Apple’s September iPhone Launch: What to Expect

Apple has officially announced its next hardware event, titled “Surprise and Shine,” scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PT. This event will take place at the renowned Steve Jobs Theater located in Apple Park.

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This keynote is particularly significant as it marks John Ternus’ debut as Apple’s CEO after Tim Cook’s planned departure. Ternus, who takes on the role starting September 1, has a solid background in hardware engineering. Reports indicate that under his leadership, the industrial design team may gain more influence in product decision-making.

This year’s hardware lineup appears to be more selective than in the past. The spotlight will focus on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, along with Apple’s highly anticipated foldable phone, rumored to be named the iPhone Ultra. the standard iPhone 18, 18e, and the next-generation iPhone Air will likely be absent from this event, as they are expected to be unveiled at a spring 2027 event. New models of Apple Watches are also anticipated to make an appearance.

Here’s what we know about the upcoming keynote so far.

Anticipated Features of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

According to Mashable’s ongoing coverage of the iPhone 18, Apple seems poised to emphasize its Pro models during this launch.

In terms of design, the Pro models are expected to maintain a familiar aesthetic similar to last year’s models. Leaks indicate minor adjustments rather than a complete redesign, including a smaller Dynamic Island cutout and a more cohesive, single-tone back glass instead of last year’s two-tone finish.

This year’s color palette will introduce a silver option, dark gray, light blue, and a new hue dubbed “dark cherry.”

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Internally, the Pro models are set to feature Apple’s new A20 and A20 Pro chips, complemented by an upgraded C2 modem that could enable 5G satellite connectivity, along with an N2 chip designed to enhance WiFi and AirDrop reliability. Reports from Korean outlet The Bell suggest that Apple aims to unify RAM across the Pro series at 12GB, eliminating the previous base-versus-Pro memory distinctions. battery life is expected to improve, with capacities reaching around 5,000mAh becoming standard across the lineup.

The most notable enhancement involves the camera system. Various rumors suggest this may be one of the most significant upgrades in iPhone camera hardware to date, featuring a larger telephoto aperture and the introduction of variable aperture capabilities. leaker Ice Universe has indicated that this variable-aperture feature might be exclusive to the Pro Max, with the standard Pro model lacking this innovation.

The Pro Max is rumored to be slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, a necessary trade-off to accommodate a larger battery.

What to Expect from the iPhone Ultra

The most intriguing addition to this event is Apple’s first foldable phone, expected to be named the iPhone Ultra (previously referred to in our reports as the iPhone Fold). In our rumors guide regarding the Ultra, we highlighted that while Apple has not officially acknowledged the device, code references found in the iOS 27 beta, which include strings related to fold angles and screen states, along with macOS 27 features for resizing iPhone-mirroring windows, suggest its impending release.

Early testers cited by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reportedly appreciated the device’s hinge quality and its more iPad-like interface, though they expressed disappointment over the absence of a telephoto camera.

Expected specifications based on insights from analysts and supply-chain sources include:

• A book-style design featuring an approximately 7.8-inch inner OLED display and a 5.5-inch outer display.

• Touch ID functionality instead of Face ID.

• A total of four cameras — two on the rear, one inside, and one front-facing — but lacking a telephoto lens.

• A liquid-metal hinge designed to enhance durability.

• A starting price exceeding $2,000, with estimates hovering around $2,399.

• A minimum battery capacity of 5,088mAh.

Debates among analysts, leakers, and Gurman continue regarding the actual release date of the Ultra. Some speculate that while it may be announced during the event, it might not be available for purchase until later, reminiscent of the iPhone X’s release pattern. Others, including Gurman, have countered this notion.

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4: What’s New?

To the new iPhones, the upcoming hardware event is expected to showcase the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. These models are anticipated to feature new health and fitness capabilities, alongside fresh color and band options, rather than a complete redesign this cycle.

Future improvements may include a return to ceramic cases, with Apple exploring the concept of a screen-free model aimed at the minimalist wearable market, targeting a potential release in late 2026 or 2027, according to insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

Ways to Tune into the iPhone 18 Event Live

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET. The event will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park and will be livestreamed on Apple’s official website and YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person.

Mashable will cover the event live, so stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage and impressions following the keynote.