Apple expected to unveil first foldable iPhone and camera-equipped AirPods

Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone, a device that has been in development for more than five years since the initial market entry of competitors such as Samsung. The announcement is scheduled for the company’s September 9 event, which is widely anticipated due to the introduction of an entirely new form factor. This launch coincides with a significant leadership transition, as Tim Cook is set to hand over the role of chief executive officer to John Ternus, the former vice president of hardware engineering. The presentation is expected to cover a range of new hardware, including the foldable device, the standard iPhone 18 line, and updates to the company’s audio and smart home ecosystems.

The foldable iPhone, reportedly named the iPhone Ultra, is expected to command a premium price of over $2,000. This valuation is significantly higher than the company’s standard smartphones, though it remains lower than the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro headset. Early testers have reported that the device offers a premium tactile experience and fits comfortably in a pocket. When unfolded, the screen expands to a 7.8-inch display, resembling a small iPad, while the folded state features a 5.5-inch cover screen. In its closed position, the device is described as being shorter and wider than a typical iPhone.

To achieve a sleek profile suitable for pocket carry, Apple has reportedly made several hardware concessions. The device is expected to omit the telephoto camera, a feature that may disappoint photography enthusiasts. Instead, it will feature a dual-lens rear camera system comprising a main and an ultra-wide lens, similar to the configuration found on the company’s more affordable iPhone models. Furthermore, the foldable is expected to forgo Face ID to save internal space. In its place, the phone will rely on a Touch ID fingerprint sensor located on the side of the device. While this represents a shift from the facial recognition standard, it is a minor adjustment for users accustomed to the technology.

Software functionality will also differ from the company’s tablet lineup. Although the unfolded screen allows for side-by-side multitasking, the device will run iOS rather than iPadOS. This is considered feasible due to the power of Apple’s latest chips, which are also reported to be used in the budget MacBook Neo laptop. A key technical challenge for foldable devices has been the visibility of the screen crease. Apple has reportedly developed a display technology that minimises this visual imperfection, addressing a common pain point for users of existing foldable phones from other manufacturers.

In addition to the foldable, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. The standard iPhone 18 is predicted to arrive six months after the September event, marking a first for the company in releasing premium models before the standard version. The event is also anticipated to feature a refreshed HomePod smart speaker, which is expected to integrate with the company’s Gemini-powered Siri AI update. References to these new HomePods have recently been spotted in a macOS preview build by users.

Perhaps the most surprising development is the reported development of AirPods with built-in cameras. Researcher Aaron Perris discovered a video in a macOS preview showing a user wearing the earbuds and interacting with a physical book. The video includes a voiceover suggesting that the feature, called Visual Intelligence, allows users to save visual information. While some users may have privacy concerns regarding camera-equipped wearables, Apple has a brand reputation built on privacy. Reports indicate that the cameras are designed to act as eyes for the Siri digital assistant, capturing low-resolution visual information rather than taking high-quality photos or video.