For Apple, 2024 will be more than just iPhones, will place greater focus on Vision Pro, Watch

In a notable departure from its long-standing iPhone-centric focus, Apple is gearing up for a major dynamic shift in 2024 that will focus the spotlight on its wearables business. The Vision Pro, Apple Watch, and AirPods are set to receive significant attention, signalling a strategic shift for the tech giant, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. While the iPhone remains a crucial part of Apple’s product lineup, slated for an upgrade in the coming year, the company is refraining from major changes to its design. The iPhone 15 will maintain its current design, with the Pro version seeing an increase in screen sizes, and lower-end models incorporating the Action button alongside a new dedicated button for video recording. However, it’s Apple’s wearables business that will be the star of 2024. The Vision Pro, a new category for Apple, is poised to debut alongside substantial upgrades to the AirPods and Apple Watch. With the Vision Pro, AirPods, and Apple Watch taking centre stage, Apple aims to reinvigorate its sales, which have experienced stagnation over the past year. The AirPods lineup is set for a revamp, addressing consumer confusion surrounding the existing models. Apple plans to introduce two new fourth-generation non-Pro models with updated designs, redesigned cases, and USB-C charging. The higher-end version will feature active noise cancellation, offering this sought-after feature at a more accessible price point. In addition to hardware updates, Apple is venturing into the realm of health features. The AirPods Max headphones are expected to undergo a transformation, switching from a Lightning charger to USB-C and potentially introducing new colours. Apple is also developing hearing aid functionality, scheduled for release in the next year, with the potential to disrupt the multibillion-dollar hearing aid industry. Looking ahead to 2025, Apple plans to update the AirPods Pro, emphasizing comfort and exploring features like body temperature and health tracking, still in early development. The Apple Watch is not to be left behind, with plans for at least one model featuring a new look. More significantly, Apple is working on health features targeting hypertension and sleep apnea detection, potentially marking a turning point in smartwatch capabilities. The Vision Pro, Apple’s ambitious foray into augmented reality, is set to take the stage in 2024. Despite limited revenue expectations initially, Apple is optimistic about the headset’s potential, drawing parallels to the evolution of the Apple Watch. In the software arena, iOS 17.3 introduces a security feature to deter iPhone thieves, limiting access to crucial features in case of theft. Meanwhile, Apple continues its battle against iMessage on Android, maintaining tight control over its messaging software but facing calls to release an official iMessage app for the Android platform. As Apple prepares for these substantial updates and releases, industry analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the company’s performance in the current fiscal year, anticipating a boost from its diversified product offerings. With the Vision Pro on the horizon and significant advancements across its wearable lineup, Apple aims to captivate consumers and reignite excitement in the tech sphere. (With inputs from agencies)