4 mins ago, By Michael Simon

Biggest camera improvement in years

48MP Fusion Camera with variable aperture that adjusts automatically based on the scene. When you’re in a darker environment, the aperture opens to let in around 50% more light, while night mode captures are faster with better quality.

9 mins ago, By Michael Simon

45 hours of battery life!!

IPhone 18 Pro has a next generation vapor chamber that helps the system manage even more heat. It has three times the surface area as the one in iPhone 17 Pro. Deionized water is constantly cycled throughout the system for significantly improved thermals. Combined with the new chip’s efficiancy, you’ll get 36 hours on the iPhone 18 Pro and an absolutely insane 45 hours on the 18n Pro Max.

Michael Simon

A20 Pro Chip

Apple’s newest iPhone chip has Apple’s latest six core CPU featuring two of our new super cores that are up to 20% faster and four efficiency cores, all integrated with neural accelerators that power low latency on device AI workloads as a significantly advanced GPU and  a new version of the neural accelerators with 2x faster 8-bit floating point math.

Jason Cross

Who needs a new iPhone?

So far, the iPhone 18 Pro pitch is all about how you should be excited for iOS 27 and now about why you would need or want a new iPhone.

18 mins ago, By Michael Simon

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

A20 Pro with new CPU core and GPU core, and “massive advancements in the most important areas intelligence, performance, battery, and camera.”

New colors: Silver, Deep Black, Glacier (Light Blue), and Burgandy (Dark Cherry).

Not only that, you can write and edit with Siri virtually anywhere you type, like generating an email to your kids soccer coach while on the go. Plus Siri AI sounds incredible. That’s because iPhone 18 Pro takes advantage of our most advanced on-device model ever, which powers expressive voices. You can pick from multiple options, then customize the pace and expressivity.” But we’ve seen all this before.

Siri AI will have usage limits but “most iCloud+ plans” will offer increased access.

19 mins ago, By Michael Simon

Intelligent personal hub

This isn’t a new product category but rather an explanation of what the iphone is: “First, you would want something that is always with you, deeply personal and able to bring intelligence to the moments when it matters most. You’d require a powerful processor that can run incredibly capable on-device models to quickly answer questions in the moment and pervasive networking to access knowledge and even more capable models in the cloud.

There’s no product in the world better designed to be your intelligent personal hub than iPhone.”

Jon is describing Apple Intellgence’s privacy and iPhone’s AI abiltities. “So today we’re going to take these experiences even further with the next generation of iPhone. And here it is.”

24 mins ago, By Michael Simon

This is the opening!

A video montage of actors describing how a show or movie should open and then Tim Cook starts narrating the video of “our main character, no no no,. not me, that’s your guy.” And it’s John Ternus.

24 mins ago, By Michael Simon

Here we go!

The music has faded and the blue Apple logo has given way to an iPhone 17 Pro camera, with a message, “The following was shot on iPhone.”

35 mins ago, By Michael Simon

Apple start your engines!

We’ve got less than 10 minutes until we get out first look at Apple’s folding iPhone project! Get ready everyone!

55 mins ago, By Michael Simon

30 minutes to go!

Get a snack and a drink and meet us back here at 10am PT/1pm ET for the start of the show!

2 hours ago, By Michael Simon

No surprises at Surprise and Shine

It looks like Apple’s iPhone event will be filled with more Shine than Surprises. According to Mark Gurman’s somewhat playful tweet, Apple is holding back some rumored products that are supposedly ready to launch, including the touchscreen MacBook, Apple TV 4K, and HomePad smart home hub. As he quips, “don’t worry. It’s only September.” So you can probably expect at least one more event later this fall.

3 hours ago, By David Price

A few thoughts on phone colors (and fun)

For several years now I’ve complained about the fact that basic iPhones, despite costing less, come with much nicer colors than their Pro equivalents. Why can’t Pro users have fun too?

Perhaps Apple heard me, because last year’s Pro-exclusive Cosmic Orange was arguably Apple’s funnest color yet. (I’m using that word deliberately to prepare readers for the likely grammatical crimes of today’s Apple event.) But if the pre-launch rumors are true, that was only the precursor for a huge anti-fun announcement today.

The iPhone 18 Pro, according to our sources, will come in black, silver, light blue, and a charming burgundy branded as Dark Cherry. Less fun, arguably, than the green, blue, and lilac which the iPhone 17 will continue to offer (because its successor won’t arrive until the spring). But infinitely more fun than the poor iPhone Ultra/Duo, which is expected to come in just two colors: dark blue, and white. Despite starting at $2,000, and going all the way up to $3,000 if you want the top storage tiers.

The more you pay, the less fun you get. Make it make sense, Apple.

David Price / Foundry

3 hours ago, By David Price

So, about that Duo name…

It’s been pointed out in the Macworld offices that Microsoft wasn’t the first tech company to use the name Duo on a product. Apple itself had the PowerBook Duo, a line of laptops sold between 1992 and 1999. Which therefore predate the Surface Duo by the small matter of 28 years.

More recently, there was the (not terribly good) MagSafe Duo charger. And in a matter of hours, if Mark Gurman’s sources are correct, we will get the iPhone Duo.

Christopher Phin / Foundry

3 hours ago, By Michael Simon

John Ternus teases the iPhone 18 Pro's top feature

In a tweet to followers ahead of the big event, new CEO John Ternus shared a 12-second video of a beam of light that first shines at the viewer and then pans down to shine on what appears to be a camera lens. It’s hard to see it as anything other than a tease for the iPhone 18 Pro’s rumored variable aperture camera. At any rate, it’s certainly a departure from Tim Cook’s keynote messages, which were filled with little more than vague excitement.

X/@johnternus

3 hours ago, By Michael Simon

Apple Pencil on an iPhone?

Apple has never allowed you to use your Apple Pencil on anything other than an iPad, but the folding iPhone could change that. According to Mark Gurman, the iPhone Ultra/Duo will indeed support Apple Pencil, so you’ll be able to doodle and draw on the screen just like you can on your tablet. It’s not clear whether both screens will support Apple’s stylus or just the inner one, though.

5 hours ago, By Michael Simon

iPhone 18 Pro price hike might not be so bad

We’ve been bracing for an iPhone price increase ever since Apple hiked prices on Macs and iPads by hundreds of dollars in June. A new report from Mark Gurman claims they won’t be as bad as that: Apparently the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will cost $100 more than the current models, in line with previous price hikes.

6 hours ago, By David Price

The Apple Store is down. Something is coming

As part of the usual pre-event ritual, Apple has taken down its online store. “We’re making updates to the Apple Store,” the text reads. “Check back soon.”

It’s hard to believe that a company with Apple’s resources needs five hours to update an electronic storefront, but by this point it’s become a tradition more than anything else. And maybe there’s some element of kindly advice to customers: “Please don’t buy anything this morning, it’ll be outdated by lunchtime.”

Apple

6 hours ago, By David Price

Spotted: Hardware IDs for new Apple products!

It’s not exactly a secret that Apple is about to announce a bunch of new hardware products, but it’s still surprising to see the evidence in black and white before the event begins. But sure enough, dozens of new Apple hardware identifiers have been spotted on the company’s services backend.

It’s important to note that these won’t necessarily all appear today; the iPhones and Apple Watches, for sure, but the Macs and iPads are likely to be delayed until later in the fall. (We don’t know for sure if there will be an October/November event. They may just appear in a press release.) The real enigma, however, is HomeAccessory17,1 and its two siblings. Could that be the much-anticipated smart home hub? We’ll find out in a few hours.

8 hours ago, By David Price

Breaking: Folding iPhone will be called… Duo

Forget iPhone Ultra, forget iPhone Fold… the latest breaking news is that Apple’s first ever folding handset will be called the iPhone Duo. That’s according to Mark Gurman’s sources, and he’s generally well informed when it comes to information like this.

Gurman made his last-minute prediction in an article (subscription required) this morning. He also claimed the device will start at $2,000, have a short-and-wide design, and go on sale in October, later than the other new iPhones. But we knew all that already. The name is the real bombshell.

Some may accuse Apple of copying Microsoft, whose Surface Duo was a pioneer in this field. On the other hand, maybe Microsoft should have kept that brand going; the line was discontinued nearly two years ago. The Duo brand also goes rather nicely with Neo, as in MacBook. And, please note, it was one of the options mentioned by my colleague Emma Rowley earlier this week.

More on this story here.

9 hours ago, By David Price

Don't forget the AirPods

They’ve got slightly lost in the iPhone Ultra hype, but Apple is also expected to launch the AirPods 5 today. These aren’t the camera-equipped models you may have seen doing the rounds after Apple accidentally leaked them (they’re not expected to arrive until next year). Instead, the main new feature of the AirPods 5 will be improved active noise cancellation, likely made possible by the inclusion of a new H3 chip. Bloomberg leaker Mark Gurman yesterday confirmed this–based on his sources, at any rate.

10 hours ago, By David Price

It's the big day!

After months of speculation, it all comes down to this. Today’s the day for the first ever folding iPhone, and so much more.

Welcome to Macworld’s live blog for the September 9 Apple event. The event itself kicks off at 10 am PT, and is likely to last around 70 minutes. But our coverage here will last throughout the day. We’ll be bringing you breaking news and last-minute rumors for the next 9 hours or so, before bringing you the announcements (along with our expert analysis) as they happen. Then of course there will be masses of discussion of the new products after Apple’s livestream ends.

It’s going to be fun. Enjoy the ride!

15 hours ago, By Michael Simon

More cases offer a glimpse at the new iPhone designs

Casemaker dbrand has added cases and skins for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max and the iPhone Ultra, in case you want to get a jump on buying one. This doesn’t necessarily confirm anything about the new phones other than the company thinks the rumors are pretty solid, since the design and colors they show almost perfectly match the reports we’ve been reading for months.

16 hours ago, By Michael Simon

New Apple TV could be bigger than expected

We’ve been hearing reports that a new Apple TV 4K is on the way for a while. We’re not expecting it to be much of an update, but the latest information in the rumor mill suggets that it could be bigger than we thought. According to Aaron Perris on X, the new Apple TV has an identifier of AppleTV18,1, which indicates that it will have an processor in the A19 family, making it one of the most powerful devices in Apple’s lineup and much fasterl than A15 in the current model.

What does that mean for AI features? Gaming? Smart home? We’ll find out soon.

20 hours ago, By Michael Simon

It's gotta be the shoes

It won’t just be the iPhone 18 Pro with the hot new color this year. New Balance is feeling the Dark Cherry vibes with the release of its New Balance 990v4 in a new Monarch Burgundy option. They’re not quite the 992s that Steve Jobs wore, but someone at New Balance has clearly been reading the iPhone rumors.

Foundry

22 hours ago, By Michael Simon

What's going on with the Apple Watch SE 3?

With less than a day to go before the keynote kicks off, there’s an interesting development concerning the Apple Watch SE 3. Over at Apple.com, every possible combination is listed as “currently unavailable” for delivery or pickup. And if you order one at Amazon, you won’t get a delivery date. That’s strange.

For comparison, you can order a Series 11 or Ultra 3 without a problem. I’ve been covering Apple events for many years and have never seen an entire product spontaneously disappear from the store less than a day before the event is supposed to start. I don’t know what to make of it.

Chris Martin / Foundry

23 hours ago, By Michael Simon

More Apple Watch features revealed?

A code spelunker has discovered a few clues hidden in the iOS 27 beta that point to new Apple Watch features. There’s nothing particularly groundbreaking, but the Series 12 watch will reportedly get an updated heart-rate sensor as well as a significant storage boost to 128GB. Apple last updated its heart-rate sensor with a 3rd-gen model with the Series 6, so a new sensor is definitely overdue. As far as the storage goes, it’s probably related to on-device Apple Intelligence models, because I don’t know why anyone would need that much storage on their watch.

1 day ago, By Michael Simon

Brand-new Readiness app coming to watchOS 27

Mark Gurman reports that Apple is planning to launch a new Readiness app alongside the new Apple Watches tomorrow “as a variant of the Vitals app.” The Vitals app on Apple Watch brings together key health metrics such as heart rate, sleep, and blood oxygen to give users a deeper understanding of their daily health, so this app will presumably use similar information. Gurman says this new app will “better compete with software from Whoop & Oura” along with improved heart-rate sensing on the new watches.

1 day ago, By David Price

This year's hot color: Burgundy

Rumors strongly suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will be available in a classy new Dark Cherry finish: a rich burgundy wine color. (If that’s not your bag, don’t worry. There will also be more prosaic dark gray and lightish blue options.) We expect this color to be wildly popular, much as Cosmic Orange was last year. But Apple won’t have the burgundy phone market all to itself.

Ever since the dark-red iPhone rumors started, Android manufacturers have been falling over themselves to copy Cupertino’s colorway, from the Poco F9 Ultra and Tecno Camon Slim 5G to the Huawei Pura X View and Xiaomi 18 Fold. As Tech Advisor reports, burgundy is the new orange. And pre-emptive plagiarism is the new originality.

Poco, Macworld, Huawei

1 day ago, By David Price

One More Thing… but what?

“We have great respect for these words,” said Tim Cook in 2017, “and we don’t use them lightly.” Those words, of course, were One More Thing.

That little phrase has signalled the arrival of some of Apple’s most iconic products and services, including the iMac G4, the MacBook Pro, FaceTime, the Apple Watch, Apple Music, and the iPhone X. Will it be uttered this year, and if so, what will it herald?

We discussed this on the podcast, and figured it would be a nice moment if new CEO John Ternus got the chance to utter those immortal words as part of his debut. (Debut as overall event host, that is. He’s spoken in individual segments before now.) The most obvious product to get the One More Thing treatment is the iPhone Ultra, but a bigger surprise would be the arrival of Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub. Either would work.

