iPhone 18 Pro and First Foldable iPhone: Apple Prepares for a Spectacular Fall 2026

Apple may experience one of its busiest September months in recent years. After recently unveiling new Mac mini and Mac Studio models, several additional products are expected in the coming weeks, with the highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max leading the charge. The brand's first foldable iPhone could also make its debut, although its release may come later.

According to the latest available information, Apple is set to hold its traditional iPhone event around September 9, 2026. However, this date has yet to be officially confirmed by the Cupertino firm. MacRumors reports that invitations could be sent out very soon.

An Especially Busy Fall for Apple

The announced schedule outlines an exceptional fall for Apple. Two new computers have already been presented: the Mac mini, equipped with new M6 and M5 Pro chips depending on the configuration, and the Mac Studio, offered with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. Their release is slated for September 22, with starting prices of $899 and $2,499 respectively in the United States.

In addition to these two machines, five products are expected to be unveiled around the September presentation: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5. This selection brings the total number of new products likely to be launched before the end of the month to seven. The first foldable iPhone is not included in this total, as its launch may be delayed.

The iPhone 18 Pro in the Spotlight

Unsurprisingly, the new iPhones are expected to be the main event of the keynote. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are touted as the next high-end models from the brand.

Among the rumored upgrades are a A20 Pro chip manufactured using a 2-nanometer process, a more compact Dynamic Island, and a new generation of main camera sensor that may feature a variable aperture. This latter upgrade would allow for better control over the amount of light entering the lens and provide greater flexibility in photography.

The Pro Max model could benefit from a larger battery and slightly increased thickness. Several reports also indicate a potential increase in prices, but final costs remain unknown until Apple officially announces its lineup.

A Foldable iPhone Priced Over $2,000?

The other major innovation could be much more radical. Apple is reportedly preparing its first foldable iPhone, often referred to in leaks as the "iPhone Ultra".

According to information shared by MacRumors, the device would adopt a book-like format with an exterior screen of about 5.5 inches and an interior display close to 7.8 inches. Once unfolded, its format could resemble the experience offered by a small iPad.

The design would also have implications for biometric functions. Due to the presumed thinness of the phone, Apple might favor Touch ID integrated into the power button rather than Face ID. The rear camera system would also be more limited than that of the Pro models, with two lenses rumored in current leaks.

Its price could position it in a very premium category. Some estimates suggest a range between $2,000 and $2,500, but at this stage, these are projections and not a price communicated by Apple. Availability may also be delayed after the September announcement due to production difficulties reported by several specialized sources.

Apple Watch: Performance-Centric Upgrades

The smartwatches are expected to complement the presentation. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are both anticipated with a new generation of processors and various improvements related to battery life, sports tracking, and health and fitness features.

For the Series 12, a version featuring a ceramic case is also rumored. The Ultra 4 is expected to maintain its more rugged positioning, particularly aimed at outdoor activities. However, the available information comes from leaks and forecasts, as Apple has yet to officially confirm anything regarding these models.

AirPods 5 Also Expected to Make an Appearance

The wireless earbuds should not be forgotten. References to the AirPods 5 have been spotted in a recent version of macOS, fueling speculation about a forthcoming presentation.

Two versions are being considered: a standard model and a variant equipped with active noise cancellation. Their arrival could coincide with the iPhone refresh, allowing Apple to simultaneously strengthen its audio and mobile ecosystem.

The iPhone Release Schedule Changes Pace

One of the most significant changes ultimately concerns not the products that will be presented, but those that will not be.

Apple is expected to break from its traditional schedule by not launching the standard iPhone 18 in September. The classic model, the iPhone 18e, and the iPhone Air 2 are now expected in Spring 2027, leaving the fall of 2026 to the higher-end devices.

This strategy would allow Apple to better distinguish its different ranges and focus September's communication on higher-value devices.

A Symbolic Event for John Ternus

The September keynote will also have a particular significance in terms of governance. John Ternus is set to take over as CEO of Apple on September 1, 2026, while Tim Cook will become executive chairman. The event dedicated to the new iPhones is therefore expected to be one of Ternus's first major public appearances in his new role.

For Apple, this fall will thus be doubly strategic: it must inaugurate a new phase in its leadership while presenting a particularly ambitious lineup.

Seven Products, or Potentially Eight

As of today, the most credible scenario suggests seven products will be launched in September: two Macs already announced, two Pro iPhones, two Apple Watches, and the AirPods 5. However, if the foldable iPhone manages to be launched within the same timeframe, Apple could ultimately raise this total to eight new products.

One thing remains certain: between the refresh of high-end iPhones, new watches, AirPods, and the potential arrival of a foldable model, September 2026 promises to be a particularly important month for Apple. And if the rumors are confirmed, the brand could use this fall to fundamentally reshape its product calendar and positioning in the premium smartphone market.