Welcome to our monthly Apple News Roundup. This column recaps the top 10 most significant Apple news announcements from each month, giving you a glance at all the headlines you need to know. This edition features the highlights from March 2023.
1. New spring colors arrive for iPhone cases and watch bands
Apple launched fresh spring colors for its new iPhone 14 silicone cases and several Apple Watch bands. The iPhone cases run $49 and are available in Canary Yellow, Olive, Sky, and Iris. The Apple Watch bands have a range of new finishes and are available in Sprout Green, Canary Yellow, Olive, Purple Fog, Bright Orange, and Sky. Visit Apple’s website to check out all of the new colors.
2. Introducing a new yellow iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus
Coinciding with the launch of spring colors for iPhone cases and watch bands, Apple also introduced a new yellow color for iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus. This beautiful yellow addition boasts incredible battery life, a dual-camera system for pro-level photos and videos, and groundbreaking safety capabilities. The new yellow iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus became available for pre-order on March 10.
3. Investors approve Tim Cook’s $50 million pay cut
During Apple’s annual shareholder meeting on March 10, investors approved Tim Cook’s $50 million pay cut. The meeting was held virtually and according to Bloomberg, Apple investors “reelected its board and approved the compensation plan.” Cook’s target compensation is $49 million, a reduction of 40% from 2022. Apple also showcased several videos highlighting its current lineup of products during the meeting.
4. Introducing Shop with a Specialist over Video
As of March 14, Apple customers in the U.S. can now connect with an Apple Specialist over video while shopping the iPhone lineup. This new experience is available on apple.com and provides a secure one-way video shopping session. In addition to browsing the latest models, customers can explore new features, learn about Apple Trade In offers, various financing options, and more.
5. Worldwide Developers Conference returns June 5
Apple announced that it will host its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 5 through 9, 2023. The entire conference will be available online for developers, with an in-person experience at Apple Park on June 5. WWDC23 will spotlight the latest iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS announcements. “WWDC23 is going to be our biggest and most exciting yet, and we can’t wait to see many of you online and in person at this very special event!”, said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations.
6. Apple TV+ to spend $1 billion yearly on theatrical releases
Apple is reportedly looking to make more original films, and partner with studios to distribute them with extended theatrical runs. According to Bloomberg, Apple Original Films aims to spend $1 billion per year on “blockbuster movies”. The money would be spent on releasing the films in thousands of movie theaters. This may also give Apple TV+ a chance to win more awards.
7. Apple lends Globalstar funds for satellite-enabled iPhones
Apple is lending $252 million to Globalstar, a satellite operator, to help cover upfront costs for replenishing its low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation. The funds will be provided as prepayment for using the network to upgrade satellite services for its latest iPhone — connecting with one of Globalstar’s 24 satellites for emergency services outside of cellular coverage.
8. Introducing Apple Pay Later
On March 28, Apple introduced Apple Pay Later to allow consumers to pay for purchases over time. With Apple Pay, users can split purchases into four payments over six weeks with zero interest and no fees. This new feature makes it easy for users to track, manage, and repay their Apple Pay Later loans all within Apple Wallet. “Many people are looking for flexible payment options, which is why we’re excited to provide our users with Apple Pay Later,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
9. Apple Music Classical arrives
Apple Music subscribers can now enjoy a classical music streaming experience at no additional cost. Subscribers can easily find any recording in the world’s largest classical music catalog, enjoy the highest audio quality available, and experience immersive Spatial Audio. “We love music — that’s really what we’re all about — and classical music is foundational to the music of all genres,” said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Apple Music and Beats. Apple Music Classical is available on the App Store at no additional cost for subscribers.
10. Apple Gangnam opens in South Korea
On March 31, Apple Gangnam opened in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam District in South Korea. The store boasts an almost 150-person team and an incredible lineup of products and services. During the grand opening, customers participated in free Today at Apple sessions, which included a limited-time Pop-Up Studio Spatial Audio listening experience featuring K-pop group, NewJeans.
