Apple Unveils AI-Powered iPhone 16 Amidst Huawei Competition

Apple introduced its AI-enhanced iPhone 16, along with updated Watches and AirPods, at a recent event. However, the launch faced competition from Huawei's new tri-fold phone, which has already received over 3 million pre-orders in China. Apple's move to integrate AI features aims to boost sales amidst declining iPhone demand.

Apple has pulled back the curtain on its AI-enhanced iPhone 16 alongside updates to its Watches and AirPods, during a major event today. However, Huawei's unofficial announcement of its Z-shaped tri-fold phone, which has already garnered over 3 million pre-orders, threatened to overshadow the tech giant's showcase.

The new Series 10 Watch, starting at $399, features a 30% larger screen and enhanced capabilities for sports and health monitoring, including sleep apnea detection. Additionally, Apple launched the more rugged Watch Ultra 2 and redesigned AirPods 4, with improved comfort and acoustics, but all eyes were on the AI features in the forthcoming iPhone 16.

Apple Intelligence, the company's generative AI platform introduced last June, is set to feature in both the iPhone 16 and some iPhone 15 models. However, delays in software updates mean that users may not see these features until later this year or early next. With fierce competition from Google's AI-focused Pixel smartphones, the race is on to deliver the most compelling AI assistant experience.

(With inputs from agencies.)