Key Points
Apple confirms September 9 keynote for iPhone 18 Pro and first foldable iPhone launch.
New CEO John Ternus debuts on stage after taking over from Tim Cook on September 1.
Foldable iPhone expected to cost around $1,500 amid industry-wide memory shortages and price increases.
Pre-orders likely September 12, retail launch September 18, with 10 million foldable units planned for 2026.
Apple sent formal invitations for a September 9 keynote at its Cupertino headquarters, confirming the launch window for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable device, rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra. The event marks new CEO John Ternus’s debut on stage after taking over from Tim Cook on September 1. Analysts expect AI-focused upgrades and a potential $1,500 price point for the foldable model.
When and where the event happens
The keynote begins at 10 a.m. Pacific Time on September 9, which translates to 2 a.m. Japan Standard Time on September 10. The event takes place at the Steve Jobs Theatre inside Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Invitations arrived on August 27 with the tagline “Surprise and Shine.” Apple avoided scheduling the event on September 8 or 11, respecting Labor Day and the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
What Apple will announce
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be unveiled, along with Apple’s first foldable smartphone. Two new Apple Watch models are also expected. The standard iPhone 18 may not launch until early 2027, according to multiple reports. Apple is preparing to produce 10 million foldable units this year, signaling confidence in demand.
John Ternus takes the helm
Ternus becomes Apple’s new CEO on September 1, replacing Tim Cook, who moves to executive chairman. This keynote is Ternus’s first major product launch as CEO. Analysts expect him to emphasize AI integration across new products, as Apple has lagged competitors in artificial intelligence. Bank of America noted that Ternus, a hardware engineer, could solidify Apple’s product advantage in the AI era.
Expected pricing and availability
Foldable iPhones typically cost more than standard models. Tech Insights analyst Mike Howard suggested Apple may price the foldable at $1,500, compared to standard iPhones around $1,000 to $1,200. Pre-orders are expected to open September 12, with retail availability on September 18. Memory shortages across the industry have pushed manufacturers to raise prices.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s September 9 event sets the stage for a leadership transition and potential market expansion into foldables. With Meyka grading AAPL a B and 24 analysts rating it Buy, the stock sits near $314, leaving room for upside if new products drive revenue growth.
FAQs
September 9, 2026 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time, or 2 a.m. Japan Standard Time on September 10. The event is at Steve Jobs Theatre in Cupertino, California.
Yes, Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
John Ternus becomes CEO on September 1, 2026, taking over from Tim Cook. This keynote is Ternus’s first major product launch as leader.
Pre-orders are expected to open September 12, 2026, with retail availability on September 18, though Apple has not officially confirmed these dates.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
About Author

Huzaifa Zahoor
Co FounderHuzaifa Zahoor is the engineer who built Meyka. He has spent years writing Python, training AI models, and building data pipelines specifically for financial markets. His technical articles have reached over 30,000 readers on Medium, so he knows how to make complex things easy to follow. If this article touches on how the tools work, he is the person who actually built them.
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