Apple’s upcoming product launch, scheduled for September 9, is generating significant interest as the company prepares to enter the foldable smartphone market. The anticipated device, reportedly named the iPhone Ultra, marks Apple’s first foldable phone after years of competitors like Samsung leading the segment. Priced above $2,000, the iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a 5.5-inch external display that unfolds into a 7.8-inch screen, offering a tablet-like experience while maintaining pocket-friendly dimensions.
Early reports from testers suggest the device has a premium build quality. To maintain a slim profile, Apple may omit the telephoto camera, instead equipping the phone with a dual-lens rear system comprising a main and ultra-wide lens. The foldable iPhone is also expected to use Touch ID integrated into the side button rather than Face ID, likely a design choice to save space.
The iPhone Ultra should support side-by-side multitasking on its expanded screen, running iOS rather than iPadOS. Apple has reportedly addressed the common foldable phone issue of a visible crease, creating a display where the fold is less noticeable.
For consumers not interested in foldables, Apple is also expected to announce updates to the iPhone 18 series, including Pro and Pro Max models. Notably, the standard iPhone 18 may launch several months after the premium versions, a departure from Apple’s usual release pattern.
In addition to smartphones, Apple is anticipated to refresh its HomePod smart speaker lineup, incorporating advancements tied to its Gemini-powered Siri AI. Intriguingly, new AirPods models may include built-in cameras designed to provide visual input for Siri. These cameras are reportedly low resolution and intended to enhance the assistant’s contextual awareness rather than capture photos or videos. While this raises potential privacy concerns, Apple’s emphasis on user privacy may help address them.
Overall, Apple’s September event is expected to showcase a range of innovations that reflect the company’s evolving hardware strategy under new leadership, with a focus on new form factors and enhanced AI capabilities.