Apple launches new iPhone 7
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SAN FRANCISCO (APP) - Apple on Wednesday introduces a new iPhone and perhaps a second-generation smartwatch as it polishes its lineup of devices to shine during the year-end shopping season.
The rumor mill has been grinding away with talk of iPhone 7 models that will boast faster chips, more sophisticated cameras, and improved software while doing away with jacks for plugging in wired headphones.
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To assuage users accustomed to wired headphones, Apple could roll out accessories that include an adaptor that plugs into a remaining port.
The event would also be a chance to showcase wireless headphones, perhaps some from Beats, which Apple bought two years ago in a deal valued at $3 billion.
"Though not a completely redesigned smartphone, I do expect Apple to announce enough innovation to the new iPhone 7 devices to maintain its leadership," said Forrester analyst Thomas Husson.
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"In particular, the timing would be ideal for Apple to leverage its Beats acquisition and deliver new headphones -- bundling voice-based services from Siri with an Apple Music subscription offering."
In Apple's usual enigmatic style, it provided little more that the date, time and place to the invitation-only gathering.
