Apple Confirms September 9 Event for First Foldable iPhone

Apple has finally dropped the launch date for its next major lineup of gadgets. The California tech giant sent out invites to a gathering called 'Surprise and Shine' at its Apple Park campus. Everyone expects this meeting to reveal the iPhone Ultra, which will be their very first foldable phone. And the best part? You do not have long to wait.

The event kicks off on September 9 at 10:00 local time, or 18:00 BST for those watching from the UK. This date sits just eight days after John Ternus officially took over as CEO from Tim Cook. Mr Ternus is known as Apple's 'product guy' and has a real passion for pushing new hardware forward. That means fans might see a big treat, with several new devices likely hitting the stage alongside the foldable iPhone.

The invitation sent to reporters features a glowing, translucent Apple logo set against a sunny blue sky background. Alongside the title 'Surprise and Shine', the message asks guests to join in person at the Steve Jobs Theater. Some think this transparent design nods to the controversial Liquid Glass Display that launched with iOS 2026 back in June 2025. A video version of the graphic shows the logo shimmering, which could hint at how Siri AI lights up now. Whatever these hints mean, Apple remains tight-lipped about exactly what fans can expect on September 9.

Experts are certain Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone Ultra despite a lack of official confirmation from the company itself. This foldable phone marks the first serious break from the classic design established when the original iPhone debuted. Rumours suggest the device will look similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, with a 5.5-inch outer screen and an inner display around 7.8 inches wide. That internal screen would be comparable to an iPad Mini in size.

Veteran Apple analyst Mark Gurman wrote in his Power On newsletter that people who test models love how they fit in pockets, the feel of the device, and durability from the advanced hinge mechanism. He also praises new app layouts that make use of the larger internal display. Mr Gurman added that this is expected to be an 'ultra-premium' product with a matching price tag. Launch prices should top $2,000, which equals about £1,470. That puts the cost on par with Samsung's premium foldables but well above Apple's current iPhone 17 Pro Max.

However, Mr Gurman also notes that the iPhone Ultra is expected to lack Face ID and a telephoto lens. These missing features could be a deal-breaker for fans of high-end tech who rely on them. Online, Apple lovers have been thrilled by the news and took to social media to share their excitement. One commenter wrote: 'Woohoo! Exciting to see Apple's upcoming event and the surprise that awaits us.' Another fan chimed in saying: 'TELL ME iPHONE FOLLLDDD IS COMINGGGGG'. While another added: 'My wallet is already sweating'.

Just take my money now." That is what one tipster recently claimed when revealing what he says is the dummy model of Apple's first foldable smartphone. The device displays a design remarkably similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8. This leak suggests Apple is finally preparing to enter the world of folding screens after years of rumors.

Apple is also expected to release the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max soon. However, the standard iPhone 18 might not arrive with them. Some online speculation insists fans will have to wait until early 2027 for a regular version of that phone. This means the lineup could shift significantly before the next cycle concludes.

Besides the rumored iPhone Ultra, the rumor mill suggests Apple is working on more than just phones. The company might launch the next generation of the Apple Watch Ultra as well. Fans could also see the Apple Watch Series 12 hitting shelves eventually. Even the HomePod Mini might get a sequel to replace the current model.

According to MacRumours, the newly released macOS 26.7 beta software holds clues inside its code names. The file includes references to unreleased products, including the codename 'B525'. Since the current HomePod Mini carries the code 'B520', this new number implies a second-generation sequel is on the way. It has been six years since Apple launched the last version of its compact smart speaker. The timing for an update seems right now.

With Apple expected to launch the new Siri this autumn, the HomePod might finally have the AI power to make it a genuine home assistant rather than a glorified radio alarm clock. People want their devices to actually understand and act, not just play music or read the time. The shift toward artificial intelligence changes everything for these products.

The Daily Mail has approached Apple for comment regarding all this activity. No official response has come through yet.