Apple’s Far Out event is over and we all have a week or two before preorders open. That means we can sit back and consider whether a new iPhone, Apple Watch or set of AirPods Pro are in our new future.
The new gear at a glance
| IPhone | AirPods Pro | Apple Watch | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Products | iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max | AirPods Pro Series 2 | Apple Watch Series 8 Apple Watch SE Apple Watch Ultra |
| Cost | From $1,399 From $1,579 From $1,749 From $1,899 | $399 | From $629 From $399 From $1,299 |
| Pros | Updated cameras and Photonic Engine Pro models gets new A16 processor, others get older CPU with an extra processor core | Hew H1 chip, better noise cancellation, Spatial Audio tuning | Series 8 and SE evolutionary update. Ultra is ruggedised, better battery life, bigger screen |
| More details | Apple debuts four new iPhones at Far Out event | Apple AirPods Pro get new H2 chip | Apple gets adventurous with new watches |
Deciding on an iPhone upgrade
When a new model of almost anything we have is released, there can be a temptation to want to upgrade because new is always better. Right? While that may be the case, the question to ask is whether the cost of upgrading is worth paying.
iPhone 14
If you have an iPhone 13 and it’s working, there’s probably no reason to jump in and upgrade. The processor update is incremental, the form factor is unchanged and there’s little to distinguish it. The main improvement comes in the camera department. But unless you’re dissatisfied with your current photos, I can really see a compelling reason to update.
IPhone 12 owners – I think it’s largely the same argument although the processor and camera improvements are more significant. Again, if you’re happy, perhaps the iPhone 15, which will be released this time next year, is probably a better bet.
Owners of older iPhones – it’s time to think about an update. We’re getting to the point where software updates will soon leave you behind.
IPhone 14 Pro
The same sorts of arguments apply here as above with one caveat. If you’re looking for a significant boost and are running an iPhone 12 or 13, then the new iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max represent a pretty massive leap forward. Of course, there’s a substantial price to be paid for the upgrade.
The new camera tech, A16 processor and removal of the infamous notch are a step forward.
Budget options for owners of older iPhones
The good news is that if you own an older iPhone – and I know plenty of people still using iPhones 6 and iPhone 7 – Apple is still selling the iPhone 12 and 13 as well as the budget model iPhone SE. All three are good smartphones that will give you at least three years of service. And, as Apple has retained them in its range, that means we can expect them to supported with software updates for a while longer although you may not enjoy all the new features that come with future updates to iOS.
Upgrading your AirPods
It’s been a couple of years since Apple last updated the AirPods. My experience, and that of other people I speak to, is that battery power starts to fade after a couple of years of frequent use. And with Work From Home now part of everyday life, we’ve been using our AirPods more and more.
My advice, if you purchased your AirPods more than two years ago – it’s time to consider an update.
Do you need a new Apple Watch?
If you’re running anything older than an Apple Watch Series 4, it’s time to upgrade. The newest version of watchOS, which will be released in just a few days, won’t work on Apple Watch Series 3. That suggest the Series 4 is nearing end of support.
If you have a Series 5 or later, you can probably wait another year, unless the new temperature sensor is important to you. If you have a Series 4, you also get the ECG functionality, making the shift more compelling.
I have to admit some personal excitement for the new Apple Watch Ultra. As a trail runner with a special skill for getting lost, the ability to track back, the warning siren and improved battery life are huge benefits. I’ve already kicked off my pre-order through Apple’s business customer service.
