18/10/2021

Key Apple autumn 2021 announcements
The Apple event from yesterday has just passed, and the next one is already around the corner. Although nothing has been officially confirmed, it’s highly likely that another Apple event will take place in October. There are still a few developments that we know Apple is working on, but haven’t been announced yet, nor have any release dates been set. The main focus of the annual event this past September was the new iPhone. Four different versions of the iPhone 13 were revealed: the standard model, the Pro, the Pro Max, and the mini. Additionally, attention was also given to the Apple Watch Series 7, the new iPad mini, and the 9th generation iPad. But of course, Apple has more ongoing projects. Here’s what we expect from the October Apple event:
iPad 2021 (9th generation)
The new iPad comes equipped with the latest technology. With the fastest A13 Bionic chip, you can now switch between screens and apps even faster. While this chip is indeed faster than those in older iPads, you might not really notice much difference. Additionally, the front camera has received a significant update. Unlike the 1.2MP camera on the 2020 iPad, the 2021 iPad now has a 12MP camera. The rear camera remains largely the same as the previous model. A big plus for many is that the entry-level model now comes with 64GB of storage, compared to just 32GB in previous versions. The screen remains at 10.2 inches, just like the previous model, and this iPad is only compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation).
iPad mini 6 (2021)
The iPad mini 6 is faster than its predecessors, equipped with the A15 Bionic chip. Besides being faster, the 2021 iPad mini also has a new design, with an all-screen display. What’s also new is that Touch-ID has been integrated into the top of the iPad, allowing you to unlock it with your fingerprint. The front camera has also received a solid update, with a 12MP ultra-wide front camera. The rear camera also boasts 12MP and is a wide-angle lens. Additionally, this iPad mini can be connected to the Apple Pencil 2. If these new features aren’t of interest to you, you might consider purchasing an earlier generation refurbished iPad mini.
iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
Apple has introduced no fewer than four different versions of the iPhone 13. The standard iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 mini both feature sharper and brighter displays. Additionally, the iPhone 13 (mini) includes an improved chip and a slightly better camera than its predecessor. The storage capacities of these models have also been upgraded, starting now at 128GB instead of 64GB. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max also feature an improved chip, the A15 Bionic chip, and better cameras. You can now order an iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max with up to 1TB of storage. All iPhones come in new colors and offer longer battery life. The iPhone 13 is priced starting at €909. This is, of course, quite expensive, and it’s debatable whether the specifications are really that much better. You can purchase a refurbished iPhone 12 from us, which is as good as new, for hundreds of euros less, allowing you to save a lot of money and still get an iPhone with excellent specs.
macOS Monterey
The new macOS update is set to roll out on October 25, 2021. This will be the 12th update of macOS. Not all MacBooks will be able to support this update. For instance, a MacBook Air from 2015 (or newer) is required to install this update. Similarly, a MacBook Pro from the same year or newer is needed for the update to be successful.
The most important innovations are:
- Safari browser upgraded to version 15;
- FaceTime now supports blurred backgrounds;
- SharePlay, allowing you to watch content together with others via FaceTime;
- Universal Control, enabling the use of your mouse, keyboard, or touchpad across other Apple devices;
- Airplay: wirelessly cast your screen to another Apple device.
Can’t update to macOS 12 Monterey | Can update to macOS 12 Monterey | |
MacBook 12" | 2015 model | 2016 model and newer |
MacBook Air | 2013/2014 models | 2015 model and newer |
MacBook Pro | 2013/2014 models | 2015 model and newer |
Mac mini | early 2014 model | late 2014 model and newer |
iMac Pro | - | All |
Mac Pro | - | 2013 and newer |