2378
2016-12-15
If you thought Apple's last couple of years were big, just wait for 2017. The launch of the large-screen iPhone 6 and 6 Plus in late 2014 sent Apple's fortunes soaring. Apple became the most profitible company in the world, and the following year, with the 6S and 6S Plus, was even bigger. But enthusiasm waned in 2016 -- iPhone unit sales fell for the first time since the device hit the market in 2007.
For Apple, this past year was largely a time for refinements, not entirely new markets. But 2017 could be a completely different story. If all the rumors about the company's product lines are true, next year could be Apple's biggest -- ever. Think radically redesigned iPhones, revamped iPads and new product categories. And 2017 could be a big year for software and services, too. Here's what we could see from Apple next year.
We've just been through three years of the same-looking iPhone. The iPhone7 and 7 Plus are water-resistant and boast better cameras, but they're no longer a must-have upgrade. The 10-year anniversary of the first iPhone comes next year, and there's speculation that Apple could release a major new design.
Redesigned Apple Watch
Apple doesn't reveal how many Apple Watches it has sold, but IDC estimated the company shipped 1.1 million units in the third quarter, which included only a couple weeks of Apple Watch Series 2 sales. The firm said that "Apple's success will likely be muted as the smartwatch category continues to be challenged." Apple in 2017 is expected to make the first design changes to the Apple Watch since it introduced the device last year. It has failed for a patent for a watch with a circular display, but it's unclear whether such a device could go on sale in 2017. Likely changes include better screens, new health-focused sensors and cellular connectivity that lets you use the watch without your phone.
Apple's next big wearable may be something worn on the face. A report said the company is working on smart galsses that would connect wirelessly to an iPhone, displaying images and other information to the wearer. But seeing this device next year could be a stretch; it's reportedly still in the exploration phase.
AR, VR push
As for virtual reality, less is known about Apple's ambitions. The company likely is exploring the tech that's gotten the attention of Samsung, Facebook and Google, but it's unclear what its plans are for the market.
Apple's iPad line hasn't sold well for the past couple of years. The company has been counting on its Pro line -- with optional detachable keyboard case and stylus -- to revitalize demand, but so far, iPad Pros haven't stemmed the two-year drop in iPad unit sales.
Reports say iPads could be in for big changes in 2017, some of which are similar to rumors of iPhone changes. Apple may get rid of the home button and minimize the bezels around the iPad screen. And some reports say Apple will introduce a new 10.5-inch iPad Pro(joining the 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch versions it has now, though reports vary on the actual size of the new device). There's also talk the company could finally update its iPad Mini with a new 7.9-inch model in the spring.
Apple's computer line seemed like the forgotten child in its family of products. Some devices, like the Mac Pro, haven't been updated in years. Apple revamped its laptop line in late 2016, so 2017 could finally see some new desktop designs.
One area that's gotten some attention from Apple -- but will likely get a lot more in 2017 -- is the smart home. Apple's HomeKit software lets you control things like smart locks and lights from your iPhone or Apple Watch. Expect to see companies releasing HomeKit-compatible devices next year.
There haven't been many rumors about new software and services from Apple, but 2017 could be a year when the company makes a bigger push outside its traditional hardware stronghold.
Source: cnet
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