Hardware structure of foldable iPhones and upgrades on the iPhone 18 Pro Max series.
Apple's fall hardware event is expected to introduce its first foldable smartphone, an improved iPhone 18 Pro lineup, and a new ecosystem of wearable devices.
Apple's annual event this coming September is predicted to kick off the launch of at least five new hardware devices. Besides focusing on high-end smartphones, the tech giant will continue to push its strategy of deeply integrating the Siri AI virtual assistant into its hardware ecosystem.
iPhone foldable hardware architecture: Hinge design and 2nm processor.
The technological focus of this launch is on the first foldable smartphone, tentatively named the iPhone Ultra. The device will feature a 5.5-inch external secondary screen and a 7.8-inch main screen when unfolded with a 4:3 aspect ratio, providing a display area comparable to an iPad mini. Apple has optimized the hinge system to minimize creases on the display surface.
In terms of processing power, this foldable phone is equipped with an A20 chip manufactured using an advanced 2nm process, along with a dual-battery system for power distribution. To maintain maximum slimness, the device only features a dual rear camera setup and eliminates the TrueDepth sensor system in favor of Touch ID biometric authentication technology. The price of this groundbreaking device is estimated to be between $2,000 and $2,500. Due to the complex requirements of the manufacturing process, the product may only be unveiled in September before officially going on sale later in the year.
Changes to the battery design and pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Besides the foldable model, the iPhone 18 Pro Max version continues to maintain the top-of-the-line technical specifications of the Pro series but with a larger screen size. To meet the demand for optimal battery life, Apple may increase the overall thickness of the Pro Max version compared to its predecessor.
The listed price for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max is expected to increase by $100 to $200 compared to the iPhone 17 Pro generation. This adjustment comes after the company has finalized new pricing for its Mac computers and iPad tablets.
The new generation of Apple Watch: Enhanced processor performance and sensor system.
The company's line of smart wearable devices also received significant upgrades in this launch:
- Apple Watch Series 12:Maintaining the overall design language, it features a new generation S chip that enhances computing performance, improves health and fitness tracking features, and extends battery life.
- Apple Watch Ultra 4:Utilizing a new processor similar to the Series 12, the device optimizes the slimness of its casing and upgrades the sensor system for collecting biological data.
Summary of expected hardware specifications
| Product line | Screen | Microprocessors | Key technical features |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone Ultra (Foldable) | 5.5 inches (outer) / 7.8 inches (inner) | A20 (2nm) | Optimized hinge for optimal folding, dual battery, Touch ID |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | Large size | New generation A series | Increase the thickness of the device body to optimize battery capacity. |
| Apple Watch Series 12 | Standard | New S-series chips | Upgraded health tracking system, improved battery life. |
| Apple Watch Ultra 4 | Ultra version | New S-series chips | Thinner body, upgraded advanced sensors. |
Expanding the Smart Home ecosystem and changing the release roadmap.
In addition to the September event, Apple plans to hold another launch event in October or November to introduce smart home devices and a new line of Mac computers. Notably, the Home Hub, featuring a 7-inch square screen with deep Siri AI integration, supporting smart home management and video calls, is expected to launch sometime in 2026–2027.
Product lines such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, and the standard HomePod are also included in the plan for processor and storage upgrades. Additionally, the company's own line of smart security cameras is currently in the design development phase.
Regarding the release schedule, Apple adjusted its strategy by not launching the standard iPhone 18 in September this year. Models including the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 will be delayed until spring 2027. The Apple Watch SE line also will not receive an update this time.
Following the usual schedule, the new product launch event will most likely take place on September 8th or 9th. Pre-orders are expected to begin on September 11th-12th, and the first products will be delivered to customers starting on September 18th.