Apple unveils iPhone 16 but lacks star power at event

Apple's recent event showcased the iPhone 16, new Watches, and AirPods, but lacked the engaging celebrity appearances that have become a hallmark of tech launches. The event highlighted Apple's advancements in AI, particularly a new feature called visual intelligence, which allows users to scan their surroundings with the camera for information. However, the absence of star power was notable, especially when compared to the successful celebrity integrations seen at Samsung and Google's earlier events this summer. During Samsung's Unpacked event, actress Sydney Sweeney made a surprise appearance, while Keke Palmer and Jimmy Butler added excitement to Google's Pixel launch. These engaging moments contrasted sharply with Apple's presentation, which included a clip of The Weeknd's music video but failed to energize the audience. The lack of a celebrity cameo left many wondering why Apple, known for its high-profile collaborations, chose not to include any this time. The speculation around potential guests included Taylor Swift, NFL personalities, and even OpenAI's Sam Altman, who had previously appeared at Apple's WWDC. The absence of a notable figure was particularly disappointing given that last year's event featured Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer. This decision not to include a celebrity could suggest a shift in Apple's strategy or a desire to focus more on product features rather than entertainment. Ultimately, the event's lack of star power may have affected its overall impact, leaving attendees and viewers wanting more excitement and engagement. As the tech industry continues to evolve, the importance of captivating presentations remains crucial for companies like Apple to maintain their competitive edge.