Apple’s 2024 product lineup has just landed, and, as always, the tech giant is claiming to have reinvented the wheel. With the release of the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 2, AirPods 4, and more, Apple enthusiasts have a lot to get excited about. But let’s face it – are these new releases truly groundbreaking, or just incremental improvements dressed up with a shiny marketing bow?
Let’s break down each new product and give them an honest review, along with a score out of 10 to help you decide if they’re worth upgrading to.
iPhone 16 Pro – Refined Power, but Is It a Game-Changer?
Hello, Apple Intelligence. That's the tagline for the iPhone 16 Pro, which suggests that this device is all about smart performance and optimization. Let’s see if the iPhone 16 Pro brings anything new to the table.
Design & Display
The iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t stray too far from Apple’s traditional design language. It maintains the titanium build that was introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro, which feels sleek, light, and sturdy. The screen remains the Super Retina XDR OLED display we know and love, but with higher peak brightness, making outdoor viewing a breeze even in harsh sunlight.
However, let’s be real – the design changes are minor. Sure, it’s elegant, but it’s not groundbreaking.
Camera
The iPhone 16 Pro's camera system introduces an upgraded 48MP main sensor and a 7x optical zoom (up from 5x in the 15 Pro Max). Apple is focusing heavily on photography and videography enhancements, particularly in low-light conditions and with improved portrait modes. Night mode has been improved to reduce noise, and the overall sharpness is fantastic. For video, you now get 4K recording at 60fps with better stabilization.
Performance
Equipped with the A18 Bionic chip, the iPhone 16 Pro promises snappier performance and more efficient battery management. Gamers and multitaskers will appreciate the fluidity of apps, particularly with ProMotion tech boosting the refresh rate. Battery life also sees a slight bump, offering a full day’s use under heavy workload, but it’s not a massive leap from the iPhone 15.
Overall Verdict
The iPhone 16 Pro is a stellar device, no doubt. However, for those coming from the iPhone 15 Pro, the upgrades may feel marginal. But if you're still holding onto an older model, this is a very worthy upgrade with excellent camera performance, display quality, and smooth software.
Score: 8.5/10
iPhone 16 – Great Performance at a Lower Price
For those not wanting to fork out a grand for the iPhone 16 Pro, the standard iPhone 16 provides a solid middle ground. While it doesn’t pack quite the same punch as the Pro model, it’s no slouch.
Design & Display
The iPhone 16 retains the familiar design of previous models with a Ceramic Shield front and aluminium sides, which make it durable and aesthetically pleasing. The display is slightly less advanced than the Pro version, featuring a Super Retina XDR display without the high-end ProMotion feature. However, it’s still vibrant, bright, and great for media consumption.
Camera
The camera system on the iPhone 16 includes dual lenses with a 48MP main sensor and ultra-wide lens. It doesn’t have the same zoom capabilities as the Pro, but for everyday photography, it’s still fantastic. Apple’s computational photography has never been better, with Smart HDR producing more accurate skin tones and dynamic range in tricky lighting situations.
Performance
With the A17 chip, the iPhone 16 handles everyday tasks with ease, from social media scrolling to light gaming and video editing. Battery life is solid, easily lasting through a full day of typical use.
Overall Verdict
For those who don’t need the pro-level bells and whistles, the iPhone 16 is a fantastic option that saves you a few hundred pounds without sacrificing performance where it really matters.
Score: 8/10
Apple Watch Series 10 – Thinner, Smarter, and More Customisable
The Apple Watch Series 10 builds on its predecessor, the Series 9, but adds some nice upgrades to keep it fresh in a crowded smartwatch market.
Design & Display
The Series 10 is thinner than any previous models, which makes it much more comfortable for all-day wear. The display has been slightly improved, offering a brighter, sharper always-on display that’s more readable in sunlight. But while the design has slimmed down, it remains similar to previous generations.
Performance & Features
The watch is powered by a new S10 chip, which promises faster performance and more accurate health tracking. Apple has also introduced a more advanced Double Tap gesture control, which now feels more responsive and intuitive. Whether it’s answering calls or switching between apps, the watch performs smoothly.
Health Tracking
Health tracking remains best-in-class. The ECG, blood oxygen, and sleep tracking features have been refined, providing more accurate data. Apple has also improved the fitness metrics, giving runners and athletes more detailed information. Still, no major new health sensors were introduced.
Overall Verdict
While the thinner design and faster performance are welcome updates, the Apple Watch Series 10 doesn’t revolutionize the smartwatch game. It’s a polished, highly functional upgrade for anyone with an older Apple Watch (Series 8 or earlier), but not a must-have for Series 9 owners.
Score: 7.5/10
Apple Watch Ultra 2 – The Adventurer's Best Friend
For those who demand durability and extreme fitness features, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 delivers in spades. This is Apple’s smartwatch built for adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Design & Durability
The Ultra 2 maintains the rugged titanium body that its predecessor introduced. It’s designed for extreme conditions, from diving to hiking in harsh environments. The 49mm display is large, bright, and easier to read in direct sunlight, which is a must for outdoor use.
Performance
The Ultra 2 is powered by the same S10 chip found in the Series 10, so performance is as zippy as ever. Battery life is where the Ultra 2 really shines – you can get up to 36 hours on a single charge, and up to 72 hours in low-power mode, making it perfect for weekend adventures without worrying about recharging.
Features
With GPS accuracy, dual-frequency support, and new software improvements, the Ultra 2 provides advanced tracking for serious athletes. Apple has also improved the depth gauge and added more customizable action buttons for easy access to workout modes and emergency services.
Overall Verdict
If you live an active lifestyle, the Ultra 2 is the smartwatch to beat. It’s not cheap, but for athletes or adventurers, this is an investment worth making. Casual users might not need all the extra features, but for those who push their physical limits, it’s perfect.
Score: 9/10
AirPods 4 – Slightly Better, but Is That Enough?
The AirPods 4 are Apple’s latest entry-level earbuds, offering modest improvements over the AirPods 3. They introduce USB-C charging (like the new iPhones) and slightly better sound quality.
Design & Comfort
The design remains largely the same – simple, elegant, and comfortable for extended listening sessions. Apple hasn’t changed much in terms of looks, but the fit is secure, and they’re light enough to wear for hours without discomfort.
Sound Quality
Apple promises better sound with enhanced bass and clarity. In real-world use, there’s a noticeable improvement, but it’s not a game-changer. Spatial Audio is still here, and it does add an immersive feel to certain tracks, particularly in Dolby Atmos.
Battery Life
Battery life is decent, offering up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
Overall Verdict
The AirPods 4 are a solid upgrade, but they’re not revolutionary. If you already own the AirPods 3, there’s little reason to upgrade unless you absolutely need USB-C compatibility. Still, for new buyers, they remain a great option.
Score: 7.5/10
AirPods Pro 2 – A Familiar Powerhouse in Sound
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 get a refresh with the new USB-C charging case and a slight improvement in Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Design & Comfort
Nothing has changed here in terms of design – the AirPods Pro 2 remain sleek and comfortable. They’re ideal for long listening sessions and offer a snug fit that ensures ANC works optimally.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is where these earbuds shine. Apple’s ANC is top-tier, blocking out most background noise and making them perfect for travel or busy environments. The transparency mode is also excellent, allowing you to be aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Battery Life
Battery life remains strong at 6 hours of playback time with ANC on, and the USB-C case provides up to 30 hours of total listening time.
Overall Verdict
The AirPods Pro 2 are an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality and ANC. If you own the original AirPods Pro 2, upgrading just for USB-C might not be worth it, but new buyers will love these.
Score: 8.5/10
AirPods Max – Still the King of Premium Over-Ear Headphones
Apple’s AirPods Max remain unchanged but now come in five fresh colours. Known for their incredible sound and luxury design, the Max is Apple’s most premium audio product.
Sound Quality
As always, the AirPods Max deliver astounding sound quality, with deep bass, clear mids, and pristine highs. ANC is just as powerful as it was on release, and Spatial Audio makes movies and music sound immersive and dynamic.
Comfort & Design
The design is luxurious, with memory foam ear cups that fit like a glove. They might be a bit heavy for some users, but they feel premium and look stunning. With new colour options, Apple is banking on style-conscious users wanting a match for their aesthetic.
Battery Life
With 20 hours of battery life and excellent ANC, the AirPods Max still hold their ground as one of the top choices for audiophiles who don’t mind the high price tag.
Overall Verdict
If you're an audiophile and love Apple products, the AirPods Max are still the best in class. However, for those not willing to pay the premium price, there are more affordable competitors with similar sound quality.
Score: 8.5/10
Final Verdict: The 2024 Apple Lineup Delivers, but Not Without Caveats
Apple’s 2024 product lineup offers some fantastic upgrades across the board, but nothing here is earth-shattering. The iPhone 16 Pro and Watch Ultra 2 stand out as the most significant improvements, while the AirPods 4 and Watch Series 10 feel like more iterative updates.
If you’re heavily invested in Apple’s ecosystem, you’ll find something to love in each of these products. But for those with last year’s models, upgrading may not feel essential unless you’re after specific new features.
Overall Score: 8/10
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This article was originally published on 23 Sept 2024. Product specifications, prices and availability may have changed. We sometimes receive review products and may earn commission through affiliate links. We are not obliged to publish a positive review. About our reviews and disclosures.