But Macworld readers put forward other ideas. At the less serious end, jimrock reckoned “It’d be really sick if he announced a $2,000 monitor stand” while Adam Moran proposed “One more thing: Now shipping iPhones with a charger.” Hashtag courage.

Moving on to things that could happen (but won’t), Rob K put forward “One more thing: iPhone Air 2 with 6,000 mAh silicon carbon battery, three cameras, and no stupid fold.” And Tower Lord suggested “AI-driven smart glasses. Minus the creep factor found in Meta glasses. Instead, true spatial computing. The ultimate personal computer.” Get rid of the AI part and we’re on board.

And finally, a note of sanity from Mike: “One more thing was Steve’s thing. Can we please stop measuring every CEO against Steve and let them be their own leaders?”

Apple

1 day ago, By Michael Simon

All eyes on the crease

When Apple (allegedly) unveils its first folding iPhone tomorrow, Greg Joswiak or whomever gets the honor of announcing the phone on the stream, will talk about the displays, interface, cameras, design, and anything else Apple feels is worth highlighting. What they probably won’t spend a lot of time talking about is the crease.

Ever since Samsung’s first folding phone arrived, the center display crease has been an issue. It’s gotten better over the years, but it’s still the biggest hurdle for new customers to overcome. Even on the newest phones, you can see it when it’s opened and feel a little valley while using it. It’s flies in the face of Apple’s pursuit of perfection and likely the reason why we haven’t gotten a folding iPhone until now.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Apple had devised a way to overcome the crease with a combination of ultra-thin glass (UTG) and an optically clear adhesive that allows “the folding area to be locally thinned at the bending axis to improve bendability.” Samsung’s newest flagship phone features a display with a 60-micrometer UTG layer, which is likely a similar material to what Apple will use.

No folding phone has been able to completely eliminate the crease. Will Apple be the first?

Luke Baker

1 day ago, By David Price

John Ternus and the honeymoon period

Tim Cook chose an interesting moment to resign from the CEO hotseat: September 1, a week before the biggest event of Apple’s year. It’s understood that he did this so that John Ternus could have the fun and credit of announcing the iPhone Ultra himself, and begin his reign on a positive note. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has referred to this as a “massive tailwind” for the incoming CEO.

But Gurman has plenty more to say about recent squabbles and politicking at the top of Apple’s hierarchy, and there could be some complications for the new boss. Read the Macalope’s latest article for all the dirt and some very convoluted metaphors.

1 day ago, By David Price

iPhone Ultra, or iPhone Fold?

Sad to say for an event with the word surprise in its tagline, but there don’t seem to be many mysteries left concerning the foldable iPhone. With one notable exception: its name.

In the early days, most pundits referred to the rumored device as the iPhone Fold for obvious, logical reasons. But in the spring, we all started calling it the iPhone Ultra, even though, features-wise, that doesn’t entirely make sense. And with just one day to go until the announcement, case makers still can’t decide between the two options, with some plumping for Fold and others for Ultra in their pre-launch marketing materials.

And this all assumes that Apple won’t pull a last-minute switcheroo and go for iPhone Duo or iPhone Folio instead.

Over on our sister site Tech Advisor, Emma Rowley discusses the thorny question of the foldable iPhone’s name.

1 day ago, By David Price

Will you fold?

Last year, the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone Air competed for the title of Apple’s flagship handset. The Air was certainly more interesting, but the Pro Max was a far better specced, more powerful phone (not to mention more expensive). But this year there will only be one clear winner: the iPhone Ultra. Will you yield to temptation and pay what’s likely to be more than $2,000 for Apple’s first foldable smartphone?

One commenter on our YouTube channel is leaning towards no.

“If I was purchasing an iPhone and an iPad at the same time, then I would consider the Fold as it might work out cheaper than buying two separate devices,” writes christopherclarke6184. “But I am happy with my iPad M4 and iPhone 17 Pro Max so won’t be upgrading for a while… unless Apple has something special I may need. I’ll still be watching the show, though.”

Apple will be hoping for strong interest from the early adopter crowd, but given that this is an entirely new market for the company and a very high price, moderate sales may be enough in the short term.

1 day ago, By David Price

Who is John Ternus?

One big difference this year is that the main host will be Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, rather than Tim Cook. Ternus is a relative unknown to members of the public, and Apple fans will be keen to see how he handles hosting duties. Will he be a showman, like Steve Jobs? Quietly professional, like Cook? Or something new and unique to himself?

That’s not to say we’ve got no idea how he’ll carry himself in a presentation. As head of hardware Ternus spoke at multiple keynotes and product launches in the past, including the iPhone reveal last fall. His manner was very positive, with lots of superlatives, while being unafraid to delve into technical detail. But acting as main host is a different assignment, so we may see a new side to him on Wednesday.

In the meantime, read Alex Blake’s piece on the new boss, in which he describes Ternus as “the perfect CEO for this Apple era.”

Apple

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

Folding iPhone color options will be unique

Our sources report that Apple will offer the iPhone Ultra in just two colors for its debut. The first is silver, which we expect from a new iPhone, but the other is a little different: Dark Blue. Apple regularly offers its iPhones in various shades of blue, of course, but it’s rare for a brand new model to arrive in anything other than black and white.

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

No time for Tim

According to Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, Tim Cook won’t make an appearance in this year’s keynote. While he reports that he will be at Apple Park for the event, Cook has officially and completely handed the reins to Ternus, who will be the face of the Surprise and Shine event.

2 days ago, By Roman Loyola

Surprise and Shine iPhone event: Podcast preview

On the newest Macworld Podcast, Michael Simon and Jason Cross talk about what to expect at Apple’s Surprise and Shine iPhone event. What iPhones will Apple release? How will John Ternus do in his first keynote as Apple CEO? And will there be a “One more thing”? Get ready for the event by tuning in to the podcast.

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

Cases, cases everywhere

The iPhone Ultra doesn’t exist yet, but you can find cases all over social media. It’s worth noting that case manufacturers don’t get information from Apple ahead of events, but they pay very close attention to the rumors and some probably have their own sources in the supply chain. Are they real? We’ll know in just a couple days.

2 days ago, By David Price

Surprise? What surprise?

Apple has given this week’s showcase the tagline “Surprise and Shine.” But what’s the big surprise? Apple’s September events are among its most predictable, almost always revolving around new iPhones and new Apple Watches, and sometimes new AirPods.

• September 2025: iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods
• September 2024: iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods
• September 2023: iPhones, Apple Watches
• September 2022: iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods
• September 2021: iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads

Is John Ternus going to spring a surprise in 2026? After asking this question on TikTok we’re unconvinced by the idea of an Apple alarm clock (sorry), but another reader’s proposal of a “tabletop Pixar light robot personal assistant with Siri” is a little more plausible. That sounds a lot like the rumored smart-home hub which Apple has been working on for years, and could make an appearance this week. It could even turn up as One More Thing at the end and make for a fun encore.

But ultimately the most likely outcome is that, as far as Apple is concerned, the widely expected foldable iPhone counts as the surprise. To those of us who live in the Apple rumor bubble the iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Fold) now looks like virtually a sure thing for Wednesday’s presentation, but to the wider community it’s far less well known. And officially, of course, it doesn’t even exist. Surprise!

2 days ago, By David Price

We (probably) know the new colors

Apple loves to launch at least one new color for each iPhone generation. Partly this allows the company to prune the colors which sold poorly the year before and experiment with alternatives, but the main advantage is that it allows customers to show off the fact they’ve got a new phone, even if the design is otherwise the same. Those who bought the iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange last year got some major bragging rights.

Perhaps surprisingly, the wildly popular Cosmic Orange is expected to be dropped from the range this year. The two new finishes are a little less garish: a dark-red/burgundy wine color, expected to be branded as Dark Cherry, and a light blue. Macworld exclusively revealed these colors in the summer.

If you’d like to see more of the new finishes, take a look at this leaked video, which appears to show demo models of the iPhone 18 Pro (in blue) and 18 Pro Max (in Dark Cherry).

yeux1122 on Naver

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

iPhone pre-orders might start on Saturday

Generally, Apple opens up pre-orders for all the new iPhones and Apple Watches on the Friday following the Apple event at 5am PT. However, with 9/11 falling on Friday this year, it’s likely that Apple will delay the launch one day out of respect for the anniversary. Pre-orders instead are expected to begin on Saturday at midnight PT.

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

No iPhone 18 this week

In case you haven’t been following the rumors, Apple isn’t expected to launch a new iPhone 18 this week. That means the iPhone 17 will be on shelves alongside the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus for another six months. This would be the first time (other than the budget SE and e models) that Apple has spilt the new iPhones into separate launches and could create some serious FOMO for annual updaters.

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

Read our 100% real keynote leak*

Just like last year, we’ve gotten our hands on Apple’s iPhone event keynote script ahead of the big reveal, and we’re sharing it all with you: the bad jokes, clever marketing, outrageous prices, and big surprises. Read it all before it happens.

*May not be real

2 days ago, By Michael Simon

Follow along with all the latest updates

Welcome to the Surprise and Shine live blog! You don’t need to wait till Wednesday to get up to speed on everything Apple’s releasing. Over the next two days, we’ll share rumors, features, roundups, thoughts, reader comments, and lots more. Stay right here for everything you need to know.

What are the biggest upgrades for iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max

• Unveiling at Apple’s September 9 event
• Smaller Dynamic Island, potentially with some Face ID components under the display
• Variable-aperture main camera
• A20 Pro chip built on TSMC’s 2nm process
• Apple C2 cellular modem
• New N2 wireless/networking chip
• Larger battery, particularly on the Pro Max
• Simplified Camera Control
• Revised, more seamless rear Ceramic Shield design
• Possible 5G satellite connectivity
• Likely price increase due to soaring memory and component costs

How is iPhone 18 Pro/Max different from iPhone 17 Pro/Max?

• Split release schedule (Pro first, base later)
• Smaller or modified Dynamic Island
• Some Face ID components moving under-display
• New C2 modem
• Camera experimentation (rumored variable aperture on Pro Max)

When will the new iPhones launch?

Apple has confirmed that it will hold an event on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, and new iPhones are highly likely to headline the event.

However, Apple is widely expected to change its usual release strategy this year. Multiple reports suggest suggest that only the premium models will arrive in September 2026: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new foldable iPhone Ultra.

The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e and a second generation iPhone Air are instead expected in spring 2027. If accurate, this would represent the biggest shake-up to Apple’s iPhone launch schedule in years, creating separate autumn and spring release windows.

Evidence in iOS 27 beta 5 adds weight to those reports. System files reportedly reference six unreleased iPhones: the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 18e, iPhone Air 2, and foldable iPhone Ultra. The references don’t reveal specifications, but they support the idea that Apple is preparing all six models while staggering their release dates.

Availability could also be a problem. During Apple’s Q3 earnings call, then-CEO Tim Cook, now executive chairman, warned that the impact of supply constraints would “increase significantly.”

Apple is reportedly struggling to secure enough DRAM for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra, potentially limiting production ahead of launch. Processor wafers are said to be ready, but some are reportedly waiting for memory before they can be packaged and assembled.

That could leave the iPhone 18 Pro in short supply when it goes on sale, with longer shipping estimates possible. The lower-volume iPhone Ultra may be somewhat less affected.

Most likely: The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Ultra will launch in September 2026, while the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 will follow in early 2027.

What will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max look like and what are the color choices?

The design of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max is said to resemble the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, but some changes are predicted.

One possible change, shared by a Weibo leaker in September 2025, is a “slightly transparent” ceramic shield section on the back of Pro models. This glass/Ceramic Shield area around MagSafe is now rumored to become more frosted and visually seamless.

Macworld contributor Filipe Esposito reported that a trusted source had revealed one of the new colorways for the iPhone 18 Pro to be Dark Cherry, replacing the iPhone 17 Pro’s Cosmic Orange option.

Recent rumors claimed that the new phones will be significantly thicker than previous models, but all the evidence we have seen says that’s not the case, including case maker Otter Box confidently listing their iPhone 17 Pro cases as fitting the iPhone 18 Pro. Instead, we expect the body to have about the same thickness as the iPhone 17 Pro/Max but with a thicker camera bump area.

Another report suggests that the Camera Control on the side of the iPhone will be pressure sensing instead of a touch-sensing layer. This redesign is said to be aimed at reducing the cost and complexity.

A recent ransomware attack against an Apple parts supplier included images from an iPhone 18 Pro “drop test” and other parts, and they corroborate prior rumors about the overall shape and design of the phone, which is broadly the same as the iPhone 17 Pro.

Other shades are said to include: Light Blue, Dark Gray, and Silver. There was also a coffee shade rumored (via Digital Chat Station).

As with the iPhone 17 Pro, there will be no black option, according to Instant Digital.

Screen sizes are expected to remain at 6.3 and 6.9 inches. The Pro models will also retain the wider three-camera raised plateau.

If you are hoping for a more dramatic redesign, the iPhone Ultra may have more appeal. Alternatively, you could wait for the 20th anniversary iPhone which is rumored to have a “radically different design“. Reports point to a curved, near-bezel-free display, possible solid-state haptic buttons, a thinner and brighter OLED panel, and potentially under-display Face ID and camera hardware coming in fall 2027.

Most likely: Design changes will be minimal, with the biggest visible differences limited to colors and subtle refinements.

What’s new with the iPhone 18 Pro/Max camera?

Eugen Wegmann

Apple may introduce variable aperture technology to the 48MP main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max (potentially only the Pro Max), allowing mechanical control over light intake and depth of field. This has long been a perk limited to high-end professional cameras.

If the rumor (from Digital Chat Station on Weibo), and later corroborated by Mark Gurman on September 9, is true, iPhone users will be able to mechanically control how much light reaches the sensor for the first time, allowing more control over depth of field and sharpness. This could elevate portrait shots by improving the applied depth of field effect, as well as minimizing overexposure.

Wider telephoto apertures on the Pro models should also result in better low-light performance.

For some time (since January 2025) Samsung has been said to be working on a new three-layer stacked camera sensor called ‘PD-TR-Logic,’ and this could appear in the iPhone 18 series. This image sensor is expected to enhance the camera’s responsiveness, while also offering advantages such as reduced photo noise, improved dynamic range. The main Wide camera sensor is expected to be larger than usual, which offers many benefits.

The front-facing camera may also get an upgrade beyond the rumored changes to the housing (as discussed elsewhere the selfie camera may be housed in a smaller hole-punch cut out, reducing the size of the Dynamic Island). The iPhone 17 generation features 18MP sensors for the selfie camera, but this may increase to 24MP in the next generation, according to leaker WhyLab on Weibo.

More megapixels would lead to improved video calls and better low-light performance. 

Most likely: Incremental improvements, with a new variable aperture feature on the Pro Max.

Will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max Dynamic Island or front camera change?

Britta O’Boyle

Apple hasn’t changed the Dynamic Island since the iPhone 14 Pro, but the iPhone 18 Pro may introduce some adjustments.

Some reports suggest Apple could move certain Face ID components under the display, allowing the Dynamic Island to shrink. This is not expected to mean that the entire Face ID system will be hidden beneath the screen. 

A report in December 2025 from Weibo account “Smart Pikachu” claimed that Apple was testing an under-display “micro-transparent glass panel” for some Face ID sensors. That could allow Apple to reduce the size of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 18 Pro.

Later reports, however, suggest that full under-display Face ID is not expected yet. Instead, Apple may move only some of the sensors or emitters used by Face ID beneath the display, while other components remain visible within a smaller Dynamic Island.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has also reported that Apple plans to “shrink” the Dynamic Island on future iPhone models, adding weight to the idea that Apple is redesigning or relocating some of the components currently housed within it.

On the morning of September 9, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman published a report claiming that the smaller Dynamic Island will let users toggle between three live tasks, versus the current limit of two Live Activities.

A spy shot published in March by noted leaker IceUniverse on X gives us a view of how much smaller the Dynamic Island could be.

IceUniverse/X

There have been conflicting claims that the position of the front-facing camera may also change: 

• In December 2025 The Information claimed Apple will put the Face ID sensors under the display, and move the front camera to the upper left corner in a punch-hole design. This would make the iPhone 18 Pro/ Max the first iPhones with a front camera in the corner.
• However, Prominent leaker account Instant Digital said on Weibo in January 2026 that front camera claim was based on a mistranslation, and only the infrared sensor moves under the display. Leakers ShrimpApplePro and Ross Young of DSCC corroborated Instant Digital’s claims.

Most likely: A smaller Dynamic Island, with some Face ID hardware moved under the display, rather than fully under-display Face ID.

Will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max display change?

Stephan Wiesend

Screen sizes should be consistent with the 6.3 and 6.9-inch displays on the current models, but reports suggest a massive jump in brightness from the current 1600 nits HDR and 3,000 nits peak.

According to Weibo leaker, Instant Digital, Chinese supplier BOE has revealed that Apple is targeting unprecedentedly high brightness requirements for the display. The Elec corroborated this, claiming BOE is struggling with iPhone OLED production so panel orders have been shifted to Samsung Display.

Most likely: An increase in brightness is expected, but there are no details yet on the extent of the improvement.

How powerful will the A20 Pro chip in the iPhone 18 Pro/Max be?

The iPhone 18 Pro and Max are expected to use a new A20 Pro chip, built on TSMC’s N2 (2nm) process. The move to a smaller manufacturing process should allow Apple to pack in more transistors, with TSMC claiming up to 15% better performance or 30% lower power consumption compared with its previous-generation technology.

A September 2026 leak suggests the A20 Pro could feature a 7-core GPU, up from six cores in the A19 Pro, while retaining a six-core CPU with two performance and four efficiency cores.

Perhaps more significant is the rumored move to a 96-bit LPDDR5x memory interface, 50% wider than the A19 Pro’s 64-bit interface. Combined with possible clock-speed and architectural improvements, we estimate that GPU performance could rise by around 20–30%, benefiting local AI workloads, 3D games and other graphics-intensive apps.

The A20 is also rumored to use Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging, integrating the RAM more closely with the SoC. That could improve memory bandwidth and latency, while potentially reducing power consumption.

Apple could also borrow ideas from its M-series chips, with speculation that the A20 may introduce higher-performance “super cores” similar to those used in the M5.

Apple introduced vapor-chamber cooling with the iPhone 17 Pro generation, spreading heat away from the processor more efficiently than the older graphite-based system. Gurman’s report on the morning of September 9, referrs to an updated vapor chamber cooling system alongside the A20 Pro that should allow the A20 Pro sustain its performance without getting too hot.

Most likely: A substantial underlying upgrade in performance, graphics and efficiency, although many of the improvements may be more noticeable in demanding games and AI features than in everyday use.

Will iPhone 18 Pro/Max battery life improve?

Apple works to make battery life as long as possible every year, especially in the Pro model iPhones.

A July report claimed that the battery capacity of the iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a battery capacity of 5,235 mAh on the Nano SIM model and 5,425 mAh on the eSIM-only version. That’s about 6-8% more capacity than the current model. Further reports have puts the U.S. eSIM iPhone 18 Pro Max at 5,567mAh.

The “Pro Max” variant of the iPhone gets a higher-capacity battery nearly every year, usually a couple hundred mAh more, thanks to better internal design and improving battery chemistry and manufacturing techniques. But battery life is a function of more than just battery capacity—the power use of the processor, display, and wireless radios all play an important point.

We think it’s likely the iPhone 18 Pro/Max will have higher-capacity batteries, and battery life at least as long as the iPhone 17 Pro/Max. But a significantly longer battery life is hard to predict.

Will connectivity improve (5G, Wi-Fi, satellite) with iPhone 18 Pro/Max?

• C2 and N2 chip rumors.

iPhone 18 Pro models are rumored to feature the second generation of Apple’s in-house 5G modem, the C2 chip. 

The C2 hasn’t launched yet, but it is expected to replace Qualcomm modems in at least some iPhone 18 Pro models. Qualcomm hardware may still be used in certain markets, depending on regional and carrier requirements:

• Better power efficiency
• Faster and more reliable 5G performance
• Improved mmWave support

There are also reports that the new iPhone will gain full satellite internet support, expanding beyond emergency use. In October 2025, The Information claimed that Apple is gearing up to support 5G networks that are served from satellites.

While the iPhone has offered satellite connectivity for emergency situations for years, if this rumor is true it would allow the iPhone 18 models to have full internet access via satellite, not just emergency services.

As of April 2026, Apple and Amazon have agreed to team up to provide future satellite service support. Early in April, Amazon announced that it had agreed to acquire Globalstar, who was the provider of iPhone and Apple Watch satellite connectivity (that merger is expected to close in 2027) So now iPhones and Apple Watches will now fall under Amazon Leo, Amazon’s satellite internet network.

The Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip is less certain. Apple debuted its N1 local networking chip in the iPhone 17 line, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread networking.

Earlier in 2026, analyst Jeff Pu said that the iPhone 18 Pro models will introduce a next-generation N2 chip, but leaks of a iPhone 18 Pro motherboard in July 2026 suggested Apple could retain the N1 for another generation. There is little information about what an N2 would add beyond the capabilities of the N1.

Most likely: An incremental upgrade to wireless performance, reliability and efficiency rather than a major new connectivity feature.

How much will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max cost?

With Apple increasing prices for Macs and iPads in June due to high memory and chip costs, and the iPhone 18 Pro models are also expected to become more expensive.

In August, Mark Gurman described iPhone price increases as “inevitable” as Apple faces rising memory and component costs.

As of September 9, Gurman is reporting that Apple plans to increase both Pro models by $100.

A roughly $100 increase may be the most plausible outcome. Google and Samsung have both raised flagship prices by about $100, potentially setting a benchmark Apple may be reluctant to exceed. That could put the iPhone 18 Pro at around $1,199 and the Pro Max at $1,299.

Apple could also absorb some of the higher costs itself. Recent warnings about pressure on gross margins suggest the company may accept lower profitability rather than pass the full increase on to customers.

More pessimistic estimates are higher. IDC has suggested increases of up to $200 for the Pro models, while analyst Jeff Pu has indicated that prices could rise by as much as $250 to $300.

The rumored folding iPhone could further reshape the top end of Apple’s pricing, with reports suggesting a starting price of $1,999 or more.

Most likely: A price rise of around $100 for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, although larger increases remain possible if component costs stay elevated.

Current pricing is as follows:

When is the new iPhone coming out?

Will the iPhone 18 Pro have under-display Face ID?

What chip will power the iPhone 18 Pro?

Is Apple changing its iPhone release schedule in 2026?

What camera upgrades are rumored for the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

Is Apple launching the iPhone 18 in September?

No. Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and foldable iPhone at its September 9 event, but hold the standard iPhone 18 until spring 2027.

The new split-release strategy should make Apple’s increasingly large iPhone lineup easier to manufacture, while giving its premium models the spotlight during the crucial fall launch period.

It would also create a second major iPhone launch window in spring, when the iPhone 18 is expected to arrive alongside the iPhone 18e and Air 2. There is a separate rumor that the Air 2 could effectively become the iPhone 18, but that claim remains fairly speculative at this stage.

When will the iPhone 18 and 18e release?

• iPhone 18: Expected in spring 2027 with an A20 chip, improved RAM and cameras, the iPhone 18 could even disappear entirely if Apple turns the thinner dual-camera Air 2 into its standard iPhone.
• iPhone 18e: The iPhone 18e is expected in spring 2027 with an A20 chip, 9GB RAM, C2 modem and 48MP camera, while retaining a cheaper 60Hz display and possibly gaining Dynamic Island.

While Apple has launched its standard and high-end iPhone models together ever since the first Pro phone arrived in 2019, this year looks to be different. While the Pro phones will launch in September 2026, all the evidence indicates Apple will push the iPhone 18 launch to the spring of 2027, leaving it on shelves for a full 18 months for the first time.

So if you bought an iPhone 17 at launch and are looking to upgrade, you’ll either need to spring for an iPhone 18 Pro or wait until March or April when Apple may hold a second iPhone event or at least launch the new iPhones via press release.

We also expect Apple to release the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2 at the same time – although there is a rumor that the iPhone 18 might actually be the iPhone Air 2.

“Early Apple” published a claim on X that Apple is “exploring the idea” of calling what is essentially the iPhone Air 2 the ‌iPhone 18‌ rather than launching a third device. In July Jon Prosser made a similar suggestion in a FTP video that Apple could eventually streamline the lineup around the iPhone, iPhone Pro and iPhone Ultra, with the Air serving as a stepping stone toward that strategy..

What specs will the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e have?

• A20 processor
• 9GB to 12GB RAM
• C2 modem

While the iPhone 18 Pro and Ultra will almost certainly use the new A20 Pro chip, the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to use the standard A20. Like the Pro version, it should be manufactured by TSMC using a 2nm process.

Based on the A19, we expect the A20 to retain a 6-core CPU while delivering improved performance and efficiency. The GPU will probably have five cores, although Apple could disable one core in the iPhone 18e. One of the biggest gains may come from the Neural Engine, as Apple continues to put more emphasis on on-device AI processing.

The standard iPhone 18 is also expected to get more RAM, up from the iPhone 17’s 8GB. Analyst Jeff Pu predicts a substantial increase to 12GB, matching the current iPhone 17 Pro, while Ming-Chi Kuo expects the iPhone 18 and 18e to use an unusual 9GB configuration made up of six 1.5GB memory chips. Macworld considers 9GB slightly more plausible given the global memory shortage and rising component costs.

More RAM would primarily benefit multitasking and AI. Both memory capacity and bandwidth are important when running advanced AI models on-device, so Apple has good reason to increase RAM across the range. However, if the iPhone 18 and 18e are limited to 9GB while the Pro models get 12GB, they could have less headroom for increasingly demanding Apple Intelligence features in future iOS releases. That could eventually mean some features are reduced or unavailable on the cheaper models.

Elsewhere, the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to adopt Apple’s upcoming C2 cellular modem. It isn’t yet clear whether the C2 will support mmWave in the U.S., but improvements to 5G performance and power efficiency are likely, along with the potential for expanded satellite connectivity. For Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Apple may have little reason to move beyond the N1 chip, which already supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.

Will the iPhone 18 and 18e’s cameras be improved?

David Price / Foundry

• 24MP selfie camera on iPhone 18
• iPhone 18e may retain a 12MP selfie camera
• 48MP Main cameras expected
• Revised Camera Control button on iPhone 18

The iPhone 18 could get another front-camera upgrade. Apple introduced an 18MP Center Stage camera with the iPhone 17 generation, but reports now suggest the standard iPhone 18 will move to a 24MP selfie camera. That should potentially deliver more detail and give Apple more resolution to work with for cropping and computational photography.

The rumor that the iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 could be one and the same may mean that the iPhone Air gets a second rear camera.

The situation with the iPhone 18e is less clear. While some rumors have suggested that 24MP cameras could spread across the wider iPhone 18 family, a November 2025 J.P. Morgan report said the lower-cost iPhone 18e will retain a 12MP front camera. For now, we wouldn’t assume that the 18e will get the same selfie-camera upgrade as the iPhone 18.

There has been much less information about the rear cameras. The current iPhone 17 has 48MP Main and 48MP Ultra Wide cameras, while the iPhone 17e has a single 48MP Main camera. We therefore expect the iPhone 18 to retain two 48MP rear cameras and the iPhone 18e to continue with a single 48MP Main camera, although there haven’t yet been reliable reports of major sensor upgrades for either model.

Apple may also simplify Camera Control. According to Weibo leaker Instant Digital, the iPhone 18’s button will retain pressure sensitivity but drop the capacitive sensing used by current models, potentially reducing complexity and cost. The iPhone 18e isn’t expected to gain Camera Control.

Will the iPhone 18e get a display upgrade?

David Price / Foundry

The iPhone 18 is likely to use a display similar to the iPhone 17, with up to 1,000 nits of typical SDR brightness, 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness, and up to 3,000 nits outdoors.

The iPhone 18e could get a more noticeable upgrade, although reports remain inconsistent. The current iPhone 17e uses an older display with relatively modest brightness and a notch rather than Dynamic Island. Some reports suggest the iPhone 18e will finally move to a newer panel with Dynamic Island, potentially bringing it closer to the iPhone 15, which offered up to 2,000 nits of outdoor brightness. However, the Dynamic Island upgrade remains disputed.

What does appear more likely is that Apple will continue to limit the 18e to a 60Hz display. According to Digital Chat Station, the phone will retain a 60Hz LTPS OLED panel rather than adopting the LTPO technology used for ProMotion. That would mean no 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate or Always-On display, even as those features become more widespread elsewhere in the iPhone lineup.

How much will the iPhone 18 and 18e cost?

Everything in the world of tech has gotten more expensive, thanks to chip shortages spurred on by an endless need to build more, bigger AI data centers. Apple in June raised its prices for nearly all Macs and iPads, and even aging hardware like HomePod and Apple TV. iPhone was spared, but we predict the new iPhones arriving on September 9 will carry prices at least $50-100 higher than they have in the past. And that’s likely to carry forward to the spring releases, too.

Our estimation there for is that the iPhone 18 could start at $849 or $899, and the iPhone 18e could start at $649 or $699. However, as these are Apple’s budget models, it’s possible that Apple raises prices on the Pro models but keeps the iPhone 18 and 18e at their current levels, it’s also possible that Apple could raise prices of the iPhone 17 and 17e before they are replaced. 

Should you wait for iPhone 18?

If you want the Pro models: The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be available later in 2026. But be prepared for higher prices.

If you want a standard or budget iPhone the wait for the iPhone 18 is longer. In the meantime, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e remain excellent choices.
If you want to save money, the iPhone 17 starts at $799/£799 with 256GB of storage, making it one of the best values in the lineup.

Every New Apple Product Launched in 2026… so far

Here is what Apple has already announced in 2026:

• Mac mini M6 and M5 Pro: Faster storage, upgraded connectivity, and a strong focus on AI performance: New Mac mini 2026 guide.
• Mac Studio M5 Max and M5 Ultra: Faster AI and graphics performance, increased memory bandwidth: New Mac Studio 2026 guide.
• AirPods Max 2: Improved audio and the H2 chip. Find out more here: AirPods Max 2 guide.
• MacBook Neo: Apple’s brand new, low-cost Mac laptop. Find out more here: MacBook Neo guide.
• MacBook Air M5: Now with the M5 chip. Read about the 2026 MacBook Air here: MacBook Air M5 guide.
• MacBook Pro M5 Pro & M5 Max: A significant upgrade over the M4 series. Read: MacBook Pro M5 Pro & Max guide.
• Studio Display: Finally gets Thunderbolt 5 and a better webcam.
• Studio Display XDR: With mini-LED technology and ProMotion up to 120Hz.
• iPhone 17e: The new, entry-level, iPhone replaces the iPhone 16e. Read more here: iPhone 17e guide.
• iPad Air M4: The iPad Air now has an M4 chip. Read more here: iPad Air M4 guide.
• AirTag 2: Four years on Apple updated the AirTag, read our review here: AirTag 2nd gen review.

And… RIP Mac Pro: Apple has confirmed that it is discontinuing its tower workstation.

Read on to find out what new products to expect at Apple’s next event and throughout 2026.

Every New Apple Product Launching in 2026

In the sections below we’ve split the upcoming new products into categories including Mac, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, Home, AirPods, and some new product categories.

Apple Intelligence, Siri and AI

iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate, will introduce a massive overhaul to Siri and expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities.

The All-New Siri AI

The most significant update is the transformation of Siri into Siri AI, a conversational assistant powered by Apple Intelligence.

Key Siri AI features coming later in 2026 include:

• Onscreen Awareness: Siri will understand and interact with what is displayed on your screen. For example, if a friend texts you an address, you can ask Siri to save it to a contact without leaving the app.
• Dedicated Siri App: A new standalone app will allow you to revisit previous conversations, pin important chats, and sync history across all Apple devices via iCloud.
• App Actions: Siri will be able to perform tasks within apps using natural language, such as editing a recently sent message or adding a song to a specific playlist.
• Visual Intelligence: On iPhone, a new Siri mode in the Camera app will allow users to point their phone at objects to ask questions or perform actions based on what they see. On Mac, users can select onscreen content to ask Siri questions about images or documents.
• Voice Customization: Users can personalize Siri with more natural voices and adjust the pace and expressiveness of the speech. This feature requires a M3 Mac with 12GB RAM or newer, or iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone Air and newer.

Apple Intelligence Across Apps

Beyond Siri, Apple Intelligence is being integrated system-wide to automate tasks and enhance productivity. Apple Intelligence will play a larger role across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, smart home devices, and future product categories.

Major updates include:

• Safari Productivity: The browser will automatically group tabs into topics, monitor pages for changes (like price drops) with a “Notify Me” feature, and even build custom extensions based on natural-language descriptions.
• Smarter Photo Editing: New tools include Spatial Reframing to improve composition after a photo is taken, an Extend tool to fill in missing areas when straightening horizons, and an upgraded Clean Up tool for removing distractions.
• Writing Tools and Communication: Mail and Messages will gain smarter replies that mimic a user’s writing style . System-wide Writing Tools will generate text from scratch, rewrite drafts, and adapt tone to match specific contacts.
• Image Playground: This tool has been revamped with better language models to create more natural-looking photorealistic images. It also allows users to create custom wallpapers on iOS 27.
• Intelligent Automation: The Shortcuts app will feature a “Describe a Shortcut” ability, allowing users to create complex automations simply by explaining what they want in plain English.

What new iPhones are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Foundry

Based on current industry analysis and supply chain information, Apple has some significant changes planned for the iPhone in 2026, with an iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max and the introduction of a foldable iPhone expected alongside the release of iOS 27.

iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max

• September 9, 2026 update expected at event

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to launch on September 9, 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to be the first to use Apple’s own C2 modem instead of Qualcomm’s. The base model may see a RAM increase to 12GB to better support on-device AI functions. A major redesign is expected, which could include a new Dark Cherry color, some under-display Face ID components and a smaller Dynamic Island, and the front camera could move to the upper-left corner of the display. Read about the iPhone 18 Pro here: iPhone 18 Pro rumors.

Foldable iPhone

• September 9, 2026 introduction expected at event

After years of rumors, Apple’s first foldable phone, potentially named the iPhone Duo or the iPhone Ultra, is expected to debut on September 9 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. It is expected to be a book-style foldable with a 7.8-inch inner display. Read more here: Apple’s folding iPhone rumors.

iPhone 18

• Spring 2027 launch expected

Reports suggest that Apple could delay the iPhone 18 and release that handset alongside the iPhone 18e in the spring of 2027.

Should you buy now or wait?

With prices expected to rise, buying an iPhone 17 Pro this summer was not the bad idea it would normally be, so if you bought one recently then don’t despair, you probably saved some money.

With the iPhone 18 launch not expected until the spring, now is a good time to buy an iPhone 17. Read: When is the best time to buy an iPhone.

What new iPads are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Foundry

Don’t expect major redesigns for the iPads this year. Instead, Apple is likely to focus on faster chips and other internal upgrades. That said, both the iPad and iPad mini are due for an update – particularly the entry-level iPad, which currently lacks support for Apple Intelligence. Here’s what we expect Apple to announce:

iPad mini

• Late 2026 update possible

The current iPad mini (A17 Pro) was released in October 2024, and Apple’s update cycle for this model is generally infrequent. Based on current reports and analysis, the next significant update to the iPad mini is not expected until late 2026, with some speculation pointing toward 2027.

One rumored upgrade for the 2026 iPad mini is the transition to an OLED display, which could reduce manufacturing costs and improve battery life. There is also the possibility of a slightly larger screen, with a move from the current 8.3- to 8.7-inches suggested. There is also speculation that a future foldable Apple device could potentially replace the iPad mini line entirely, though this remains uncertain.

Internal code leaks suggest the future iPad mini could be upgraded to an A19 Pro chip, which would provide a significant performance boost over the current A17 Pro. An A18 Pro chip upgrade is also possible. Read our round up of iPad mini rumors.

iPad

• Late 2026 update possible

When the standard iPad was updated in March 11, 2025, the biggest disappointment was that it featured a A16 chip and therefore didn’t support Apple Intelligence. Apple looks set to rectify that in 2026 with an upgrade to the A18 or A19 chip, with the latter offering 50% better performance. The release timeline for an iPad with an A18 or A19 chip is anticipated before the end of 2026, in fact, Apple code suggests the company may be planning an update sooner-rather-than-later.

Read more about the 2026 iPad in our rumor round up.

Should you buy now or wait?

With the iPad prices increasing in June you may want to hold off buying one now. If you are going to pay more at least get the most up-to-date model, or buy from Apple’s Refurbished Store to get a bargain. Read Should I buy an iPad now or wait?

Which Macs are worth waiting for in 2026?

2026 is expected to be a significant year for the Mac, with Apple’s first touchscreen Mac rumored as part of a MacBook Pro redesign. March 3 saw the launch of the M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro and March 4 saw Apple introduce a new entry-level laptop – the $599 MacBook Neo.

The long expected Mac Studio and Mac mini updates came in August 2026 and go on sale September 22, although some high-memory Mac Studio configurations won’t arrive until later. These Macs have become popular for running AI models locally; however, global RAM shortages – driven by AI companies purchasing large amounts of memory for data centres – have been having a knock-on effect on availability during 2026 and these RAM shortages have also had an effect on prices, with Mac prices increasing by $300 to $500 in June and in the case of the Mac mini, by a further $100 with the 2026 lannch.

One Mac that won’t be getting an update is the long-neglected Mac Pro. Apple has confirmed that the Mac Pro will be discontinued in favor of the Mac Studio.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro

• Possible late 2026 introduction

Foundry

There are rumors that the MacBook Pro will get a redesign including notch-free OLED touchscreen, potential 5G connectivity and a thinner body. At one point it was expected that this new MacBook Pro would feature M6 Pro and Max chips, but the latest indications are that Apple will use M5 Pro and M5 Max chips instead in an effort to keep the project on schedule.

Read the rumors about the M6 MacBook Pro with a touch screen.

iMac

• Unlikely 2026 update

The current M4 iMac was released in October 2024, so an M5 update might seem timely and could be released alongside other potential M5 Mac updates.

The current iMac design was introduced in 2021 and is not expected to change soon. It is still considered fresh, and its components are not outdated. However, there are calls for Apple to introduce a larger screened iMac, something that has been missed since Apple discontinued the 27-inch model. Many feel that the 24-inch screen is too small. Read about the larger iMac rumors.

Should you buy now or wait?

With the prices of Macs increasing in June due to the global RAM shortages you may want to hold off buying one now. If you are going to pay more at least get the most up-to-date model, or buy from Apple’s Refurbished Store to get a bargain. Read the following for more guidance:

• Should you buy the MacBook Pro now or wait?
• Should you buy the MacBook Air now or wait?
• Should you buy a Mac mini now or wait?
• Should you buy a Mac Studio now or wait?

Upcoming Apple Watches in 2026

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple updated all the Apple Watches in September 2025. Launching the Apple Watch Series 11 a new Apple Watch Ultra and a new Apple Watch SE. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 and a new Apple Watch Ultra 4 are expected.

With the Apple Watch rather than hardware changes the real interest tends to be the health and fitness related features. The following capabilities are expected in future iterations:

• Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring: This has been a long-rumored feature for the Apple Watch, but it is still considered to be a few years away with the technology unlikely to be ready for a 2026 release.
• AI-Powered Health and Fitness Coach: Apple has long been rumored to be working on a sophisticated AI coach. Recent reports from early 2026 suggest this project was “scaled back” to allow individual AI-driven features to ship sooner rather than waiting for a complete overhaul.
• Health+ Service Overhaul: There are ongoing rumors regarding a new service tier called “Health+” that would expand upon Fitness+. This service might integrate new AI-powered health features into a single subscription, potentially bundled with hardware purchases.
• Daily Readiness and Stress Tracking: Unlike competitors such as the Oura Ring 4 or Garmin, the Apple Watch currently lacks a “daily readiness” score or native stress tracking. Experts suggest these are obvious areas for future software or hardware updates.

Other new features could include Touch ID integration and microLED displays reaching 4,000 nits brightness. A thinner case, magnetic bands, and enhanced AI capabilities could also be on the cards.

If you have an older Apple Watch and are wondering whether to upgrade, this could be a good time as with watchOS 27 the compatibility list is smaller than ever and only the Watch SE 3, Series 9, 10 and 11, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3 – and the new models – will be compatible.

Apple Watch Ultra 4

• September 9, 2026 update expected at event

Expected to be a relatively modest update, with a faster S-series chip, improved health and fitness tracking and possibly better battery life, but no major redesign. Read more: Apple Watch 2026 updates. 

