The Apple iPhone 18 launch is set to bring major changes to the company’s smartphone lineup when Apple holds its September 9 event.
The event, titled “Surprise and Shine,” will take place at Apple Park. It will also mark the first major Apple product launch led by new CEO John Ternus, who officially replaced Tim Cook on September 1.
However, Apple has not officially confirmed the full product lineup. Most details about the new iPhones come from industry reports and leaks.
First Foldable iPhone Could Be the Star
The biggest expected announcement is Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
Reports suggest the device could use a book-style design and feature a large internal display. Some reports refer to it as the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold, although Apple has not confirmed either name.
If launched, the foldable would represent Apple’s biggest iPhone design change in years.
The company has so far avoided the foldable-phone market while rivals such as Samsung have released several generations of folding devices.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Expected
Apple is also expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Both models could receive a faster A20 Pro chip and camera improvements. Reports also suggest Apple may reduce the size of the Dynamic Island.
The Pro Max could receive additional camera upgrades, including a variable-aperture system, although these details remain unconfirmed.
Base iPhone 18 May Arrive Later
Apple could also change its traditional release schedule.
Instead of launching the standard iPhone 18 alongside the Pro models, reports indicate that Apple may delay the base model until spring 2027.
The iPhone 18e and a future iPhone Air model could also arrive during that period.
This would give Apple a more staggered iPhone release strategy.
New Apple Watch Models Expected
The September event could also bring new Apple Watch models.
Reports point to the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Possible upgrades include faster processors, longer battery life and new health or connectivity features.
However, Apple has not confirmed the specifications.
AirPods Could Get an Update
Apple may also announce updated AirPods.
Reports suggest a new generation could receive hardware improvements and additional health-related features.
Still, not every rumored AirPods product is expected at the September event. Some more advanced models could arrive later.
Apple TV and Home Products
Apple could expand its smart-home lineup as well.
Reports suggest the company may introduce an updated Apple TV and a new HomePod mini.
Another possible product is a smart home hub that combines a display with speaker functionality. The device could control smart-home accessories, display widgets and support FaceTime calls.
These products remain unconfirmed ahead of the event.
iOS 27 and Software Updates
Apple is also preparing the next major software updates for its devices.
iOS 27 is expected to accompany the new hardware. The software could include features designed to support the company’s new hardware strategy, including improvements for a foldable iPhone.
Apple previously announced many of its software features at WWDC. The September event is expected to focus mainly on hardware and the final release schedule.
Prices Could Rise
Consumers may also face higher prices.
Industry reports point to rising component costs and a global memory shortage as factors that could push prices higher. Premium iPhone models are therefore expected to cost more than previous generations.
The foldable iPhone could command an especially high price because of its advanced display and hinge technology.
Some reports expect a price above $2,000, although Apple has not confirmed any figure.
A Major Test for John Ternus
The event will also give John Ternus his first major public test as Apple’s CEO.
Ternus took over from Tim Cook after 15 years of leadership under Cook. He previously led Apple’s hardware engineering operation and played an important role in the development of several major products.
Therefore, the September 9 event carries significance beyond the iPhone itself.
What to Expect on September 9
Apple’s September event could mark a major turning point for the iPhone.
The expected foldable model would take Apple into a product category it has never entered before. Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could introduce important performance and camera upgrades.
At the same time, Apple may use the event to introduce new watches, AirPods and home products.
For now, the Apple iPhone 18 launch remains partly surrounded by speculation. The full details, names, prices and release dates will become clear when Apple takes the stage on September 9.
