iPhone 18, foldable iPhone: What to expect, when and where to watch Apple event

The countdown for annual event of Apple Inc. has started as the tech giant is set to unveil today a host of products, including the much-awaited foldable iPhone.

The annual September event, titled “Surprise and Shine”, is also the first major product launch under new Apple CEO John Ternus, who took charge of the Cupertino-based company on September 1.

Ternus, Apple's longtime hardware chief, is expected to use the event to outline his vision for the company as he takes over from his predecessor.

What to expect?

The September launch is among the company's most closely watched events of the year and is expected to include new iPhone models and Apple Watch devices.

While Apple does not disclose the products it plans to unveil, the company is widely expected to announce its entry into the foldable smartphone segment, which is currently dominated by Samsung.

The iPhone remains Apple's biggest revenue generator, accounting for roughly half of the company's total revenue.

A foldable model could also help Apple attract consumers willing to pay premium prices who might otherwise opt for Samsung or other competing brands.

According to Bloomberg's Apple insider Mark Gurman, the foldable iPhone is expected to have a premium design that fits into a pocket and opens into a wider, iPad-like display.

The foldable model is also expected to feature a dual-lens rear camera system comprising a main and ultra-wide camera, similar to the set-up on Apple's more affordable iPhone models.

Some reports have suggested that Apple could include MagSafe, its magnetic wireless charging and accessory system, but may drop Face ID to save space.

Apple is also expected to release some new devices in the iPhone 18 line.

TechCrunch has reported that Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, while the standard iPhone 18 could arrive about six months later. If that happens, it would mark a departure from Apple's usual practice of launching the standard and Pro models together.

The company is also expected to provide an update on its long-delayed Gemini-powered Siri upgrade and could refresh its HomePod range.

When and where to watch

The event will be held at the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California.

"Watch a special Apple Event on 9 September at 10:30 PM IST. Tune in at apple.com or on the Apple TV app," Apple said on its website.

The September 9 event will be streamed live through Apple's website and Apple TV app, while Apple also typically broadcasts its major product launches on its official YouTube channel.