What to Expect From Apple This Month, Including All-New 'Invites' App

Apple has yet to announce any new devices this year, but that should change in February. At a minimum, there will be Powerbeats Pro 2 next week, and there is a decent chance that the MacBook Air will be updated this month.

On the software side, Apple is expected to announce an all-new 'Invites' app soon, and the first iOS 18.4 beta should be released this month.

Below, we recap what to expect from Apple in the month of February.

'Invites' App

Last month, 9to5Mac discovered iOS 18.3 code references to a potential new 'Invites' app from Apple, that would help users to organize meetings and other events. The report said the app would have iCloud integration, meaning that event invites would sync across Apple devices and be available on the web at iCloud.com.

Over the weekend, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said the new iCloud-based service is codenamed 'Confetti' within Apple. He said it will offer users a 'new way to invite people to parties, functions, and meetings.'

Apple Invites could be announced as soon as this week, according to Gurman.

Update: The name 'Apple Invites' has leaked on iCloud.com. The page says Apple Invites will be an iCloud+ feature, with an Apple Invites app likely.

Powerbeats Pro 2

Last year, Apple teased that Powerbeats Pro 2 would be released in 2025. A few days ago, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said Apple plans to announce the wireless earbuds on Tuesday, February 11, with U.S. pricing set at $250.

Powerbeats Pro are a sportier, fitness-focused alternative to AirPods Pro with built-in, adjustable ear hooks for a secure fit. According to Gurman, the Powerbeats Pro 2 will feature the same H2 chip as used in the AirPods Pro 2, which will enable improved active noise cancellation compared to the original Powerbeats Pro.

Apple's teaser video last year showed MLB star Shohei Ohtani wearing the Powerbeats Pro 2, revealing a more vertical, slimmer design compared to the original Powerbeats Pro, which launched in 2019 and are now discontinued.

We previously discovered that Powerbeats Pro 2 will offer heart rate monitoring during workouts. Based on our iOS 18 code findings, you will be able to connect the Powerbeats Pro 2 to gym equipment like a treadmill to measure heart rate, and the data will be visible in the Health app and other supported apps on the iPhone.

iOS 18 code also revealed that Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available in four new color options, including a vibrant 'Electric Orange.'

Based on other recent Beats headphones, other potential upgrades for the Powerbeats Pro 2 over the originals include improved sound quality, longer battery life, and a USB-C port instead of Lightning on the charging case.

New MacBook Air?

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, new MacBook Air models will be announced 'earlier' than some other devices rumored to launch this spring, such as the iPhone SE 4 and iPad 11. He has repeatedly said the new MacBook Air models are already in production, so a release as early as February rather than March or April seems possible.

Likely upgrades for the next 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models include the M4 chip, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and more.

iOS 18.4 Beta

The first iOS 18.4 beta should be released at some point this month.

The software update is expected to introduce several new Apple Intelligence features for Siri, including on-screen awareness, deeper per-app controls, understanding of the user's personal context, and more. Apple Intelligence, which requires an iPhone 15 Pro or any iPhone 16, will also be made available in additional languages.

Other new features expected in iOS 18.4 include new emoji, the ability to set default map and translation apps in the EU, and more.

Apple's website suggests that iOS 18.4 will be released in April.Related Roundups: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, MacBook AirTag: BeatsBuyer's Guide: 15' MacBook Air (Don't Buy), 13' MacBook Air (Don't Buy)Related Forums: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, MacBook AirThis article, "What to Expect From Apple This Month, Including All-New 'Invites' App" first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums