Foldable iPhone and new CEO: Apple sets date for historic launch event

Apple’s next launch event will take place in two weeks, on Wednesday, Sept. 9, under the slogan “Surprise and Shine.” As tradition dictates, it will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park in California. An unusual event This year’s event is unusual for two reasons. First, by all indications, Apple will finally unveil its first foldable iPhone, a book-style device that has been the subject of years of rumors. As usual, Apple is keeping the final design under wraps, but leaks suggest it will have a wide, passport-like form factor, similar to Samsung’s new Galaxy Fold 8. Some reports say the device could be called the “iPhone Ultra” and feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.3-inch external screen when folded. It is expected to be just 4.5 millimeters thick when open. The projected price is between $2,000 and $2,500. The second reason the event stands out is that it will be hosted for the first time by Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, who is replacing Tim Cook. Ternus, formerly the company’s hardware chief, is expected to take over as CEO on Sept. 1. Cook is not leaving Apple and will move into the role of board chairman. Apple is also expected to refresh its Pro and Pro Max models at the event. Rumors suggest both will receive upgrades rather than a dramatic redesign. The most significant change is expected to be the move to the A20 Pro chip, Apple’s first processor manufactured using a 2-nanometer process, which is expected to improve battery life. Assuming Apple continues its traditional naming convention, the devices are likely to be called the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Reports suggest, however, that Apple will not unveil the base iPhone 18 at the event. Instead, for the first time, the company is expected to launch it next year, likely alongside the iPhone 18e and a second generation of the slim iPhone Air. Alongside the iPhones, Apple is expected to unveil several other upgraded products in September, including the Apple Watch Series 12, featuring a new band attachment system, and a fourth-generation Apple Watch Ultra, the company’s more advanced sports watch, with an updated design and new sensors.