Apple is preparing for one of its biggest product events of the year, with its September launch scheduled for September 9, 2026. The company is expected to unveil the new iPhone 18 lineup, while a completely new product category could also make its debut—the company's first foldable iPhone.

Although Apple has not officially confirmed the specifications or even the name of the foldable model, reports suggest that a premium foldable device could be one of the biggest highlights of the event.

First foldable iPhone could be introduced

Apple has so far stayed out of the foldable smartphone market while companies such as Samsung, Huawei and Google have released multiple generations of foldable devices.

That could change this week. Reports suggest Apple may introduce a premium foldable iPhone, potentially marketed as the iPhone Ultra.

The device is expected to use a book-style folding design, with a larger internal display that can provide a tablet-like viewing area when unfolded. However, Apple has yet to confirm these details.

Premium design and high price expected

The rumored foldable iPhone is expected to focus heavily on a thin and premium design. Early reports and leaked dummy units suggest Apple may be aiming to make the device considerably slimmer than many existing foldables.

The price could also make it one of Apple's most expensive smartphones. Some reports have suggested a starting price of more than $2,000, although the actual price will only be known if Apple announces the device.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max also expected

The foldable model may not be the only major attraction at Apple's September event.

The company is widely expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, with reports pointing to upgrades in areas such as cameras, battery performance and display technology.

The Pro Max is expected to remain Apple's flagship conventional smartphone, giving consumers an alternative to the potentially much more expensive foldable model.

Apple could make major changes to its iPhone lineup

Reports indicate that Apple may be changing its traditional iPhone launch strategy.

Instead of introducing every iPhone 18 model at the same time, the company could stagger the release of certain models. This would represent a significant departure from Apple's recent launch pattern.

However, these details remain based on reports and leaks until Apple makes an official announcement.

New Apple Watch and AirPods could also arrive

The September event is expected to be about more than smartphones.

Apple could also introduce new Apple Watch models and updated AirPods, alongside software updates and other products.

There is also speculation about new smart-home hardware, although Apple has not confirmed the complete list of products planned for the event.

Why the foldable iPhone matters

Apple's entry into the foldable market could significantly increase competition in the premium smartphone segment.

Huawei has already launched its Mate XT2, a tri-fold smartphone, while Xiaomi is also expanding its foldable lineup. Samsung remains one of the established names in the global foldable market.

Apple's entry could therefore push competitors to focus even more on thinner designs, improved hinges, better displays and foldable-specific software.

When will Apple reveal the new iPhones?

Apple's September event is scheduled for September 9, 2026. The company is expected to reveal the new products during the event, after which it should provide information about availability and pricing in individual markets.

For Indian buyers, the final India price and launch date will be particularly important because taxes and local pricing can make the cost significantly different from the US price.

What to expect from Apple's biggest launch of the year

The iPhone 18 series is already generating significant interest, but the possible arrival of Apple's first foldable iPhone could make this year's event especially important.

If Apple does unveil a foldable device, it would mark the company's entry into one of the fastest-evolving segments of the smartphone market. With Huawei and Xiaomi also pushing new foldable designs, Apple's approach could have a major impact on where premium smartphones go next.

Important: Apple has not officially confirmed the rumored foldable iPhone, its specifications or its price. These details are based on reports and leaks and should be treated as unconfirmed until the September 9 event.