After extensive speculation and reports, Apple intends to present its autumn hardware collection on Wednesday, Sept. 9, during the Surprise and Shine event. Based on available details, this gathering stands apart from prior editions.

This year carries special meaning for the Cupertino firm. Tim Cook revealed in April his plan to exit the CEO position after nearly 15 years, following Steve Jobs in 2011. John Ternus, head of hardware engineering, assumes the top post just before the event.

Reports indicate Apple may skip its standard pattern by delaying the standard iPhone 18 until next year, so only premium Pro versions appear in September. This shift could spotlight another major launch: the foldable model expected under the name iPhone Ultra.

Attention will focus on pricing. Apple increased costs for computers and home products this summer due to memory chip supply challenges tied to the AI push. Higher fees for Apple Music and Apple TV subscriptions add further strain for buyers.

New iPhone 18 versions, adding foldable options

The iPhone 18 collection may follow a staggered schedule this year. In September the foldable iPhone Ultra along with the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are expected, while the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18E and a possible iPhone Air 2 could arrive in spring 2027.

The iPhone Ultra, the tentative name for Apple’s first foldable, features a book-style layout per analyst reports. It resembles the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 that opens into a compact tablet rather than a classic flip design.

A potential $2,000 cost positions the Ultra as a premium choice rather than a direct substitute for the base model. This aligns with survey results showing 75 percent of US adults express little interest in foldable phones.

The iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are said to include larger batteries, variable-aperture cameras and the new A20 chip. Expanded satellite features, a reduced Dynamic Island and revised rear camera layouts are also possible. New color choices may include light blue, dark cherry and dark gray.

All devices will run the previously announced operating system family. iOS 27, featuring the expected Siri AI updates, should launch this autumn together with MacOS Golden Gate, Apple TVOS 27 and additional platforms. Public betas have allowed testing of these features since the June WWDC announcement.

Apple Watch Series 12: Health tools and Touch ID?

A Series 12 Watch appears nearly certain according to wearables specialist Vanessa Hand Orellana. New SE and Ultra versions seem less probable after 2025 refreshes. Any updated models, including the Series 12 and Ultra 4, should feature a new processor for improved longevity and performance.

The main design shift centers on function rather than appearance. An energy-efficient display technology may extend battery life while preserving brightness. A new processor, likely called the S12, would further support this goal.

Biometric login, essentially Touch ID for the watch, represents another possible feature based on internal code references, though timing remains unclear. Health additions such as blood pressure tracking are also under development without confirmed release dates. The Apple Health App AI update has reportedly faced delays.

Early tests indicate WatchOS 27 with Siri AI delivers notable improvements for compatible devices. Watches avoided the recent price increases, yet similar moves by competitors could influence Apple pricing.

AirPods featuring cameras or not

A leading rumor involves the next AirPods gaining a compact infrared camera to map surroundings for visual intelligence and AI responses rather than photography.

These potential AirPods Ultra have drawn criticism from users concerned about camera-equipped wearables similar to Meta smart glasses. Apple’s privacy emphasis raises questions about whether such earbuds will launch and how the company would address those issues.

AirPods typically refresh every two years, so AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 Pro could appear this year. The prior AirPods 4 with active noise canceling earned praise as a technical achievement for open-ear designs. Further refinements seem likely. Refreshed Beats 360 headphones from Apple may also debut this autumn.