Apple’s biggest event of the year is just days away. September 9 will bring the “huge launch” new CEO John Ternus recently teased, with rumors indicating new iPhones, Apple Watch models, and AirPods are coming—and possibly more. Here are the six major products expected to debut.
This year’s September keynote carries extra weight. It will be John Ternus’s first major product launch since taking over as Apple’s CEO. Ternus, who previously led hardware engineering, has said that the event will showcase a major step forward for Apple’s lineup. The company is under pressure to maintain its momentum in an increasingly competitive market, and the products expected on stage cover Apple’s most important categories: the iPhone, the Apple Watch, and the AirPods. Apple’s September event is not just about hardware; it is also expected to introduce new versions of iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. The company is likely to release release candidates to developers immediately after the event, with public versions following a week or so later.
iPhone
Apple is expected to announce three new phones. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will be the flagship models, powered by the next-generation A20 Pro chip. Rumors point to a new camera system with improved low-light performance, larger sensors, and an advanced telephoto lens. The Dynamic Island is also shrinking, freeing up extra screen space without losing Face ID or camera capabilities. The Pro models are likely to arrive in new colors, possibly with a more scratch-resistant finish.
- iPhone 18 Pro: A20 Pro chip, major camera upgrades, new colors, smaller Dynamic Island.
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: Larger battery and better efficiency for the best battery life ever in an iPhone.
- iPhone Ultra: Apple’s first foldable iPhone, with a book-style display and premium materials.
The iPhone Ultra is the most intriguing addition. A foldable iPhone has been rumored for years, and its arrival represents a significant shift in Apple’s smartphone strategy. The device is expected to feature an exterior display and a large, crease-resistant inner screen. It could be sold alongside the Pro models rather than as a replacement, giving Apple a third tier in its lineup. Pricing is expected to start around $1,999, making it the most expensive iPhone ever. The foldable form factor could open up new possibilities for multitasking and media consumption, especially if Apple’s software makes efficient use of the larger canvas.
Apple Watch
Apple Watch is always a fixture of the September event. This year, two new models are expected: Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Apple Watch Series 12. Both should bring more powerful chips and new health features. The Ultra 4 is built for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, so its upgrades may include a brighter display and a new health sensor for altitude or water temperature. The Series 12, meanwhile, is aimed at a wider audience. Reports suggest an always-on heart monitor that can track heart rhythm every five seconds, even at night. A ceramic shell option is also reportedly back, after being absent from many recent generations, giving Watch buyers a luxury alternative to stainless steel or aluminum.
- Apple Watch Ultra 4: New health sensors, design updates, and a faster processor.
- Apple Watch Series 12: Upgraded S-class chip, always-on heart monitor, ceramic option.
Apple’s wearables strategy has focused on health and safety features. The company has been obtaining regulatory approvals for new capabilities, and the Ultra 4 could include a sleep apnea alert similar to the feature added in recent generations. Another potential addition is a body temperature sensor for women’s health. These are the kinds of updates that encourage existing users to upgrade. With watchOS 12 likely to be released alongside the new hardware, Apple is expected to introduce additional fitness metrics and deeper integration with the Health app.
AirPods
AirPods 5 will be the sixth major new product to launch at the event. According to leaks, Apple will offer two versions: a standard AirPods 5 and a higher-end model with Active Noise Cancellation. This mirrors the current AirPods 4 lineup, which Apple introduced with mid-cycle updates. The new models may include an updated chip with improved Bluetooth performance, enriched bass response, and a longer battery lifespan. The updated AirPods will arrive alongside iOS 26 for iPhones and Apple Watches, ensuring that the new audio features work seamlessly with the latest devices. Apple’s focus will be on easing pairing, improving call quality, and reducing background noise during phone conversations. Rumors of a camera-equipped AirPods product are premature; informed reporting says that product is destined for 2027, not 2026.
- AirPods 5: Updated base model and
Source: 9to5Mac News