Apple is now just two days away from its “Surprise and shine” special event, and the company appears to be preparing one of its most consequential product launches in years.
The event takes place on Wednesday, September 9 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, or 6:00 p.m. in the UK, with the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and Apple’s first foldable iPhone expected to headline the presentation.
The Apple Post previously published a full breakdown of what to expect from Apple’s September event, but the final days before the keynote have brought additional reports and a clearer picture of what is likely to appear.
The biggest announcement is expected to be Apple’s first foldable iPhone, widely rumored to launch as iPhone Ultra. Reports point to a passport-style design with an outer display around 5.5 inches and a larger internal screen around 7.8 inches, giving the device a more tablet-like layout when opened.
Apple is also expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Both models are rumored to retain the overall design introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro while gaining Apple’s first 2nm A20 Pro chip, a smaller Dynamic Island, camera upgrades and improved battery efficiency.
Recent reporting has suggested the iPhone 18 Pro Max may be more differentiated from the smaller model than usual. A larger battery is expected, while a mechanical variable-aperture Main camera could potentially be exclusive to the Pro Max.
The Apple Watch lineup should also be refreshed. Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to gain a faster processor, improved health and fitness tracking and a possible return of ceramic case options, while Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected to receive similar internal upgrades.
AirPods 5 are another strong possibility. As reported by 9to5Mac, Apple is expected to introduce two versions, continuing the current strategy of offering models with and without Active Noise Cancellation.
Apple may also use the event to introduce new home products. Reports have repeatedly pointed to an updated Apple TV 4K, a new HomePod mini and Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub, although these products are considered less certain than the new iPhones and Apple Watches.
One notable absence is expected to be the standard iPhone 18. The Apple Post recently reported on Apple’s expected split iPhone launch strategy, which could push the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and second-generation iPhone Air into spring 2027.
The keynote will also give Apple an opportunity to confirm release dates for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, watchOS 27, macOS Golden Gate and its other major software updates.
This will be the first major Apple product event led by John Ternus since he became CEO on September 1, adding another layer of significance to a keynote already expected to introduce Apple’s first new iPhone form factor in nearly a decade.