Introducing Rumor Replay, a new weekly segment at DMN that offers a concise overview of the latest Apple product speculations, accompanied by my insights and reflections. Today we cover: the Apple Television, potential upgrades for AirTag 2, iPhone 17 snippets, and a new Pro Display XDR.
Let’s dive into this week’s Apple rumors.
Apple Television
For years, speculation surrounding an Apple TV set has persisted, and it’s resurfaced as Mark Gurman reported that Apple is ‘exploring’ the possibility of creating such a device as part of its revitalized focus on home products.
I firmly believe that Apple should venture into the TV market, perhaps naming it simply Apple Television to differentiate it from the Apple TV app, the Apple TV 4K box, and the Apple TV+ service.
Will Apple actually do this? The answer hinges on the forthcoming ‘HomePad’ discussed in my previous article. If the HomePad proves to be a significant success, establishing a viable home product line for Apple, launching a TV set would be a natural progression. Conversely, if it turns out to be just another niche product like the initial HomePod or Apple TV 4K, the Apple Television may remain on the back burner longer.
AirTag 2 introduces three enhancements
Reports indicate that Apple aims to release the AirTag 2 in mid-2025, following the original’s launch four years prior. The new model is expected to feature three major upgrades that Mark Gurman claims will enhance “range, reinforce the onboard wireless chip, and boost privacy.”
I recently discussed how the privacy aspect will be particularly crucial. The introduction of an AirTag successor inevitably brings into focus the ongoing challenges Apple faces regarding privacy and stalking concerns related to the device.
That said, barring significant privacy enhancements, I’m uncertain how Apple can make AirTag 2 anything more than a modest, incremental update. The expected improvements in range and wireless capabilities seem essential and should enable better precision tracking. However, overall, despite years of anticipated development, AirTag operates more as a basic utility; thus, minor adjustments are likely to be welcomed but not groundbreaking.
Insights on the iPhone 17
Analyst Jeff Pu has shared a range of predictions for the upcoming iPhone 17 series. Notably, he anticipates that the iPhone 17 lineup will feature:
- a more intricate aluminum design compared to the iPhone 16 series
- a new production method for the A19 and A19 Pro chips
- a narrower Dynamic Island feature exclusive to the 17 Pro Max
He also emphasizes that the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air is projected to measure roughly 6mm in thickness.
His report raises several questions. What does ‘more intricate’ mean in terms of aluminum design? Why is the smaller Dynamic Island limited to the Pro Max instead of also being available on the 17 Pro, especially considering both models are expected to include the same TrueDepth camera?
With approximately 10 months left until the official unveiling of the iPhone 17 series, there is plenty of time for clarification and answers to emerge.
Pro Display XDR 2
Finally, display analyst Ross Young has noted that the quantum dot technology utilized in the M4 MacBook Pro is expected to be incorporated into the next iteration of the Pro Display XDR as well.
Given that it has been nearly two years since we last heard about a new Pro Display XDR, Young’s comments are significant despite their brevity.
If Apple plans to unveil a successor to the 2019 Pro Display XDR, 2025 seems to be an opportune year, as both the new M4 Mac Studio and Mac Pro are slated for that same year, creating an excellent pairing for a refreshed Apple display.
Which of these rumors excites you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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