iPhone 16

Apple announced the new iPhone 16 today, which was a bit unusual since their annual event typically doesn’t happen on a Monday (usually Tuesday). Still, it was enjoyable to watch, with plenty of new features. We don't need groundbreaking "innovation" every year (and maybe no more), and this event had its share of interesting updates. Here are a few of my personal takeaways:

• The active noise canceling on the new AirPods 4 with an open-ear design is intriguing. I’m curious to see how well it sounds, actually.
• The absence of AirPods Max 2 was a bit disappointing, although now we have USB-C support (and who cares about new colors?).
• It’s impressive that the AirPods Pro now offer hearing health features.
• Satellite sharing for photos and videos should be useful, especially in the US.
• The new camera controls should significantly enhance the overall photo-taking experience.

That’s it. I’m not sure I’ll be purchasing anything from today’s announcements (maybe just the new Titanium Milanese Loop for my current Apple Watch someday).

What stood out to me, though, is Apple's focus on features like satellite messaging and hearing health. Lately, Apple sometimes seems to be taking on a more public-service role, introducing things that may not be major moneymakers but definitely improve people's lives. Some might argue that Apple is "sherlocking" other companies, but if the market for those services was that promising, a first mover would have already dominated. I appreciate that Apple is still doing some things that genuinely make the world a better place, whether it is only for marketing or not.