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Apple unveils its latest tech, but is it worth the price tag?

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Apple unveils its latest tech at Apple Park, revealing new iPhones, Watches and AirPods

Well if you’re a die hard Apple fan, today is like Christmas. The tech giant has unveiled a whole host of new products from Apple Park. So at a glance, what can we get our hands on?

As expected, Apple revealed its new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Following these devices are the Apple Watch Ultra, the Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch SE and redesigned AirPods Pro.

Apple launches the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max

So let’s break it down for you, starting with the iPhone.

The iPhone 14 Pro is the company’s top of the range smartphone. There are two versions, the smaller 6.1 inch device and the premium ‘Max’ version sitting at 6.7 inches. But you’ll pay extra for that. The iPhone 14 Pro will starts at $999, and the bigger model starts at $1099, which is the same price as last year’s devices. In the U.S. at least.

Some new key features include an always-on display and a new low-power mode. They’re also powered by the A16 Bionic chip, have an incredible 48-megapixel camera and improved low-light photography. If you’re desperate to buy, don’t worry, you won’t have to wait very long. The phones will be available for preorder on Friday and will ship the following week.

AirPods Pro get an update

Next is the product many Apple fans have been crying out for. I’m of course talking about the redesigned AirPods Pro. The new model of the wireless earbuds with noise-cancelling capabilities comes at a cost $249 and goes on sale on Sept 23.

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook says the new buds have better sound quality and clarity, thanks to the new Apple H2 chip and the noise cancelling is reportedly twice as good as before. They also sport touch control to adjust volume, longer battery life with up to 6 hours listening time and a speaker added to the case.

From an external perspective, the design is pretty much the same as before. The AirPods Pro have Apple’s signature stem and only come in white. There were also rumours this latest version would have  higher-resolution audio, but sadly this isn’t the case. Regardless, Apple says the updates are significant.

Say hello to the new Apple Watch line-up

Let’s wrap up today’s Apple launch with the famed Apple Watch. At the pointy end is the Apple Watch Ultra, which is a high-end device targeted towards outdoor athletes and go-getters. It has a new design, bigger screen, and titanium case.

The watch face also includes more information, including a compass, and even new orange “action” button for use while working out or wearing gloves. And if you like diving, don’t fret, it will also show you how deep you are when swimming. Pricing starts at $799 and the product will hit shelves on September 23.

On the other end of the spectrum is the Apple Watch SE, which is the low-cost version for those on a budget. It’s been redesigned to include a bigger screen, heart rate notifications and fall detection. It starts at just $249, making it an affordable entry-level device.

Finally there’s the Series 8. Apple COO Jeff Williams says it’s more durable and even has a new temperature sensor to help track women’s health, including ovulation.Coming in four unique colours in aluminium and three in stainless steel, there’s a big collection to chose from. Pricing starts at $399.

William is an Executive News Producer at TICKER NEWS, responsible for the production and direction of news bulletins. William is also the presenter of the hourly Weather + Climate segment. With qualifications in Journalism and Law (LLB), William previously worked at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) before moving to TICKER NEWS. He was also an intern at the Seven Network's 'Sunrise'. A creative-minded individual, William has a passion for broadcast journalism and reporting on global politics and international affairs.

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Fed cuts rates, signals more potentially ahead

Fed lowers rates amid job market concerns, signalling potential further cuts in upcoming meetings

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Fed lowers rates amid job market concerns, signalling potential further cuts in upcoming meetings

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In Short:
– The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter-point to address job market concerns.
– Officials expect at least two additional rate cuts by year-end amid ongoing economic uncertainties.
The Federal Reserve has reduced interest rates by a quarter-point, addressing concerns about a weakening job market overshadowing inflation worries.
A majority of officials anticipate at least two additional cuts by year-end during the remaining meetings in October and December.Banner

Fed Chair Jerome Powell noted a significant shift in the labour market, highlighting “downside risk” in his statements.

The recent rate cut, supported by 11 of 12 Fed voters, aims to recalibrate an economy facing uncertainties from policy changes and market pressures.

Policy Dynamics

The decision comes amid intense political scrutiny, with President Trump openly criticising Powell’s reluctance to lower rates.

Despite the controversy, Powell asserts that political pressures do not influence Fed operations.

The current benchmark federal-funds rate now sits between 4% and 4.25%, the lowest since 2021, providing some reprieve to consumers and small businesses. Economic forecasts indicate ongoing complexities, including inflation trends and the impact of tariffs on labour dynamics, complicating future policy decisions.


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Fed faces unusual dissent amid leadership uncertainty

Fed’s Powell navigates contentious meeting amid Trump-appointed dissenters as rate cut looms and succession contest heats up

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Fed’s Powell navigates contentious meeting amid Trump-appointed dissenters as rate cut looms and succession contest heats up

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In Short:
– This week’s Federal Reserve meeting faces unusual dissent as Chair Powell approaches his term’s end.
– Analysts predict dissent over expected rate cuts due to political pressures from Trump-appointed officials.
This week’s Federal Reserve meeting is set to be particularly unusual, with Chair Jerome Powell facing significant disagreements over future policy as he approaches the end of his term in May.Tensions began before the meeting when Fed governor Lisa Cook won a court ruling allowing her to attend, despite opposition from President Trump, who is attempting to remove her.

The situation is further complicated by the recent swearing-in of Trump adviser Stephen Miran to the Fed’s board, following a Senate confirmation.

Analysts believe Powell may encounter dissent on an expected quarter-percentage-point rate cut from both Trump-appointed officials and regional Fed presidents concerned about inflation.

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Potential Dissent

Trump has urged significant rate cuts and for the board to challenge Powell’s decisions.

Some analysts predict dissenting votes from Miran and other Trump appointees in favour of larger cuts. Federal Reserve veterans express concerns that political motivations may undermine the institution’s integrity, with indications that greater dissent could become commonplace.


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RBA plans to ban credit card surcharges in Australia

Reserve Bank of Australia plans to ban credit card surcharges despite banks warning of potential higher fees and weaker rewards

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Reserve Bank of Australia plans to ban credit card surcharges despite banks warning of potential higher fees and weaker rewards.

In Short:
– The RBA plans to ban surcharges on debit and credit card transactions, supported by consumer group Choice.
– Major banks oppose the ban, warning it could lead to higher card fees and reduced rewards for credit card users.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) intends to implement a ban on surcharges associated with debit and credit card transactions. Consumer advocacy group Choice endorses this initiative, arguing that it is unjust for users of low-cost debit cards to incur similar fees as credit card holders.Banner

The major banks, however, are opposing this reform. They caution that the removal of surcharges could prompt customers to abandon credit cards due to diminished rewards.

A final decision by the RBA is anticipated by December 2025.


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