Apple Watch Series 12

• September 9, 2026 update expected at event

Rumored to bring a new S-series processor, longer battery life, enhanced health monitoring and possibly a ceramic finish, while retaining the familiar Series 11 design.

Should you buy now or wait?

If you need an Apple Watch today, the SE 3 is the safest buy, while the Series 11 and Ultra 3 are worth waiting on with new models expected in September. Waiting could bring new features, lower prices on current models, or both, making it the smarter choice for most buyers. Read more: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait?

Upcoming AirPods

According to a brief update in Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter for Bloomberg in August, Apple is aiming to launch camera-equipped AirPods this fall.

The new earbuds are expected to resemble the upcoming AirPods Pro 3, although it’s not yet clear whether they will also include a heart rate sensor.

The cameras are said to include both visible-light and infrared sensors, but they reportedly won’t be designed for taking photos or recording video, as their placement and image quality would make them unsuitable for those tasks. Instead, the cameras are expected to enable AI-powered features, such as hand gesture recognition, adapting audio based on the surrounding environment, and detecting whether someone is speaking directly to you or simply talking nearby.

Upcoming Apple Home devices

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple is expected to significantly expand its smart home ecosystem in 2026 and 2027 with new devices beyond its traditional Apple TV and HomePods.

Rumored products include a smart home hub that combines HomePod functionality with a touchscreen, an updated HomePod mini 2 and next-generation Apple TV are also expected.

This strategic push could help Apple catch up with competitors like Amazon and Google in the smart home market.

Apple’s push into the smart home market will be heavily reliant on a significantly improved Siri, which is expected to launch with iOS 27 and macOS 27 in the fall.

New and updated products are said to include:

HomePod mini 2

• Fall 2026 introduction

Foundry

A new HomePod mini is said to be on the way with a faster processor that can take advantage of the new Siri AI.

HomePod 3

• Fall 2026 introduction

A new HomePod with an updated chip is also expected.

Apple TV

• Fall 2026 update

The current Apple TV isn’t compatible with Siri so an update is needed. Apple TV leaks indicate a rumoured Apple TV is on Apple’s roadmap and that the update will bring Apple Intelligence to the set top box.

New Smart Hub

• Possible 2026 introduction

Multiple reports have suggested Apple will launch a smart home hub. Apple is said to be working on a number of HomeHub related products including a device said to mount a camera on a robot arm that can follow you around!

New Smart Display

• Possible 2026 introduction

Also rumored is an iPad-like smart display that allows you to control your home devices via HomeOS software. This may come with both a speaker base and a wall mount.

HomePod Touch

• Possible 2026 introduction

A new HomePod smart speaker with a screen is said to be coming. Read more here: New HomePod rumors.

Upcoming Vision devices, AR and spatial computing

Apple Smart Glasses

• Possible 2026 introduction, 2027 launch

Unlike the bulky Vision Pro headset, the upcoming smart glasses from Apple are expected to follow a form factor similar to the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. This will be Apple’s first product built specifically for “Visual Intelligence.” It will likely handle tasks such as live translations, music playback, phone calls, and turn-by-turn directions. Apple could provide a first glimpse or “preview” of the glasses by the end of 2026.

Vision Pro

• Possible 2027 update

Prior to 2026, Apple’s spatial computing strategy has focused on the high-end market, but reports indicate a more affordable version of the headset is in development. Apple has reportedly paused work on a successor to the high-end Vision Pro and will instead release a cheaper Vision Pro.

What will the foldable iPhone be called?

• iPhone Ultra was the long-standing favorite, but Apple may instead call it iPhone Duo.

Apple’s first foldable iPhone has picked up numerous unofficial names over the years, including iPhone Fold and iPhone 18 Fold. More recently, iPhone Ultra emerged as the most credible candidate. But on the morning of September 9, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple is set to unveil a roughly $2,000 foldable called the iPhone Duo.

The Duo name would make sense given the device’s dual-purpose design: a compact iPhone when folded and something closer to a small iPad when opened.

Until now, the evidence had pointed strongly toward iPhone Ultra. In March 2026, Gurman reported that the foldable would be positioned as part of Apple’s expanding “Ultra” tier. Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station subsequently claimed Apple was considering the same name.

More recently, Gurman said on X that “everyone calls it the Ultra internally.” That made iPhone Ultra appear increasingly likely, although it now seems possible that Ultra was simply Apple’s internal name for the project rather than its final branding.

Analyst Max Weinbach had also questioned whether “Ultra” was an appropriate name, arguing that the foldable did not necessarily fit the positioning of Apple’s other highest-end Ultra products.

Other names floated over the years include iPhone Ultra Fold, iPhone Passport, iPhone Folio and iPhone Wide. “Passport” refers to the handset’s reportedly wide, passport-like proportions when folded.

With Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event taking place on September 9, iPhone Duo is now the name to watch, although Apple has yet to confirm the branding officially.

When will the foldable iPhone launch?

• September 9, 2026 launch at Apple Event expected; retail availability may follow later

Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone at its “Surprise and Shine” event on September 9, 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. The regular iPhone 18, 18e or iPhone Air 2, are instead expected to arrive in spring 2027.

There have been conflicting reports about when the foldable will actually go on sale. Nikkei Asia reported that Apple was running behind schedule, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman subsequently said the device was still on track, and could ship at the same time as, or soon after, the iPhone 18 Pro models. Barclays analyst Tim Long has been more cautious, suggesting the foldable may not ship until December.

There is also growing evidence in Apple’s software that the device is close. In June, product designer and engineer Sam Henri Gold found references in the iOS 27 framework to variables named “foldState” and “angleDegrees,” apparently designed to tell apps whether a device is folded and at what angle. Macworld independently confirmed those findings.

Even if the iPhone Ultra (or Duo) launches on September 9, availability could be tight. During Apple’s Q3 earnings call, Apple then-CEO Tim Cook warned that that the impact of supply constraints would “increase significantly.” That raises the possibility that Apple could have limited stock initially, or begin shipping it later than the iPhone 18 Pro models.

What are the biggest trade-offs for the folding iPhone Duo/Ultra

Despite its expected “Ultra” branding and a price that could reach $2,000–$2,500, Apple’s first foldable iPhone may involve several compromises compared with the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

The biggest could be Face ID. Reports suggest the foldable will use a side-mounted Touch ID sensor instead, likely because its unusually thin design leaves less room for Apple’s TrueDepth hardware.

It may also sacrifice some camera capability. The foldable is not expected to include a dedicated telephoto camera, meaning buyers could miss out on the optical zoom available on Apple’s Pro models. That would be a significant omission on such an expensive iPhone.

The hinge also means Apple cannot use the same unibody-style construction as on a conventional iPhone, potentially affecting durability and dust resistance. The device is also expected to be eSIM-only worldwide.

There have been questions over MagSafe and wireless charging, partly because of the unusual construction of the rear casing, although more recent reports suggest MagSafe may ultimately be included.

Finally, the foldable is expected to run a specially adapted version of iOS rather than iPadOS. Its larger internal display should enable improved multitasking, but it may still fall short of the more desktop-like productivity experience available on an iPad.

Taken together, those compromises mean the iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Duo) could offer something genuinely new without necessarily being the most fully featured iPhone Apple sells. For some buyers, the iPhone 18 Pro Max may remain the more complete flagship.

Foundry

What will the folding iPhone look like? How will it fold?

• Book-like design with a vertical fold rumored
• Intended to be an iPhone/iPad hybrid
• Available in silver/white and Indigo Blue

Apple’s rumored iPhone Ultra or iPhone Duo is reportedly nearing mass production, with its design largely finalized. Here’s what current leaks suggest about how the foldable iPhone will look and how the hinge and display may work.

What color will the iPhone Ultra/Duo be?

The iPhone Ultra/Duo is expected to launch in just two color options: silver/white and dark blue.

Back in August, we reported that Apple was working on an Indigo option for its folding phone. Our sources also say that Apple does not currently plan to offer its first folding iPhone in black or space gray. The blue finish is expected to be particularly dark, reportedly closer to the iPhone 17 Pro’s Deep Blue than the MacBook Neo’s Indigo.

A subsequent leak shared by Sonny Dickson on Bluesky added weight to those reports, with photos reportedly showing camera protectors in silver and a deep blue shade that could resemble Indigo, Midnight or the iPhone 17 Pro’s Deep Blue.

The leaked camera protector matches previous design rumours, showing a horizontal rounded camera bar with openings for two cameras, a microphone and flash.

Book-style, iPad hybrid, design

Multiple leaks point to a book-style foldable with a large, tablet-like internal display, rather than a compact flip-phone design. The device is expected to function as a hybrid between an iPhone and an iPad.

This “passport-style” design will appear noticeably squarer than a traditional iPhone when closed. When unfolded, it’s rumored to resemble an iPad mini-like screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, offering a more expansive viewing experience.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in 2025 that Apple’s foldable will adopt a dual-display setup, with a strong focus on achieving a near crease-free screen when opened.

Other 2025 leaks, including reports from Digital Chat Station on Weibo, also point to a vertical, book-style fold where the left and right sides close together – similar to devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold.

Dummy models shared by Sonny Dickson on X in April 2026, demonstrate this book-like form factor.

Sonny Dickson

Additional dummy unit images from tech YouTuber Vadim Yuryev, further reinforce this wide, book-like “passport” design.

Vadim Yuryev

In December 2025, this 3D image of the so called iPhone Ultra, based on leaked CAD files, was created by a hobbyist and shared on MakerWorld (now removed), also aligning with these design expectations.

Subsy/MakerWorld

However, alternative concepts have existed. In 2024, The Information reported that Apple had explored clamshell-style prototypes, where the device folds top-to-bottom, similar to traditional flip phones.

This design direction may already be influencing competitors. Our colleagues on TechAdvisor report that Samsung is developing a “Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide” with a similar 4:3 aspect ratio, potentially positioning it as a direct rival to Apple’s iPhone Ultra/Duo.

How Apple is overcoming hinge design and crease reduction challenges

Adding a hinge to an iPhone introduces significant engineering challenges that Apple has spent years trying to resolve. While competitors have released multiple generations of foldables, Apple’s slower entry to the market is widely attributed to its focus on refining the hinge and delivering a more seamless user experience.

The biggest technical challenge is the visible and tactile crease where the screen folds. Apple has reportedly made this a priority, aiming to minimise it to the point of being nearly imperceptible.

Weibo leaker Instant Digital claims the iPhone Ultra’s (or Duo) internal design will make it the most repairable folding phone on the market, with elegant modular and stacked elements that minimize interconnects and ribbons.

As a result, the hinge is expected to be a defining feature of the iPhone Ultra//Duo, combining advanced materials and engineering to deliver a smoother, more durable folding experience.

To maintain both thinness and durability, Apple is reportedly testing high-end materials for the hinge:

• Titanium alloy (rumored for structural strength)
• LiquidMetal, according to Ming-Chi Kuo (March 2025), for improved durability, better screen flatness, and reduced creasing.

In July 2025, Kuo reported that Apple had developed a method to reduce crease visibility using metal support plates to better distribute and control bending stress. Apple may use this “laser-drilling metal plate technology” rather than conventional etching to create a more precise microstructure.

Apple also holds several patents for foldable mechanisms which, along with several rumored technologies, may be used:

• Variable Thickness Glass: A key part of Apple’s approach is said to involve variable thickness display glass, which is thinner at the fold point to reduce stress during repeated use. This is expected to work alongside an optically clear adhesive layer, designed to further minimise strain and help prevent the visible crease that commonly develops in foldable devices over time.
• Stress-Reducing Adhesive: An optically clear adhesive designed to reduce strain on the display during folding.
• Ultra-Thin Profile: Expected thickness of around 4.5mm unfolded and 9.5mm folded.
• Internal Support: Metal plates beneath the display to maintain a completely flat surface when opened.

In March 2026, reports suggested that Samsung Display – Apple’s primary screen supplier – has developed a near-creaseless OLED panel, showcased at CES 2026 specifically to meet Apple’s standards.

How big will the foldable iPhone Ultra/iPhone Duo be?

• Approx. 9.5mm thick when folded
• Approx. 4.5mm when unfolded

According to Jon Prosser in December 2025, Apple’s foldable iPhone could measure around 9.5mm when closed and just 4.5mm when open. For context, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is 8.5mm thick, while the iPhone Air measures 5.6mm.

If accurate, this would make the iPhone Ultra/Duo one of the slimmest foldables, highlighting Apple’s focus on minimising bulk despite the hinge.

However, when asked about the thickness of the iPhone Ultra/Duo in April 2026, YouTuber Vadim Yuryev said it would be “exactly 11mm”, which is larger than Prosser’s prediction. He also claimed it would be 0.36mm taller and 0.39mm wider than the iPhone 17 Pro.

Other design features

A leak from Weibo account Instant Digital in February 2026 indicates the volume buttons will be on the top edge, aligned right.

How big will the folding iPhone screens be?

The iPhone Ultra/Duo is widely expected to feature:

• Approx. 7.7–7.8-inch internal display
• Approx. 5.3–5.5-inch external display

Ming-Chi Kuo (2025) and TrendForce (July 2025) both pointed to a 7.8-inch inner and 5.5-inch outer display, while The Information later suggested slightly smaller sizes of 7.7 inches and 5.3 inches. This suggests Apple may still be refining final dimensions.

However, a December 2025 report from The Information slightly revised these figures to 7.7 inches internally and 5.3 inches externally, indicating that Apple may still be fine-tuning the final dimensions.

When unfolded, the device is expected to feature a 4:3 aspect ratio, aligning it more closely with the iPad and reinforcing its positioning as a productivity-focused, hybrid device. This would be a notable departure from the tall, narrow displays seen in earlier foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series.

