Apple is set to hold its annual product launch event on September 9, where it is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, marking the company’s entry into a market led by competitors like Samsung for over five years. This launch is particularly notable as it coincides with a leadership transition, with John Ternus taking over as CEO from Tim Cook.

The foldable iPhone, reportedly named the iPhone Ultra, is anticipated to feature a 5.5-inch cover 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 and a design that differs from traditional iPhones by being shorter and wider when folded.

To achieve a sleek foldable design, Apple appears to have omitted the telephoto camera, instead equipping the device with a dual-lens system including a main and ultra-wide lens similar to standard iPhone models. The phone is also expected to support MagSafe wireless charging but will replace Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID fingerprint sensor to save space.

The foldable iPhone will run iOS rather than iPadOS, supporting multitasking with side-by-side app usage on the unfolded screen. Apple has reportedly addressed the common foldable phone issue of visible screen creases, creating a display where the crease is less noticeable.

For users not interested in foldable phones or the high price point, Apple is also expected to release updates to the iPhone 18 series, including the 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.

Beyond phones, Apple is anticipated to refresh its HomePod smart speaker line, integrating advancements tied to its Gemini-powered Siri AI update. Additionally, new AirPods models may include built-in cameras designed to assist Siri by capturing low-resolution visual information rather than taking photos or videos. This feature aims to enhance Siri’s contextual awareness while maintaining user privacy, a key aspect of Apple’s brand.

Overall, Apple’s upcoming event is expected to showcase significant innovations across multiple product lines, reflecting the company’s efforts to expand its hardware ecosystem and introduce new form factors and functionalities.