The executives took the form of memojis — the virtual characters Apple offers in iMessage — and shareholders who submitted proposals spoke via prerecorded messages. Before the meeting began, Apple showed videos of its latest devices, including the new AirPods Pro and Apple Watch Ultra, in addition to billboards globally highlighting the iPhone 14 Pro. The company also played a commercial for the new yellow iPhone 14 color. Apple shares have climbed about 15% this year, far outpacing the S&P 500 Index. The stock slipped 1.1% to $148.93 as of 1:15 p.m. in New York on Friday. Shareholders voted on nine proposals in all: four from Apple and five from outside investors. While shareholders typically abide by the company's advice, they have broken with management on a few issues in recent years. That includes voting last year in favor of a public report on using concealment clauses in employee contracts.