This wider layout is said to:

• Improve multitasking
• Enhance document reading and web browsing
• Deliver an experience closer to an iPad mini

What specs will iPhone Ultra/iPhone Duo offer?

• A20 Pro chip, 12GB RAM, C2 modem expected

The iPhone Ultra (or Duo) is expected to use Apple’s A20 Pro chip, the same flagship processor tipped for the iPhone 18 Pro models. Supply-chain reports also point to 12GB of RAM and storage options reaching as high as 2TB.

Apple is also expected to use more of its own wireless silicon. That could include the C2 cellular modem alongside an Apple-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth. 256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB capacities are to be expected.

One notable feature is MagSafe charging. In September 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said the folding iPhone will support MagSafe, contradicting earlier reports that Apple might omit it because of the device’s unusual construction.

Battery capacity could be another headline feature. Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital has claimed the iPhone Ultra/Duo will have a combined capacity of around 5,000 to 5,500mAh, potentially making it the largest battery ever fitted to an iPhone.

That capacity may be split between the two halves of the device. References to “batteries” rather than “battery” found in the iOS 27 beta have fuelled speculation that Apple is preparing software support for a dual-battery folding iPhone.

What cameras will the foldable iPhone have?

The foldable iPhone is expected to use a dual-camera system on the rear, with two 48MP sensors arranged on a long, thin “plateau” similar to the iPhone Air. Reports suggest the camera bar will be black rather than color-matched to the rest of the phone.

There is still some uncertainty over the exact lens combination. More recent reports point to a wide and telephoto setup, while earlier rumors suggested Apple could omit the telephoto lens and instead use wide and ultrawide cameras. If the telephoto camera is missing, it would be a significant compromise for such an expensive “Ultra” model.

The foldable is also expected to have two front-facing cameras – specified to be the usual 18MP Centre Stage cameras by TrendForce in June – allowing one to be used when the phone is closed and another when it is unfolded. Leaks have suggested Apple could combine an under-display camera with a second punch-hole camera.

A November 2025 JP Morgan report also claimed Apple could omit LiDAR and optical image stabilization, although those details remain uncertain.

Not all the rumors point to cutbacks. Tech YouTuber Vadim Yuryev claimed in April 2026 that the camera sensors could actually be physically larger than those used in the iPhone 17 Pro.

How much will the folding iPhone Ultra cost?

• Premium price expected: $2,000 or more

Apple’s first folding iPhone is expected to sit at the very top of the iPhone lineup, with most reports pointing to a starting price of around $2,000.

Analyst Arthur Liao has predicted a price of up to $2,399, based on the high cost of components such as the folding display and hinge, as well as Apple’s usual premium margins.

A September 2026 TrendForce report puts the likely starting price at $2,099 to $2,299, with higher-capacity configurations potentially exceeding $3,000.

Reports from Weibo leakers have suggested a starting price of RMB 15,999 in China for the 256GB model, rising to RMB 19,999 for 1TB. Using the pricing relationship of comparable Apple products, that would broadly translate to around $1,999 to $2,399 in the U.S.

Taken together, the rumors suggest the iPhone Ultra/Duo will start at roughly $2,000, with higher-storage models costing considerably more.

FAQ

Why is Apple making a folding iPhone now?

If you’re wondering why Apple is only launching a folding iPhone now – years after Samsung introduced the Galaxy Fold in 2019 – the answer may lie in Apple’s long-standing approach to new product categories. Rather than being first to market, Apple often waits for a technology to mature before entering the space.

When Steve Jobs unveiled the original iPhone in 2007, he talked about how the rest of the market was constrained by physical keyboards and styluses, but the iPhone would instead have a multi-touch display that could change depending on the task. Apple may be taking a similar approach with foldables. The company appears to believe that display technology, durability, and consumer interest have finally reached a point where a folding iPhone could appeal to mainstream buyers rather than just early adopters.

In other words, Apple’s goal may not be to invent the foldable phone, but to make it a product that millions of people actually want to use every day.

Will the iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Duo) replace the iPhone Pro Max?

It is thought that rather than replace the Pro Max handsets, Apple will position the foldable as a new tier above it – similar to how the Apple Watch Ultra sits above the standard Watch lineup. That would allow Apple to maintain premium pricing without disrupting existing flagship models.

When will the foldable iPhone actually go on sale?

The folding iPhone is expected to be announced at Apple’s September event on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, but the phone may not go on sale for some time after that date. Reports suggest the device could go on sale sometime between October and December 2026.

2027 iPad release date: When will Apple launch the next entry-level iPad?

• Early 2027 launch predicted

In a July 2026 report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said that Apple has scheduled the release of the entry-level iPad for “as early as the first calendar quarter next year.” Previously, Gurman had reported that the new entry-level iPad was “on the roadmap for a release in the iOS 26.4 timeframe, which runs until May.”

Why the later ship date? It’s possible that Apple needs to ensure sufficient supply of whichever chip it chooses (A18, A19, or A20) and may also be waiting for its Apple Intelligence features to be fully ready. This includes ongoing work to improve next-generation Siri AI, which is part of the iPadOS 27 update that will be released in the fall.

A delay is more likely to be strategic than technical. Apple did not update the base iPad during its March 2026 launch event, despite releasing the M4 iPad Air. Holding back the entry-level iPad helps avoid cannibalising sales of more expensive models, and staggered releases like this are typical of Apple’s product strategy.

Should you wait?

We recommend waiting for the 2027 iPad if you’re considering an upgrade. The next-generation iPad is expected to deliver a meaningful upgrade with a faster chip, more RAM, and support for Apple Intelligence, making it a much more future-proof choice.

2027 iPad chip: Will the new iPad use the A18 or A19 chip?

• A18 or A19 chip expected
• 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU likely
• N1 chip for improved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The next iPad is expected to use either the A18 or A19 chip, with conflicting evidence pointing to both possibilities. Macworld has seen internal Apple code specifically linking the new J581 and J582 models to the A19, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported in March 2026 that Apple had prepared an A18-powered model. It’s possible Apple has tested multiple configurations or subsequently changed its plans.

The A18, which debuted in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus in 2024, would be a substantial upgrade over the A16 in the current iPad. Crucially, it would also bring the 8GB of RAM needed to support Apple Intelligence.

However, there is strong evidence for the A19 as well. As we reported in December 2025, leaked Apple code linked the J581 and J582 iPad models to the A19 chip used in the iPhone 17.

Until further information emerges, either chip remains plausible. Reports of A18 Pro shortages, linked to demand for the MacBook Neo, shouldn’t necessarily affect supplies of the standard A18.

What to expect

• A18 chip: Features a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU in the iPhone 16. Apple could use the same configuration or a binned version in the iPad. It should provide a substantial performance increase over the A16, while 8GB of RAM would enable Apple Intelligence.
• A19 chip: Also features a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU in the iPhone 17. If Apple uses it, the A19 would offer a larger performance upgrade over the A16 while likewise providing the memory required for Apple Intelligence.

Other specs

We have seen internal-code that indicates the new iPad will contain Apple’s N1 wireless chip. First introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup, the N1 handles Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity. Its inclusion could bring Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.x, upgrading the current iPad’s Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.

For cellular models, Apple will likely use its in-house C1 modem (or a variant of it), continuing its shift away from third-party suppliers while improving efficiency and integration.

Why does Apple Intelligence matter for the iPad?

Apple Intelligence introduces a range of AI-powered features designed to enhance creativity, productivity, and real-time communication, including:

• Image Generation: Tools like Image Playground and Genmoji allow users to create custom visuals and personalized emojis from text prompts.
• Live Translation: Integrated into FaceTime and Messages, this feature provides real-time translated captions during calls, effectively giving every user a personal translator.
• Photo Editing: The “Clean Up” tool uses AI to identify and remove unwanted background objects from photos, a task that previously required complex manual editing.
• Writing Tools: System-wide rewriting, proofreading, and summarization in apps such as Mail and Notes.
• Smart Shortcuts: Automation of repetitive tasks using intelligent actions and text summarization.
• Priority Management: AI-driven Priority Notifications and Priority Inbox to surface time-sensitive information.

These features require at least 8GB of RAM and a more powerful Neural Engine, which means Apple Intelligence is currently limited to M-series iPads (Air and Pro) and the A17 Pro iPad mini.

By contrast, the standard iPad with the A16 chip (released in March 2025) does not support Apple Intelligence. This is a notable limitation for long-term value, especially as future versions of iPadOS are expected to rely increasingly on AI-driven features.

2027 iPad display: No OLED or ProMotion

• Same 10.9-inch LCD
• No OLED display
• No ProMotion

While there are reports that the other iPads (mini, Air and Pro) could get new OLED panels with richer colors and deeper contrast in 2027, the base model is unlikely to evolve from its LCD panel.

We expect the upcoming iPad to have the same 11-inch Liquid Retina display 2360-by-1640 display with 500 nits of brightness and 60Hz refresh rate that it has had since 2022.

2027 iPad design: No new design

Apple

The A19 iPad is also expected to have the same dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches (248.6 x 179.5 x 7 millimeters) and weigh 1.05 pounds (477 grams). 

We haven’t heard anything about new colors, but since Apple hasn’t changed the color palette (blue, pink, yellow, silver) since its original release, it’s possible we get a couple of new options.

2027 iPad cameras: Will Apple update the FaceTime camera?

Britta O’Boyle

• 12MP rear camera 
• 12MP Center Stage front camera 

The current iPad has two 12MP cameras, with the front ‘FaceTime’ camera having support for Center Stage. Apple isn’t expected to make changes to the camera for the upcoming iPad. 

However, the company did change the Centre Stage camera with the arrival of the iPhone 17, and the new ‘square’ 18MP camera could be used on the front of the new iPad, but there are no reports indicating this will be the case.

This front-facing camera has a larger, square sensor that supports automatic subject framing, orientation-agnostic capture, and advanced video features. On the iPad the 18MP camera could translate to improved video quality. However, current iPads already support smart framing during video calls so that aspect of the design may not be necessary.

2027 iPad price: Will Apple keep the entry-level iPad affordable?

After launching at $449 in 2022, Apple cut the price of the entry-level iPad to $349 in May 2024, then doubled the starting storage from 64GB to 128GB with the 11th-generation model. However, in June 2026, Apple raised the price back to $449 due to supply-chain shortages. That makes the current A16 model considerably less attractive with a more capable, AI-ready replacement expected in early 2027. It’s also possible Apple could raise the price again when the new model arrives.

When is Apple’s next event?

• Today: Wednesday September 9, 2026

Apple announced the date of its September event on August 26, two weeks before the event was scheduled to be held – September 9.

As in previous years, Apple will livestream the event, allowing viewers around the world to watch the company unveil its latest products. One notable change this year is that the keynote is expected to be hosted by John Ternus, who has succeeded Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO.

Watch the stream here:

What will Apple announce at today’s event?

What time does the next Apple event start in U.S., U.K. and other global time zones

How long do Apple events usually last?

How often does Apple hold events?

Does Apple take part in other events?

Does Apple ever announce products without an event?

How to watch an Apple event

When is the iPhone event and what will launch?

Apple

When is the iPhone event?

• September 9, 2026

Apple’s iPhone launch event has become a regular fixture in September (aside 2020, when the event was delayed until October – and the early January launches).

What will Apple launch at the September 2026 event?

We can be pretty confident that at least one new iPhone will launch in late 2026, although there may be some changes to the line up: we may see the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max launch in September, but the iPhone 18 is expected to be held back until the spring of 2027. There are also rumors of a folding iPhone – supposedly called the iPhone Ultra or Duo launching in September.

Alongside the new iPhone 18 Pro we may see new Apple Watches. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 should get a chip update, since the Series 11 is using the same chip as the Series 10 did. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is said to be getting an update too. And we may also see new AirPods.

Apple is also rumored to have some upgrades coming to the HomePod and Apple TV to better equip them for Siri AI.

Find out more about the September iPhone event in our dedicated article.

Will Apple have a second fall event in 2026?

Apple

Will there be a late fall event in 2026?

The last time Apple held a late fall event was October 30, 2023, and before that October 18, 2021. So a late fall event isn’t unprecedented, but it is uncommon. Right now there is no way of knowing if Apple will hold a late fall event in 2026, or indeed, if it ever will again. Usually this event is to launch consumer Macs, but in recent years Apple hasn’t felt the need to hold an event to do that. Nearer the time we will know if there are big things planned that might warrant an event.

What will Apple launch at the late fall 2026 event?

Mac or iPad launches are the most likely reasons for an Apple event during this timeframe, but Apple has not felt the need to hold a dedicated Mac event since the “Scary Fast” presentation in 2023, when it introduced the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips alongside updated MacBook Pro models. There could still be Mac-related announcements this year: the rumored touchscreen MacBook Pro could make an appearance.

The timing of any new Mac releases will likely depend on whether the supply chain has fully recovered from the component shortages that have affected the industry throughout the year. These shortages have also led Apple to raise prices for iPads and Macs.

As for iPads, a new iPad or iPad mini are long overdue, so an October event would be a likely venue for those launches, if they don’t arrive in September. The chip shortages may affect the iPad too.

For more information about Apple’s late fall events read: Apple’s October Event: Date, time and what will launch.

Will Apple hold a spring event in 2027?

Michael Simon / Foundry

Apple’s spring events have become increasingly unpredictable. The company has not held a traditional spring event since May 2024, although it did invite members of the media, including Macworld, to a “Special Apple Experience” in 2026.

Rather than a keynote presentation, the March 4, 2026 gathering was a hands-on showcase that followed three days of product announcements, including the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, and M5 MacBook Air.

Will Apple take a similar approach to spring product launches in 2027? It’s certainly possible. The format appeared to work well, allowing each product announcement to receive its own media coverage rather than competing for attention during a single event.

