As is the case every September, it’s considered a certainty that we’ll see the 2026 iPhone lineup. There’s also expected to be Apple’s first foldable smartphone, as well as updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods lines.

Apple iPhone Ultra Fold FotoApple iPhone Ultra Fold Foto (Image © Macrumors)

Foldable iPhone: Technical Specifications and Design

Apple is expected to unveil a book-style foldable smartphone, which, according to leaks, will be named the “iPhone Ultra.” The highlight will likely be the dual-display configuration, which is said to consist of a 5.5-inch OLED outer screen and a 7.8-inch OLED inner screen. The iPhone Ultra is thus designed to be wider when unfolded, resembling a folded tablet.

To ensure durability, the iPhone Ultra will feature a liquid-metal hinge and an optically clear adhesive to minimize the visibility of the screen crease over time. However, since it is the first device of its kind, issues may arise. In terms of dimensions, the iPhone Ultra is about 4.5 mm thick when unfolded and 9 mm thick when folded. Due to these space constraints, the foldable model will replace the usual “Face ID” with a Touch ID side button. The rear camera system is limited to a wide-angle and an ultra-wide-angle lens, omitting the telephoto lens found on the Pro models. This will likely disappoint many users.

The internal hardware includes:

  • Processor: 2-nm A20 Pro chip with a 7-core GPU.
  • RAM: 12 GB.
  • Connectivity: The C2 modem, though some U.S. models may use Qualcomm hardware for mmWave 5G support.
  • Battery: A dual-battery system with a total capacity between 5,400 and 5,800 mAh.
  • Charging: Integration of MagSafe charging technology.

The iPhone Ultra will be available in silver/white and a deep indigo shade. The estimated price starts at €2,000, with higher-capacity versions costing up to €2,500.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro Dark Cherry FotoApple iPhone 18 Pro Dark Cherry Foto (Image © Macrumors)

iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max

The iPhone 18 Pro models will certainly replace the iPhone 17 Pro models. However, they will once again feature a design similar to previous models, though the iPhone 18 Pro Max may be slightly heavier and thicker to accommodate a larger battery (5,567 mAh).

The following are expected to be among the most important hardware updates:

  • Display: The switch to LTPO+ display technology for greater energy efficiency.
  • CPU/SoC: Integration of the 2-nm A20 Pro chip.
  • Camera system: A new main camera with a variable-aperture lens to improve light control and exposure. The system could also include a three-layer image sensor developed by Samsung that enhances performance in low-light conditions.
  • Design: New color options, including Dark Cherry, Light Blue, and Silver, possibly with a smaller “Dynamic Island.”

Due to rising costs for memory and storage components, the new models will see a price increase of between 100 and 300 €, as the prices of all other products have already risen by 30%.

What’s New in Wearables and Audio

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4

In recent years, the iPhone event has also been accompanied by an Apple Watch update, which brings us to the Apple Watch Series 12. It will likely retain the current design. However, a new processor will be the biggest change, offering improved health monitoring—including a feature for continuous heart rate tracking—to provide comprehensive insights into well-being. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected to receive the same processor upgrades without any major design changes.

AirPods 5

The AirPods 5 are expected to launch with a new H3 chip to reduce latency and further improve sound quality. The product lineup will likely continue to offer both versions with active noise cancellation (ANC) and without ANC. The AirPods Pro are unlikely to be updated.

Other Hardware and Software Releases

Apple may also announce several products for its smart home ecosystem:

  • Home Hub: A device with a square 7-inch display and built-in camera for smart home control and video calls.
  • Apple TV 4K: A hardware update with a faster processor to support new AI features and a redesigned remote control.
  • HomePod mini: A processor update and new color options.

As for software, the event will announce the release dates for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS Golden Gate, tvOS 27, watchOS 27, and visionOS 27. The public release is expected on September 14.

Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are expected to begin on Saturday, September 12, to avoid the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The official launch is scheduled for Friday, September 18.

Watch the Apple Event Live

Apple will stream the keynote live on its own website as well as on YouTube.