 models as “Series 4,” although it keeps the “Series 3” terminology for the existing models, which Apple will keep around at a lower price point. It’s unclear if this means that Apple is ditching the “Series” branding altogether this year, and if so what the new Apple Watch will be called.

AppleCare

AppleCare is always a reliable announcement alongside the newest iPhones each year, and today’s leaks confirm that you’ll be able to purchase the usual AppleCare+ protection plans for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. This year, AppleCare+ plans also include coverage for “theft and loss,” and will be available for $399.00, as per a Best Buy leak.

Accessories

The sitemap file confirmed a handful of traditional Apple colorways will be making it to this generation of silicone and leather cases for the 2018 iPhones. You’ll be able to buy a silicone case for the iPhone XS and XS Max in Black, White, Midnight Blue, (PRODUCT)Red, and Stone. In leather, the iPhone XS cases will come in (PRODUCT)Red, Taupe, and Black.

The current iPhone X silicone case in Midnight Blue, Black, and (PRODUCT)Red
Given that the information shared was just a peek at the upcoming accessory lines, this is far from every accessory announcement that will be made later today. You can also expect leather cases for the iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR, as well as silicone cases for the cheaper iPhone. The sitemap also includes references to OtterBox cases for the iPhone XS and XS Max.

Missing from “Gather Round”

Amid all of the confirmed upcoming announcements from Apple sourced from the sitemap XML file, there are some notable omissions. It appears that Apple has no plans to announce a new iPad Pro at today’s event. iPad Pro models with Face ID may still show up next month at an event that could also include refreshes to the MacBook Air, Mac mini, iMac, and potentially more.

iPad Pro concept by Álvaro Pabesio
Apple’s long-awaited AirPower charging mat was also nowhere to be found in the sitemap data. It’s been one year since Apple first revealed the AirPower at the iPhone X event in September 2017, with a promised 2018 launch date. AirPower will be able to charge all Qi-compatible iPhones, Apple Watch Series 3 and the new 2018 models, and AirPods.

If AirPower doesn’t make it into the “Gather Round” event today, there’s also less of a chance that Apple will introduce the revamped AirPods, which will come with a new wireless charging case aimed to be paired with AirPower.

We now have just under two hours to go until Apple finally (and officially) announces the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, new Apple Watch, and more at the “Gather Round” event in California. As usual, MacRumors has you covered if you’re interested in following a live blog of the event, which will be posted on our front page ahead of time, with live tweets available on the @MacRumorsLive Twitter account.

Related Roundups: Apple Watch, watchOS 4, watchOS 5, iPhone XsBuyer’s Guide: Apple Watch (Caution)
Discuss this article in our forums

Live Coverage of Apple’s iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and Apple Watch Event

Apple’s “Gather round” event at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park begins at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, where it is widely expected to unveil three new iPhones (XS, XS Max, and XR) as well as new, slightly larger Apple Watch models.

Steve Jobs Theater via Apple CEO Tim Cook
We should also be hearing final details and the official release date for iOS 12, and likely macOS Mojave, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12 as well. And, of course, there may be other announcements and surprises in the cards.

Apple itself leaked a number of details this morning by prematurely updating its store site maps, and we have a summary of what’s been revealed right here.

Apple is providing a live video stream on its website, via the Apple Events app on Apple TV, and on Twitter. We’ve shared instructions on how to watch along with a list of when the keynote starts in time zones around the world.

In addition to Apple’s video stream, we will be updating this article with live blog coverage—no need to refresh—and issuing Twitter updates through our @MacRumorsLive account as the keynote unfolds.

Highlights from the event and separate news stories regarding today’s announcements will go out through our @MacRumors account.

Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with Apple news and rumors.

Apple’s online store is currently down in advance of the event. It should be accessible again shortly after the keynote.

Live Updates – No need to refresh

Loading live updates…

Tag: September 2018 event
Discuss this article in our forums