Apple is expected to release three iPhone models in spring 2027 – or it could be two new iPhones, with the Air and iPhone 18 merging.

• iPhone 18 (base model)
• iPhone 18e
• iPhone Air 2

Apple may also update the MacBook Air with an M6 processor in spring 2027. A report from early August 2026 notes that Apple is currently struggling with memory shortages that are impacting MacBook Air stock, and the M6 update is seen as a potential, though not guaranteed, fix for the supply issues.

When is WWDC 2027

Foundry

When is the WWDC keynote?

In 2026 the WWDC keynote was on Monday June 8. In 2025 it started on Monday June 9. We expect WWDC will start on Monday 7 June in 2027.

WWDC generally runs from the Monday to Friday in the second week of June.

What Apple could launch at WWDC

WWDC is Apple’s big developer event at which it reveals plans for the operating systems that run on Apple hardware.

In June 2027 we expect Apple to unveil details of the iOS 28, iPadOS 28, the new macOS 28, updates to watchOS, tvOS, HomePod software, and an update to Apple’s realityOS.

Apple sometimes announces new hardware at WWDC, usually the high end models targeted at power users, so we could see new Macs.

Following the keynote on the Monday, developer events and sessions will run throughout the week. You can read more about WWDC date, times and everything you need to know in a separate article.

What did Apple launch at past events

So far in 2026 Apple has held an ‘experience’, which rather than being an event in the traditional sense, was a chance for journalists to get a look at products Apple had launched in the days prior, including MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e. The company also hosted the WWDC keynote on June 8, at which it revealed its plans for Apple Intelligence and Siri in iOS 27, macOS 27 and the other operating systems.

In 2025 Apple only held two events. The first was its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9, at which it introduced the new features coming in the next version of its operating systems, and the second was the huge September 9 Apple Event where it launched new Apple Watches, new AirPods Pro and the new iPhones for 2025.

Apple doesn’t have to hold an event to launch new products though. Prior to WWDC, Apple launched a new iPhone 16e via press release on February 19, a new iPad and iPad Air via press release on March 4, and a new MacBook Air and Mac Studio on March 5.

Apple then went on to launch a new M5 MacBook Pro and M5 iPad Pro in October. No event was held to mark these launches.

In 2024, Apple held three events: one on Tuesday, May 7, at which it launched new iPads; a keynote to kick off WWDC on June 10; and an event on September 9 at which Apple unveiled the new iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4. In October 2024 there was no event, but Apple did announce new products (iMac, Mac mini and MacBook Pro) via press release.

In 2023 there were three events: WWDC in June, an iPhone event in September, and Apple’s second fall event on October 30 (or after midnight on October 31 if you weren’t in the U.S.).

In 2022 Apple held three events: a spring event on March 8, WWDC on June 6, and the iPhone 14 launch on September 7. In other years Apple has held four events though.

Foundry

When were Apple’s past events?

Spring Apple events have been held on the following dates:

• 2026: ‘Experience’ Wednesday March 4
• 2025: No event
• 2024: Tuesday May 7
• 2023: No event
• 2022: Tuesday March 8
• 2021: Tuesday April 20
• 2020: No event
• 2019: Monday March 25
• 2018: Tuesday March 27
• 2017: No event
• 2016: Monday March 21
• 2015: Monday March 9
• 2014: No event
• 2013: No event
• 2012: Wednesday March 7

WWDC events have fallen on the following dates:

• WWDC 2026: June 8 (8-12)
• WWDC 2025: June 9 (9-13)
• WWDC 2024: June 10 (10-14)
• WWDC 2023: June 5 (5-9)
• WWDC 2022: June 6 (6-10)
• WWDC 2021: June 7 (7-11)
• WWDC 2020: June 22 (22-26)
• WWDC 2019: June 3 (3-7)
• WWDC 2018: June 4 (4-8)
• WWDC 2017: June 5 (5-9)

Here are the past few Apple September event dates:

• 2025: Tuesday, September 9
• 2024: Monday, September 9
• 2023: Tuesday, September 12
• 2022: Wednesday, September 7
• 2021: Tuesday, September 14
• 2020: Tuesday, September 15
• 2019: Tuesday, September 10
• 2018: Wednesday, September 12
• 2017: Tuesday, September 12

In the past, Apple has held a second fall event on the following dates:

• 2025: No event
• 2024: No event
• 2023: Monday, October 30
• 2022: No event
• 2021: Monday, October 18
• 2020: Tuesday, October 13 and Tuesday, November 10
• 2019: No event
• 2018: Tuesday, October 30
• 2017: No event
• 2016: Thursday, October 27
• 2015: No event
• 2014: Thursday, October 16
• 2013: Tuesday, October 22
• 2012: Tuesday, October 23
• 2011: Tuesday, October 4

2026 iPad mini release date: When will the new iPad mini launch?

• Late 2026/early 2027

Apple has not officially announced a launch date for the next iPad mini. Earlier reports pointed to a release before the end of 2026, but more recent reporting leaves open the possibility that it could slip into early 2027.

Back in October 2025, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that a new iPad mini with an OLED display was among the devices Apple expected to launch before the end of 2026. Then, in July 2026, he narrowed that down further, reporting that the OLED iPad mini was scheduled for an October 2026 release.

However, in September 2026 Gurman included the iPad mini in a broader list of products expected to ship in late 2026 or early 2027, introducing some uncertainty around the exact timing.

There is still strong evidence that the new model is approaching. References to an upcoming iPad mini have reportedly been found in the macOS 26.7 release candidate, while Samsung Display is said to have begun mass production of OLED panels for the device.

The iPad mini also has a relatively unpredictable release cycle, with Apple sometimes leaving several years between updates. Wider component constraints, including pressure on RAM and other parts highlighted by Apple CEO Tim Cook earlier in 2026, could also affect the schedule, although there is no firm evidence that these have delayed the iPad mini specifically.

2026 iPad mini chip: Performance and specs 

• A19 Pro chip
• C1X modem
• N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6

Since it hasn’t been updated in over a year, the next iPad mini is expected to receive several silicon upgrades. The current model features an A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and Apple Intelligence support, while most rumors point to the new model adopting the A19 Pro..

In August 2025, MacRumors reported that Apple code appeared to reveal an A19 Pro-powered iPad mini. Further evidence emerged in December 2025, when Macworld reported internal Apple code indicating that the entry-level iPad would move to an A19 chip. Since Apple has traditionally given the iPad mini a more powerful processor than the standard iPad, that strengthens the case for the A19 Pro.

An A19 Pro would represent a substantial upgrade over the current A17 Pro. Users could expect faster on-device AI processing, improved gaming performance, and quicker photo and video editing. The A18 Pro, which powers the MacBook Neo, is often compared to the M1 chip and can rival the M3 in some single-core workloads. An A19 Pro-powered iPad mini would push the device even closer to iPad Air-level performance.

An A19 Pro would deliver a substantial performance boost over the A17 Pro, particularly for on-device AI, gaming, and photo and video editing, while bringing the iPad mini closer to iPad Air-level performance.

There have also been suggestions that Apple could use either the A18 Pro or A20 Pro, depending on timing and chip availability, but the A19 Pro currently appears the most likely option.

Alongside the processor upgrade, Apple is expected to bring its latest wireless technologies to the iPad mini. The N1 chip, introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup, supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, and is expected to spread across the iPad lineup. Cellular models are also expected to adopt Apple’s C1X modem.

Alongside processor upgrades, Apple is expected to bring its latest wireless technologies to the iPad mini. The N1 chip, introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup, supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, and is expected to spread across the iPad lineup. Cellular models are also expected to adopt Apple’s C1X modem.

2026 iPad mini: Display

• OLED display upgrade

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

The biggest display upgrade rumored for the next iPad mini is the adoption of OLED technology. Following Apple’s transition of the iPad Pro to OLED in 2024, multiple reports have suggested that the iPad mini will be the next iPad to make the switch. Ross Young of DSCC was first to claim, in a tweet in October 2024, that the next iPad mini would have a OLED.

The current iPad mini, released in October 2024, still uses a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, but industry sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, indicate a move to OLED is increasingly likely.

The transition from LCD to OLED would represent one of the most significant upgrades in the iPad mini’s history. Unlike LCD panels, which rely on a backlight, OLED displays illuminate each pixel individually. This allows pixels to switch off completely when displaying black content, resulting in deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and improved HDR performance.

Key benefits of OLED include:

• Superior contrast and true blacks: Individual pixel control allows OLED displays to produce true blacks and extremely high contrast.
• More vibrant colours: OLED can make images appear more vivid and punchy, particularly in high-contrast scenes and HDR content.
• Faster response times: Quicker pixel response can reduce motion blur and ghosting when gaming or watching fast-moving video.
• Better viewing angles: Colours and contrast remain more consistent when the display is viewed from the side.
• Potential efficiency benefits: OLED can use less power when displaying darker content and can enable thinner display assemblies, although bright screens may consume more power, so battery-life gains aren’t guaranteed.

An OLED panel could also enable Apple to reduce bezel sizes, potentially increasing the display area slightly without significantly changing the tablet’s overall dimensions. Some reports suggest the screen could grow from 8.3 inches to around 8.5 inches as a result – more on that below.

While the iPad mini is unlikely to inherit premium display technologies such as ProMotion or the tandem OLED architecture used in the iPad Pro, the move to OLED would still deliver a noticeable improvement in visual quality, with richer blacks, better contrast, improved colour reproduction, and stronger HDR performance.

For users who prioritise display quality, an OLED iPad mini would address one of the most frequently cited limitations of the current model and bring the compact tablet much closer to the viewing experience offered by Apple’s premium devices.

2026 iPad mini: Design

• Same size, bigger screen possible
• More water-resistant design rumored

Apple

The iPad mini has retained the same design since its major redesign in 2021, and the 2026 model is expected to keep that overall look. However, Apple could increase the display size slightly while maintaining the device’s current dimensions.

In December 2024, analysts at Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) suggested in a supply chain analyst report that the next-generation iPad mini could feature an 8.5-inch display, up from the current model’s 8.3-inch panel. The reports indicated that the chassis size would remain unchanged, meaning Apple could achieve the larger screen through slimmer bezels rather than a larger body.

A larger display may also help the iPad mini maintain its place in Apple’s lineup as foldable devices arrive. Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone – often referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra – is expected to feature an inner display measuring between 7.6 and 7.8 inches with a 4:3 aspect ratio, putting it close to the iPad mini’s screen size. While still smaller than the iPad mini, such a device could appeal to some users who currently favour Apple’s smallest tablet.

Another rumor gaining traction is that the new iPad mini will be more water-resistant. That rumor comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who in October 2025 claimed Apple was developing a next-generation iPad mini with a significantly more water-resistant chassis.

The design changes could include:

• Redesigned casing with improved sealing around ports.
• According to Gurman, a new speaker system could use vibration-based audio technology to eliminate traditional speaker holes.

There’s also a strong possibility of new colour options. Apple currently offers the iPad mini in Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray, while the previous generation was available in Pink, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray.

2026 iPad mini: Cameras 

• Little or no camera upgrade expected

Foundry

The current iPad mini has a 12MP Wide rear camera and 12MP Ultra Wide Center Stage front camera, and there are no credible reports suggesting major camera system upgrades for the next iPad mini.

The most likely change concerns camera placement rather than camera hardware. Apple has moved the front-facing camera to the landscape edge on its latest iPad models, and the iPad mini could follow suit to improve the experience during video calls and FaceTime sessions when used with a keyboard or stand.

While the cameras themselves may remain unchanged, image quality could still benefit from improvements to the image signal processor and computational photography capabilities of a newer A-series chip.

2026 iPad mini: Price 

The iPad mini had held the same $499/£499 starting price since its 2021 redesign. That changed in June 2026, when Apple increased the entry-level price to $599/£599.

With Apple having already raised the price this year, we think another increase with the next iPad mini is unlikely, although the move to OLED could put some pressure on costs.

Should I wait to buy a new iPad mini?

The current iPad mini’s A17 Pro chip is still plenty fast for everyday use, gaming and creative apps. An OLED display could make the next model significantly more appealing, but its launch timing remains uncertain. With discounts likely on the current model, buy now if you value portability and performance; wait if display quality matters most.

Which Apple Watches are expected on September 9?

Apple is expected to unveil two new Apple Watch models at its “Surprise and Shine” event on September 9: the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4.

Apple Watch is one of the few Apple products that receives a predictable annual update, so a Series 12 launch is widely expected. The Ultra 4 is also due to replace the current Ultra 3.

Neither model is expected to receive a major redesign. Instead, both are likely to be relatively modest “chip and ship” updates, focusing on new processors, connectivity and other internal improvements while retaining broadly similar designs.

Which Apple Watch isn’t expected to be updated?

The Apple Watch SE 4 is not expected to launch in 2026. Apple updated its budget model with the Apple Watch SE 3 in 2025, and that version is likely to remain in the lineup for another year.

What new features are expected: At a glance

Apple Watch Series 12: expected new features

The Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to be a modest upgrade, led by a faster S-series chip and potentially a larger battery. The design should remain largely unchanged, though ceramic finishes are possible. Continuous heart-rate monitoring is reportedly in testing, while Touch ID looks unlikely. Siri AI and other watchOS 27 features should provide the biggest everyday changes.

Apple Watch Ultra 4: expected new features

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 should retain the Ultra 3’s rugged design while gaining the same new S-series chip. Satellite connectivity will remain a key advantage, with watchOS 27 expected to expand its capabilities. Continuous heart-rate monitoring and Siri AI are also possible, while a major redesign, Touch ID and blood-glucose monitoring appear unlikely.

