{
  "id": 4420396,
  "title": "A Folding iPhone at Last? What to Expect From Apple’s Surprise and Shine Fall Event",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/30/a-folding-iphone-at-last-what-to-expect-from-apples-surprise-and",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-30T12:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CNET",
    "slug": "cnet",
    "url": "https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-event-what-to-expect-iphone-18-ultra-fold/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Apple is set to unveil its fall hardware lineup on September 9 during its Surprise and Shine event, marking a significant departure from the company's usual routine. This year's event is particularly sentimental for Apple, as CEO Tim Cook announced his planned resignation after nearly 15 years at the helm, following Steve Jobs' departure in 2011. Hardware engineering chief John Ternus will assume the top position shortly before the event.\n\nRumors suggest that Apple may forego releasing the base iPhone 18 in favor of unveiling the more premium Pro models first. This move could highlight the highly anticipated foldable device, tentatively named the iPhone Ultra. The Ultra is expected to feature a book-style design akin to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, with a price tag potentially reaching $2,000.\n\nThe iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are rumored to boast larger batteries, variable-aperture cameras, and the new Apple A20 processor. Additional features may include expanded satellite connectivity, a refined Dynamic Island, and alternative back camera islands. The devices could be available in colors such as light blue, dark cherry, and dark gray.\n\nApple's upcoming operating systems, iOS 27, macOS Golden Gate, Apple TVOS 27, and more, are expected to roll out alongside the new devices. A Series 12 Watch is anticipated to be the \"guaranteed\" release among the new lineup. However, other devices like a new Apple Watch SE and Ultra may not make it, while potential upgrades like a new processor and biometric authentication could be in the works.\n\nWatchOS 27, with the anticipated Siri AI revamp, is also expected to be released this fall. Despite health feature updates like blood pressure monitoring, some features may face challenges during development. The Apple Health App's AI overhaul has reportedly encountered issues, and current testing indicates that WatchOS 27 may not be fully compatible with all devices.\n\nAs for the AirPods, rumors suggest the upcoming AirPods Ultra will feature a new, small infrared camera to enable visual intelligence responses. However, Apple's emphasis on privacy may influence the decision to release the earbuds and how they are marketed. The AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 Pro are likely to follow this year, building upon the success of the AirPods 4, which introduced active noise cancellation.",
  "summary": "From the iPhone 18 lineup to the Apple Watch 12 and new AirPods, this is everything Apple could release in its anticipated September event.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}