Apple announces next product launch March 21

CUPERTINO, Calif., March 10 (UPI) -- Apple announced its next product launch will be March 21 in the tiny auditorium at company headquarters in Cupertino, Calif.

Experts say a spring launch implies a new iPad or Apple Watch is on the way, but the company could also bring new software or services for iOS or OS X -- the operating systems for Apple mobile devices and computers.

Rumors have swirled a new iPhone with a four-inch screen could be announced, replacing the iPhone 5s. If so, it would mean an older design and smaller battery for the device, but TouchID, Apple Pay and better processing for new apps. The price is expected to be more consumer-friendly as well, between $400 and $500.

However, there is still expected to be an entirely new iPhone7 coming in the fall, so this launch could be a low-cost stopgap until the device arrives.

Other rumors are the launch could be for a smaller iPad or a new Apple Watch band. In keeping with Apple tradition, the company isn't saying.

The product launch will come one day before Apple makes its case to a federal magistrate in Riverside, Calif., over whether the company should create a security bypass for the iPhone so the FBI can unlock the phone belonging to two people accused of opening fire in December on a San Bernardino, Calif., social services facility, killing 14 people.

Apple CEO Tim Cook argues doing so would make their product vulnerable to hackers. Others contend it could open a new doorway allowing the government to spy on citizens. The FBI and Department of Justice argue getting information from the phone is a matter of national security.