What is the Apple Watch 2026 release date?

The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are expected to be announced at Apple’s September iPhone event on Wednesday, September 9, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and the new iPhone Ultra.

Apple has launched a new Series Apple Watch every September since 2016, usually alongside the latest iPhones, so the arrival of the Series 12 is all but certain. The Ultra 4 is also widely expected to appear at the event.

Preorders are likely to open shortly after the announcement, with shipping expected to begin later in September.

Apple Watch 2026 chips

The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 are expected to feature a new, faster S-series chip, although there is some uncertainty over whether Apple will call it the S11 or S12.

Unlike some recent Apple Watch generations, where processor changes have been relatively modest, the 2026 chip is expected to deliver a more meaningful improvement in performance and efficiency. It should also provide more headroom for new watchOS 27 features and increasingly demanding on-device AI capabilities.

That could be particularly important as Apple raises the hardware requirements for watchOS. watchOS 27 supports Apple Watches with an S9 chip or later, dropping several older models, suggesting newer silicon is becoming increasingly important for features such as Apple’s more advanced Siri capabilities.

As a result, the Series 12 and Ultra 4 are widely expected to be relatively straightforward “chip and ship” updates, with the processor upgrade among the most significant changes. A faster chip could also help keep the new watches compatible with major watchOS features for longer.

Will the 2026 Apple Watch get a new design?

David Price / Foundry

A major redesign is not expected for the 2026 Apple Watch lineup. Both the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 are likely to retain the same overall design language as their predecessors, with this year’s upgrades focused more heavily on internal changes.

Last summer, a DigiTimes report raised hopes that 2026 could bring the Apple Watch its first substantial redesign in years. However, similar rumors have appeared before without materialising, including reports of a dramatically redesigned Apple Watch Series X.

More recently, Weibo leaker Instant Digital claimed that neither the Series 12 nor the Series 13 will receive a major new look, with a more significant redesign instead expected in 2028.

There has also been little evidence from Apple’s supply chain of a radically redesigned chassis. We’d therefore expect the Series 12 to retain the slimmer case and larger display of recent models, while the Ultra 4 should stick with its familiar rugged design. Smaller changes such as new colors, finishes, slightly slimmer bezels, or display tweaks remain possible.

One potentially more noticeable change could be the return of ceramic. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that Apple has tested white and dark gray ceramic Apple Watch models, which could bring back a premium material Apple last offered with the Apple Watch Edition in 2019.

Will the Apple Watch get a new display?

David Price / Foundry

A more substantial display upgrade is possible eventually, but it doesn’t look certain for 2026.

Apple has used OLED displays since the original Apple Watch, with recent Series models reaching up to 2,000 nits of brightness and the Ultra 3 reaching 3,000 nits. For several years there have been reports that Apple wants to move to microLED, which could offer better color accuracy, greater efficiency, and significantly higher brightness.

At CES 2025, Samsung demonstrated a microLED smartwatch display capable of 4,000 nits, showing the potential of the technology. However, while microLED remains a plausible future Apple Watch upgrade, there is currently little evidence that it will arrive with the Series 12 or Ultra 4 in 2026.

Will the Apple Watch Series 12 have longer battery life?

Petter Ahrnstedt

There are signs that battery life could be a bigger focus for the Apple Watch Series 12, although any improvement has yet to be confirmed.

According to Weibo leaker Instant Digital, Apple is prioritising battery capacity and health sensors, and is reportedly trying to fit a physically larger battery inside the Series 12 rather than relying solely on efficiency gains from the new processor.

That could help Apple extend battery life beyond the 24 hours of normal use offered by the Apple Watch Series 11. Even a modest increase would be useful for sleep tracking and other always-on health features, which leave less time for charging.

So while a dramatic leap in battery life isn’t guaranteed, the Series 12 could combine a larger battery with efficiency improvements from its new chip to deliver longer real-world runtime.

Will the Apple Watch Ultra get a better battery?

The rumor about a larger battery currently applies specifically to the Series 12, rather than the Ultra 4. The Ultra already offers substantially longer battery life, with Apple rating the Ultra 3 for up to 42 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.

What connectivity changes are coming with the 2026 Apple Watches?

Major connectivity changes are not currently expected for the 2026 Apple Watch lineup.

5G is already supported on current cellular Apple Watch models and there are also no strong reports pointing to a major new cellular modem upgrade this year.

However, Satellite connectivity is more significant, but it is primarily an Apple Watch Ultra feature. The current Ultra 3 already supports Emergency SOS, Find My, and Messages via satellite, and the Ultra 4 is expected to retain those capabilities.

watchOS 27 is also expected to expand what Apple Watch can do over satellite, with features including Apple Maps via satellite and the ability to send and receive photos in Messages via satellite. Those software features should be available on the Ultra 4 where supported.

There is currently no evidence that the Apple Watch Series 12 will gain direct satellite connectivity, so this is likely to remain one of the key differences between the standard Series model and the Ultra.

Will Apple Watch Series 12 get Touch ID?

Foundry

Probably not in 2026.

Macworld uncovered developer code referring to the 2026 Apple Watch models alongside “AppleMesa,” Apple’s internal codename for Touch ID. No previous Apple Watch models had included similar references, suggesting Apple has at least tested fingerprint authentication for the Watch.

At the time, that raised the possibility that Touch ID could debut with the Series 12, potentially built into a side button or beneath the display. It would be useful for Apple Pay, private apps and messages, and unlocking the Watch independently of an iPhone.

However, more recent reporting has made a 2026 launch look much less likely. One leaker has claimed Apple is not bringing Touch ID to the Apple Watch, while other reports suggest Apple is prioritising larger batteries and new health sensors over using valuable internal space for fingerprint hardware.

The earlier code may therefore relate to prototype hardware rather than a feature destined for this year’s models.

For now, Touch ID appears to be something Apple has explored for the Watch, but it is unlikely to debut with the Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4.

Apple Watch already uses passcode and wrist-detection security, and it can also act as an authenticator for other Apple devices, including automatically unlocking a Mac.

What health features are coming to the 2026 Apple Watches?

Health and fitness tracking is expected to remain a major focus for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. The most credible new feature is continuous heart-rate monitoring throughout the day, while Apple may also make further improvements to its existing health sensors and hypertension features.

More ambitious additions, including non-invasive blood-glucose monitoring and AI-powered health coaching, remain in development but are much less likely to arrive this year.

Continuous heart-rate monitoring

One of the most significant rumored upgrades for the Series 12 and Ultra 4 is continuous heart-rate data collection.

According to a report in August from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has tested technology that would allow the Apple Watch heart-rate sensor to “continuously collect data throughout the day.”

Currently, Apple Watch takes periodic background heart-rate readings when you aren’t using the Workout, Mindfulness, or Heart Rate apps. Continuous monitoring could provide a much richer dataset, potentially improving health trends, alerts, and other analysis.

Will Apple Watch Series 12 monitor blood glucose?

Apple has been working on non-invasive blood-glucose monitoring for many years, but it remains unlikely to arrive with the Series 12.

Reports of Apple’s work on the technology date back to at least 2017, when we reported that the company had assembled a team of biomedical engineers to investigate continuous glucose monitoring.

Bloomberg subsequently reported that Apple had developed a system based on optical absorption spectroscopy and had reached the proof-of-concept stage. However, more recent reporting suggests a commercial Apple Watch implementation may still be several years away, potentially around 2030.

So while blood-glucose monitoring remains one of Apple Watch’s most anticipated future features, Series 12 is probably too soon.

What about AI health coaching?

Apple

Apple has also been developing an AI-powered health and fitness coaching system, previously reported under the name Health+.

The project has reportedly been scaled back from a single ambitious service into individual features that can be released progressively. That means some AI-powered health insights or coaching features could appear sooner, but there is currently little evidence that a complete Health+ service will debut with the Series 12.

For 2026, continuous heart-rate monitoring looks considerably more plausible than either blood-glucose monitoring or a full AI health coach.

What health features does Apple Watch already have?

The Series 11 and Ultra 3 already offer an extensive set of health features, including:

• Blood Oxygen monitoring
• ECG
• Heart-rate and heart-rhythm notifications
• Hypertension notifications
• Wrist-temperature sensing
• Cycle Tracking and ovulation estimates
• Sleep stages and Sleep Score
• Sleep apnea notifications

The Apple Watch SE 3 has a more limited health feature set and lacks Blood Oxygen monitoring, ECG, temperature sensing, and hypertension notifications.

What new apps are coming to Apple Watch?

watchOS 27 will bring several new apps and app experiences to the Apple Watch, although Apple appears to be focusing as much on upgrading existing software as adding entirely new apps and some older Apple Watches will not be able to run watchOS 27.

Siri AI comes to Apple Watch

The biggest software addition is Siri AI. Apple Watch users will be able to start Siri AI conversations from their wrist, access previous conversations across Apple devices, and use newer capabilities such as personal context and web answers.

Much of the processing will still depend on a nearby compatible iPhone, but the change should make Apple Watch a much more useful entry point for Apple’s AI features.

watchOS 27 with Siri AI requires an Apple Watch Series 9 or later, Ultra 2 or later, or SE 3, alongside a compatible iPhone.

Find My gets a major overhaul

Apple is also introducing a unified Find My app, replacing the separate Find People, Find Devices and Find Items apps with a single map-based interface.

That should make it much easier to locate people, Apple devices and AirTags directly from the Watch without jumping between multiple apps.

A new Readiness app could be coming

Late-breaking code discovered in September reportedly points to a separate Readiness app for Apple Watch.

The app is thought to focus on recovery and preparedness, potentially using health and fitness data to indicate how ready you are for exercise or other activity. However, this has not yet been officially announced, so it should still be treated as a rumor.

Existing apps are getting smarter too

Apple is also improving several existing Watch apps and features rather than simply adding new ones.

Workout Buddy is becoming more capable, with smarter fitness insights, Spanish-language support and the ability to work without a direct iPhone connection. Wallet gains the ability to display card balances, while the Smart Stack adds new interactions, including a tap gesture for selecting widgets.

watchOS 27 also introduces a more dynamic app grid that surfaces five contextually relevant apps, while Apple continues to make its Watch apps look and behave more like their iPhone equivalents.

Overall, the most important software additions for 2026 are Siri AI, the redesigned Find My app and the possible new Readiness app, with broader improvements across Workout, Wallet and the Smart Stack.

watchOS 27 also expands women’s health features with pre-menopause tracking.

How much could the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 cost?

Apple has not announced pricing for the 2026 Apple Watch lineup but we can make some estimations especially in the light of Apple’s dramatic price rises for iPads and Macs in June 2026.

The current Apple Watch Series 11 starts at $399, while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at $799. Apple left Watch pricing unchanged when it raised prices across much of its Mac, iPad and home-device lineup in June 2026, which suggests the new models could still avoid a major increase.

However, Apple warned at the time that further price rises could follow, and some analysts expect higher component costs to result in a modest increase for the next Apple Watch generation.

Apple Watch Series 12 price prediction

We think the Series 12 could start at around $429, up from $399 for the Series 11, although this is a prediction rather than a firm rumor. A smaller increase — or no increase at all — remains possible.

The cellular version currently starts at $499 and would likely rise by a similar amount if Apple increases prices across the range.

Apple Watch Ultra 4 price prediction

There are fewer specific pricing rumors surrounding the Ultra 4, so the safest assumption is that it will remain close to the Ultra 3’s $799 starting price.

Apple could apply a modest increase here too, but there is currently little evidence pointing to a substantial Ultra price rise.

What about the Apple Watch SE?

An Apple Watch SE 4 is not expected in 2026, so the SE 3 should remain Apple’s entry-level model at or near its current $249 starting price.

Does it matter if these are only incremental updates?

Not necessarily. The Apple Watch is now a mature product, so Apple’s focus has increasingly shifted from major redesigns to smaller improvements in performance, battery life, connectivity, durability, and health features.

As we argued in July 2026, the Apple Watch doesn’t necessarily need another dramatic redesign or a flashy new feature. What matters more at this stage is a steady stream of quality-of-life improvements that make it more useful day to day.

That was also true of the previous generation. The Series 11 added 5G connectivity, better battery life and improved durability, while the Ultra 3 brought a slightly larger display and satellite connectivity. Neither was a radical reinvention, but both refined an already well-established design.

The Apple Watch’s overall look has changed relatively little since the Series 4 redesign in 2018, and that may be deliberate. For existing owners of a recent model, the Series 12 and Ultra 4 may not offer a compelling reason to upgrade. But for anyone coming from an older Apple Watch, several generations of incremental improvements can add up to a much more substantial upgrade.

Is Apple considering a circular Apple Watch design?

Yes — but that doesn’t mean one is likely to go on sale.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported in August 2026 that Apple has explored several new wearable concepts, including circular displays similar to those used by the Google Pixel Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch. Apple is also reportedly considering other ideas, such as screenless fitness trackers, as it looks for ways to reinvent its wearable lineup.

However, these concepts appear to be experimental and are not expected to arrive soon.

A circular Apple Watch would also involve significant compromises. The current rectangular design makes efficient use of screen space for text, apps and complications, while a round display would reduce usable area at the same overall width. That could also leave less internal room for components such as the battery and health sensors.

For those reasons, a round Apple Watch is best viewed as something Apple has explored rather than a likely future product.

Will Apple ever redesign the Apple Watch?

Almost certainly, but a major redesign may still be some way off.

Apple is reportedly experimenting with different form factors as competition in wearables grows, and Gurman has said the company is “determined to reinvent the lineup.” But the more radical ideas currently under consideration — including circular displays and screenless wearables — are said to be longer-term projects.

For now, Apple appears more likely to continue refining the existing rectangular Apple Watch design before making a more fundamental change.