Introducing Rumor Replay, a weekly feature on DMN that offers a concise summary of the latest Apple product rumors, along with insights and commentary. In this edition: news on Apple’s smart doorbell initiative, updates on AirPods Pro, compatibility for iOS 19 devices, and much more. Here are this week’s Apple rumors.
Apple’s smart home doorbell
According to recent reports by Mark Gurman, Apple has a plethora of new Home devices set to launch in 2025, including an innovative smart doorbell.
It is said that Apple’s doorbell will work harmoniously with smart locks, potentially including one in the package. This doorbell is expected to authenticate users with Face ID allowing automatic unlocking of the door upon verification.
My takeaways
I have always believed that Apple should place greater importance on smart home technology. I welcome every new Home product from the company. Previously, we heard rumors about an Apple security camera slated for 2026, and a smart doorbell seems like a logical addition utilizing much of the same camera technology.
Even for those who are not inclined to invest in premium Apple smart home devices, this expansion likely means improvements in HomeKit, Matter, and the Apple Home app, benefiting every user in the smart home sector.
AirPods Pro 3 and beyond
This week, Mark Gurman revealed several insights regarding Apple’s upcoming AirPods Pro 3 and future iterations. The newest features under development include:
- Heart rate monitoring, akin to the capabilities of the Apple Watch
- Temperature measurement, focusing on health aspects
- Integrated cameras, likely designed for AI functionalities
Gurman anticipates that heart rate monitoring will be available for AirPods Pro 3, while the other features might be introduced later.
My takeaways
The recent iOS 18.1 update for AirPods Pro 2 significantly enhanced their utility in daily life, with features like Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection encouraging more frequent use. The forthcoming features appear to carry on that trend.
If AirPods begin to provide more health-related data, users will have strong incentives to keep them handy. Furthermore, with built-in cameras capable of analyzing surroundings, AirPods may soon become indispensable.
iOS and iPadOS 19 supported models
The well-regarded leaker iPhoneSoft has provided details on the models compatible with the upcoming iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 updates. The information indicates that all iPhone models currently running iOS 18 will also support iOS 19.
On the iPad side, the outlook is similarly optimistic. The only iPad that will not be compatible with iPadOS 19 is the 7th-generation base iPad, which uses the A10 chip.
My takeaways
It is impressive that Apple will manage to extend support for the same lineup of iPhones for another year. However, I am curious whether iOS 19 will follow the trend of this year by restricting more features to solely newer devices.
For instance, I expect a number of new Apple Intelligence features in iOS 19, which will likely necessitate an iPhone 15 Pro or newer model. As more aspects of iOS shift toward AI functionality, it might be technically feasible to maintain support for older models while effectively limiting features for them.
iPad 11
Apple’s base model iPad is due for an update. An anonymous source that has a strong track record of leaks has indicated that the 11th generation iPad is anticipated to launch in early 2025. This new device is expected to operate on iPadOS 18.3.
Details are limited, but a faster chip and support for Apple Intelligence are among the key anticipated upgrades.
My takeaways
iPadOS 18.3 is expected to roll out around early February, making it plausible for the new iPad to launch then. A March debut alongside the iPhone SE 4 and additional products wouldn’t be surprising.
Regardless, the base iPad is currently the only model lacking an update in 2024, so a timely upgrade would be beneficial.
Which of these Apple rumors captures your interest the most? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
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