iPhone 5 launch event: Five other things we want to see

The Gadget Show  Tuesday 11 September 2012

At six o’clock on Wednesday evening, we’re expecting Apple CEO Tim Cook to step on stage at a press conference in San Francisco and reveal the iPhone 5 to the world.

We’re expecting big things from Apple’s sixth-generation smartphone, including a larger screen, new look design and revamped software. But Cook may have “one more thing” up his sleeve – or even more than that. Here are five other things to look out for at Apple’s iPhone 5 launch event.

The iPad Mini

At this point, we’re pretty sure a new, smaller iPad Mini is coming before Christmas. The Wall Street Journal says it’s confirmed it: all that remains to be seen is whether Apple outs it alongside the iPhone 5 or at another event in October. Either way, expect a lower price slate with all the power of iOS 6, designed to take on the Google Nexus 7 and new Kindle Fire HD directly. Gadget Show probability rating: 75%

A new iPod touch

Apple traditionally updates its iPod line up every September, but this year more than ever, the music players that started it all need a refresh. Last year’s upgrade was a mild one: just a white version of the fourth-generation iPod touch, and an iPod nano with some slightly rejigged software. This year though rumours are flying that the iPod touch will mirror the iPhone 5’s improvements: that means a faster processor and larger four inch display, with perhaps a sharper camera along for the ride too. Gadget Show probability rating: 85%

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New Apple headphones

While the source isn’t solid, last week’s supposed leak of new look Apple headphones seems perfectly timed and highly probable. Apple’s bundled headphones have stayed the same for years, and they’re showing their age as Apple moves away from plastic white for its designs. They also sound like hot mess, so a new look and hopefully improved sound quality will be music to Apple fans’ ears everywhere. Gadget Show probability rating: 60%

More AirPlay magic

Apple’s AirPlay network tech already makes streaming media around your home just about as easy as it possibly could be, but the Telegraph’s sources say it’s about to get even smarter still. Apple is allegedly working on AirPlay Direct, which would create an ad hoc Wi-Fi network just between two Apple devices for streaming – so your router and hard-to-remember Wi-Fi password needn’t be involved at all. The report did not confirm that the tech would be announced on Wednesday, but given the iOS theme, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if it was. Gadget Show probability rating:

iTunes radio

Last but not least, we could see an unexpected addition to iTunes on Wednesday – and no, don’t worry, it’s not a pointless Ping update. Both the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times say that Apple is working on a potentially free streaming radio service much like Pandora or Nokia Music, which would generate a playlist of songs it thinks you’ll like based on your tastes. That could be a real selling point, especially for new iPods: imagine a new iPod shuffle which loads with all the music you could ever need as soon as you turn it on. Gadget Show probability rating: 30%

What would you like to see most? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below.

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