Apple Unveils iPhone 18 Lineup and Foldable Ultra at September 2026 Launch
September 4, 2026
Apple is expected to unveil three new iPhone models at the September event, including a foldable iPhone Ultra alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, with speculation that the base iPhone 18 may be skipped this year or saved for a 2027 split launch.
The iPhone 18 range could feature the Pro and Pro Max variants with larger batteries, a smaller Dynamic Island, a variable aperture camera, new colors, and a possible price increase, while the base iPhone 18 might not debut this year.
Storage options for the lineup are rumored to go up to 2TB for both the standard and foldable models, including configurations like 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB to support multitasking and media use on the foldable form.
US pre-orders are rumored to begin on a Saturday around mid-September, though exact times are unconfirmed and supply constraints could affect Ultra availability.
Readers are encouraged to follow the event coverage to verify which predictions hold and to learn the final results.
The ceramic Apple Watch option may return with a premium Ceramic Series, offering new bands/colors and possibly enhanced health features like always-on heart-rate sensing.
Performance is expected to be led by the A20 Pro chip on a 2nm process, with around 12GB of RAM anticipated for the Ultra, and iOS optimization aimed at the foldable’s larger inner display.
A large share of observers expect Apple’s new CEO on stage alongside Tim Cook, who remains executive chairman, though such a duo on stage would be unusual.
Color options remain uncertain, with reports suggesting several finishes and possible removal of Silver from Pro models, complicating the final retail color lineup.
Industry watchers warn that memory cost increases could push overall device prices up by roughly 10% to 20% for the new models.
Foldable iPhone production appears more advanced than earlier rumors suggested, though exact launch timing and initial availability remain unclear.
The foldable iPhone is seen as a potential ‘One More Thing’ moment, with additional expected surprises like a new Home hub, AirPods, smart glasses, and a new Apple TV, though timelines remain uncertain.
Summary based on 5 sources



