Apple is gearing up for one of its biggest product events of the year. The company will host its “Surprise and shine” event at Apple Park today, September 9, with the next-generation iPhone lineup expected to take centre stage. The event is also significant for another reason: it will be the first major Apple product event led by new CEO John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook earlier this month.
The spotlight is expected to fall on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, but Apple's long-rumoured entry into the foldable-phone market could become the night's biggest announcement. Reports suggest the company could introduce a book-style foldable iPhone, although Apple has not confirmed the product or its specifications.
The premium iPhone models are expected to bring several hardware changes, including a possible smaller Dynamic Island, upgraded cameras and Apple's next-generation A20 Pro chip. A variable-aperture main camera has also been reported for the Pro lineup, but these details remain unconfirmed until Apple takes the stage.
The foldable iPhone is potentially the more important story. Reports describe a passport-style design with a smaller external screen and a larger internal display. Some reports have suggested screen sizes of around 5.5 inches externally and 7.8 inches when unfolded, while Reuters reports that the device could be positioned at a price above $2,500. None of these figures should be treated as official until Apple announces the product.
Apple may also introduce new Apple Watch and AirPods models during the event. The company has not published a complete list of products it plans to announce, so the final lineup could differ from current reports.
There is also an important change to Apple's usual iPhone strategy this year. Reports indicate that the standard iPhone 18 may not arrive alongside the Pro models, with Apple potentially moving the regular model to a later 2027 launch window. That would make this year's September event more heavily focused on Apple's premium devices.
For Indian viewers, the event is scheduled to begin at 10:30 PM IST. Apple is expected to stream it through its website, Apple TV and official YouTube channel.
The biggest question tonight is whether Apple can make its first foldable iPhone more than just another entry into an already established category. Samsung, Google and other manufacturers have spent years developing foldable phones, while Apple has so far stayed out of the segment. If the reports prove accurate, today's event could mark Apple's biggest hardware expansion into a new smartphone category in years.
MobilesX will update this story after Apple's event with the officially announced iPhone models, specifications, pricing and availability.