Apple September 9 Event: iPhone 18 Pro Series and Foldable iPhone Ultra Expected
Apple is preparing to host its annual autumn product launch on September 9, carrying the tagline "Surprise and shine." The upcoming event is expected to showcase the next generation of iPhones, Apple Watches, and other hardware updates. While the company has maintained its usual silence regarding the details, industry rumours point to significant additions, including the iPhone 18 Pro series and Apple's first-ever foldable smartphone.
This event also represents a major leadership transition for the technology company. John Ternus is set to host his first major iPhone launch as Chief Executive Officer, having officially stepped into the role earlier this month. Tim Cook, who previously led these presentations, now serves as Apple’s executive chairman.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Specifications
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are widely anticipated to lead the traditional smartphone lineup. Reports indicate that Apple will retain a familiar external design for these models, focusing the majority of its updates on internal hardware, display modifications, and camera systems.
The Pro models are expected to be powered by Apple's new A20 Pro chip and will feature the company's C2 modem. Additionally, the devices may feature a smaller Dynamic Island and a simplified Camera Control button. A new Dark Cherry colour option is also rumoured to join the lineup.
The premium iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to receive exclusive hardware enhancements. Reports suggest the device may be slightly thicker than its predecessor to accommodate a larger battery. It is also rumoured to feature a variable-aperture main camera, which would adjust to different lighting conditions to offer users greater control over depth of field and light intake.
The Rumoured Foldable iPhone Ultra
Beyond the standard Pro lineup, significant attention is focused on Apple's rumoured entry into the foldable smartphone market. The device, widely referred to in reports as the iPhone Ultra, is expected to make its official debut at the event.
The foldable device is reportedly designed in a book-style format. It is expected to feature a 5.5-inch outer OLED display that unfolds to reveal a larger 7.8-inch main screen. When fully opened, the device could measure just 4.5mm in thickness, positioning it among Apple's thinnest hardware designs.
To achieve this slim profile, Apple has reportedly made several design compromises. The foldable phone is expected to feature Touch ID integrated into the side power button rather than the Face ID system used on other premium iPhones. Additionally, the device is rumoured to feature a dual-camera system on the rear, contrasting with the three-camera array found on the Pro models. The iPhone Ultra is expected to be a premium-tier product, with reports pointing to a starting price of approximately $2,000 or more.
Apple Watch Series 12 and AirPods 5
Apple is also expected to update its wearable devices during the September 9 presentation. The Apple Watch Series 12 and the Apple Watch Ultra 4 are both anticipated to debut.
The Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to maintain its established design while introducing a faster internal processor and enhanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. Reports also suggest the return of a ceramic case option. Similarly, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is projected to focus on internal hardware upgrades rather than a physical redesign.
In the audio category, Apple is expected to introduce the AirPods 5. The new wireless earbuds will reportedly be released in two distinct versions: one featuring active noise cancellation (ANC) and a more affordable variant without ANC. Both models are expected to utilize an updated H3 chip designed to improve audio quality and reduce latency.
Shift in Standard iPhone Release Strategy
Notably, the standard, non-Pro iPhone models may be absent from the September event. Reports indicate that Apple is adjusting its release schedule, delaying the launch of the regular iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and the second-generation iPhone Air until spring 2027.
This strategic shift would leave the September 9 event focused almost entirely on Apple's premium Pro models and the new foldable device. While updates to Apple's smart-home product line remain a possibility, the primary focus is expected to remain on the high-end mobile devices. As Apple has not officially confirmed these product specifications or release timelines, the final details of the launch may vary.
