Apple prepares September launch event amid reports of foldable phone

The short version

• Apple is scheduled to host its 'Surprise and shine' hardware presentation on September 9 under new CEO John Ternus.[CNET · CNET]
• Reports suggest the company may unveil a luxury foldable iPhone Ultra starting at or above $2,000 alongside iPhone 18 Pro devices.[9to5Mac · 9to5Mac · CNET · CNET]
• The standard iPhone 18 may be delayed until spring 2027, while analysts offer differing views on when the foldable model will reach store shelves.[9to5Mac · CNET · CNET]

Key facts

• Apple scheduled its fall hardware presentation, titled 'Surprise and shine', for September 9.[CNET · CNET]
• John Ternus is stepping in as CEO ahead of the event following Tim Cook's April departure announcement.[CNET]
• Rumors indicate Apple may hold back the standard iPhone 18 until spring 2027, focusing its September rollout on Pro editions and a foldable model.[CNET · CNET]
• The foldable iPhone Ultra is projected to start at $2,000 or higher and reportedly includes MagSafe with 5.5-inch outer and 7.8-inch inner displays.[9to5Mac · CNET]
• Leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro line will feature larger battery capacities, a variable-aperture main camera, and an A20 Pro chip.[9to5Mac · CNET]
• Reports suggest next-generation AirPods could include an infrared camera to assist visual intelligence features.[CNET]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• The Big Questions Before Apple’s Big iPhone EventCNET
• New iPhone Ultra details arrive for specs, multitasking, launch timing, more9to5Mac
• A Folding iPhone at Last? What to Expect From Apple’s Surprise and Shine Fall EventCNET
• Apple’s Foldable iPhone Ultra Launch May Be Days Away, if You Can Get OneCNET
• iPhone 18 Pro: Three reasons you might want to upgrade from iPhone 17 Pro9to5Mac