iPhone 16's New Camera Button, Apple Intelligence's Limited Rollout, More: 4 Key Takeaways From Apple 'Glowtime' Launch Event

Apple's new AI-powered functionality, branded as Apple Intelligence, won't be coming to iPhone 16 users across the world instantly.

Apple has launched its latest iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models, showcasing upgraded internal components and enhanced camera capabilities while retaining a design similar to the previous generation. The tech giant also introduced its revamped AirPods and Apple Watch Series 10, highlighting new AI-driven Apple Intelligence features set to debut soon.

Here are the top takeaways from Apple's 'Glowtime' event:

iPhone Gets A Dedicated Camera Button

No one might have asked for it, but Apple delivered all the same. The latest iPhone 16 series introduces a physical camera button, offering users greater control over photography. 

While some might consider this unnecessary, this author is indeed low-key excited over the new feature. I always use volume buttons to click photos on my phone, be it an iPhone or a Pixel. Having a dedicated button that will not only control the shutter, but also offer access to zoom and mode functions does sound handy. 

Apple Intelligence Not For All (Yet)

Apple's new AI-powered functionality, branded as Apple Intelligence, will initially launch in the US next month and gradually expand to other regions.

This feature runs multiple generative AI models directly on the iPhone, with more complex computations handled by Apple’s custom-designed cloud servers.

Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized how Apple Intelligence would enhance the new iPhone 16 series by integrating advanced generative models to perform tasks directly on the device. Initially available only for the iPhone 15 Pro models, this technology is now set to enhance the iPhone 16 experience as well.

The AI functionality extends to everyday tasks, such as summarizing emails, prioritizing notifications, and improving Siri’s responsiveness to vague commands. Users will also be able to create custom emojis, generate images using the Image Playground feature, and search for specific images or moments within videos through descriptive inputs.

AirPods, Your New Hearing Aid

This was mighty considerate of Apple. The updated AirPods now come with a more comfortable design, and hearing aid capabilities, which is one of those seemingly simple Apple innovations that stand a chance to go a long way as more OEMs start picking up the new feature.

The new AirPods also comes with a compact charging case, enhancing user experience and convenience.

Apple Watch Series 10 To Help Sleep Better

The latest Apple Watch is thinner, features a brighter display, and offers faster charging.

Just like the hearing aid feature on AirPods, Apple Watch 10 also introduces advanced health features such as sleep apnea detection and a premium titanium model option.