Apple Confirms 'Surprise and Shine' Event for 9 September
Apple has confirmed that its autumn event will take place on 9 September at 10 am Pacific time at Apple Park, under the tagline "Surprise and shine" and an invitation showing a sun rising behind the company logo.
The expectation is that Apple will finally unveil a foldable iPhone, a device IDC predicts could ship 10 million units in its first year at around $2,500.
Key Details:
- Launch Split: The standard iPhone 18 is expected to launch in spring, marking the first time Apple has split its annual iPhone cycle into two events.
- Design: The foldable iPhone is reported to have a book-style design with an outer display of approximately 5.3 inches and an inner display of nearly 7.8 inches.
- Hardware: It is expected to feature a titanium frame and a display designed to minimize creases, addressing a common issue for rival foldables.
- Face ID Replacement: Touch ID in the power button is expected to replace Face ID due to the device's folded design.
- Pricing: Price expectations range from about $2,000 to $2,500, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone to date.
Pro Models:
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to retain their current designs while gaining:
- An A20 Pro chip built on a 2nm process
- Apple's own C2 modem
- A variable-aperture main camera
- A smaller Dynamic Island.
Other Announcements:
- Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4: Expected to include new sensors.
- AirPods, OLED iPad mini, and Mac mini: Rumored refreshes.
Durability Concerns:
Durability has been a historical challenge for foldables, and while Apple has not confirmed specific durability claims, a $2,000 phone with a moving part raises warranty considerations.
Home Products:
Updated HomePod mini and Apple TV hardware with Siri’s newer AI stack are also expected.