Cupertino: Apple is set to host its much-anticipated September event at Apple Park on Wednesday, September 9, with the iPhone 18 Pro series and the company’s first foldable iPhone expected to headline the launch. The event, titled “Surprise and shine”, begins at 10:30 pm IST and will be streamed through Apple’s website, Apple TV app and YouTube.
This year’s event could be particularly significant for Apple as it is expected to mark the first major iPhone launch under new CEO John Ternus, who took over as Apple’s chief executive on September 1.
While Apple has not confirmed most of the specifications circulating online, reports and leaks have already provided an indication of what consumers could see on stage.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max expected to lead the launch
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to be the main products unveiled during the event.
According to India Today, the two Pro models could retain the familiar display sizes of 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively. However, Apple is expected to introduce several internal and camera-related upgrades.
One of the biggest expected changes is Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip. Reports suggest the chip could bring improvements in performance and power efficiency, while the Pro models are also expected to receive better battery performance.
The camera system could receive a major upgrade as well. One prominent leak suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro Max could feature a variable-aperture main camera. Unlike a fixed-aperture lens, a variable aperture can adjust the amount of light reaching the camera sensor, potentially offering greater flexibility in different lighting conditions.
The Dynamic Island could also become smaller, giving the display a cleaner appearance. There has additionally been speculation about under-display Face ID, although this remains unconfirmed.
Apple’s first foldable iPhone could steal the spotlight
The biggest attraction of the September 9 event could be Apple’s long-rumoured entry into the foldable smartphone market.
Apple is widely expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, although the company has not officially confirmed the product. The device is reportedly being referred to as the iPhone Ultra, but that name should be treated as a rumour until Apple announces it.
Leaks suggest Apple is working on a book-style foldable design, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series. The device is expected to focus heavily on the hinge mechanism and reducing the visible crease on the inner display.
Earlier reports have suggested an inner display of around 7.6 to 7.8 inches, along with an outer display of approximately 5.3 to 5.5 inches. These specifications remain based on reports rather than Apple’s official information.
The foldable iPhone is also expected to sit at the very top of Apple’s smartphone portfolio in terms of pricing. India Today reports that the device could cost more than $2,500, which would translate to roughly Rs 2.6 lakh before accounting for Indian taxes and other pricing considerations.
Apple could change its traditional iPhone launch cycle
Another significant change could involve the timing of Apple’s standard iPhone models.
Unlike previous September launches, the regular iPhone 18 is not expected to arrive alongside the Pro models. Reports suggest Apple could postpone the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air to spring 2027.
If that happens, the September event would be heavily focused on Apple’s premium smartphones, potentially making the Pro and foldable models the centre of attention.
The move would represent a notable change to Apple’s established annual iPhone launch strategy.
New Apple Watch models also expected
The iPhone may dominate the event, but Apple is expected to announce other products as well.
Reports point to the Apple Watch Series 12 and a new Apple Watch Ultra. The upcoming watches could bring additional health-monitoring capabilities, while there has also been speculation about a return of a ceramic case.
Apple could also introduce updated AirPods. Rumours have pointed towards additional health-related sensors and other improvements, although more ambitious features such as cameras are reportedly not expected at this event.
There has also been speculation about Apple’s wider smart-home ambitions, including a possible home hub with a display. However, this remains considerably less certain than the expected iPhone and Apple Watch announcements.
When and where to watch Apple’s September 9 event
Apple’s “Surprise and shine” event will begin at 10:30 pm IST on September 9.
The keynote will be available through Apple’s official website, the Apple TV app and YouTube. India Today is also providing live coverage from Apple Park, including announcements, specifications, prices and first impressions.
For Indian consumers, the event will be particularly important because it could reveal whether Apple is finally entering the premium foldable smartphone segment and whether the company intends to significantly alter its traditional iPhone release calendar.
A potentially landmark iPhone launch
The September 9 event could become one of Apple’s most important product launches in recent years. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to bring improvements to processing, cameras, battery life and display design, while the potential arrival of a foldable iPhone could open an entirely new product category for Apple.
However, most of the details currently available remain based on leaks and reports. Apple has yet to officially confirm the specifications, name, pricing or even the existence of the foldable iPhone.
The answers will come when Apple takes the stage at Apple Park. Until then, consumers should treat the reported specifications and prices as expectations rather than confirmed product details.