The MacRumors Show: iPhone 18 Pro Event Expectations

Live updates

1. 21d ago

   iPhone 18 Pro Debuts With Hardware Upgrades and Early Glitches

   Apple has unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max featuring the A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, longer battery life, higher prices, and upgraded cameras with a new variable aperture system. Early buyers encountered hardware and software challenges, including a Face ID malfunction, speaker crackling sounds, and cellular issues on the AT&T network. Apple confirmed plans to issue a software patch early next week to resolve the Face ID bug. Meanwhile, AT&T urged customers experiencing network problems to update immediately. Third-party developers are already adapting to the hardware, with Halide releasing version 3.2 to support manual aperture control.

   Why it matters

   The iPhone 18 Pro series launched in mid-September. Early adoption has been complicated by technical snags that prompted carrier warnings and upcoming patches from Apple. At the same time, ancillary hardware developments continue, including the discovery of removable batteries in the AirPods 5 and software concepts for the upcoming iPhone Duo.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max featuring the A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, longer battery life, upgraded cameras, and higher prices.
   • Apple confirmed plans to issue a software patch early next week to resolve the Face ID malfunction.
   • AT&T acknowledged that some iPhone 18 Pro Max devices on its network are experiencing cellular issues and advised customers to update immediately.
   • Halide version 3.2 brings dedicated support for the iPhone 18 Pro by offering manual control over the new variable aperture camera system.

   Still unconfirmed

   • An indie developer built a virtual Sony Walkman app for the upcoming iPhone Duo using the foldable hinge.
   • Apple shelved a camera-equipped AI wearable pendant and a shorter Apple Pencil intended for the iPhone Duo.
   • AirPods 5 feature removable batteries.

   What to watch next

   • Release of Apple's software patch early next week to fix the Face ID bug
   • Further carrier updates regarding iPhone 18 Pro Max cellular connectivity
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. www.phonearena.com — iPhone 18 release date expectations, price estimates, and upgrades
   2. www.macworld.com — iPhone 18 Pro & Max Guide: Everything you need to know about the new iPhones
   3. www.macrumors.com — iPhone Duo Gets a Virtual Walkman App Ahead of Launch
   4. www.macrumors.com — Apple Watch SE 3 vs. Series 12 Buyer's Guide: Which Should You Buy?
   5. appleinsider.com — iPhone 18 Pro review: A massive camera update is just the beginning
   6. www.macrumors.com — AT&T Acknowledges iPhone 18 Pro Max Issues: 'Update Immediately'
   7. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Not Working? Try This - MacRumors
   8. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro Aperture Control Goes Fully Manual in Halide 3.2
   confidence 90%
2. 23d ago

   iPhone 18 Pro Users Face Hardware and Software Bugs

   Early buyers of the iPhone 18 Pro face hardware and software issues, including speaker crackling sounds and a Face ID bug. Apple confirmed plans to issue a software patch early next week to resolve the Face ID malfunction. Meanwhile, recent hardware breakdowns show the AirPods 5 feature removable batteries. Analysts report that Apple shelved a camera-equipped AI wearable pendant and a shorter Apple Pencil intended for the iPhone Duo. Additionally, minor staff cuts hit Apple Fitness+, signaling potential shifts for the service.

   Why it matters

   These hardware and software glitches emerge just weeks after the global rollout of the iPhone 18 Pro. While Apple works to issue quick software remedies for authentication errors, physical speaker complaints highlight ongoing quality control hurdles for fresh device cycles. The adjustments around wearable AI projects and accessories point to shifting strategic priorities inside Apple's hardware labs.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple confirmed to 9to5Mac's Benjamin Mayo that it plans to release a software update early next week with a fix for a Face ID issue affecting some iPhone 18 Pro users.
   • Some iPhone 18 Pro owners noticed an unusual crackling sound coming from the speaker of the device.
   • Apple laid off a handful of Apple Fitness+ employees last week, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

   Still unconfirmed

   • A shorter Apple Pencil for the iPhone Duo was in development, but Apple scrapped it due to technical problems ahead of mass production, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

   What to watch next

   • Release of Apple's confirmed software patch for the iPhone 18 Pro Face ID issue next week
   • Official company announcements regarding future wearable devices and AI accessory strategies
   Sources used for this update (27)

   1. www.macrumors.com — Apple Watch Ultra 3: Should You Buy? Reviews, Features and More - MacRumors
   2. www.macrumors.com — The MacRumors Show
   3. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro: Everything We Know | MacRumors
   4. www.macrumors.com — Apple CEO John Ternus Teases iPhone 18 Pro Launch Day
   5. www.macrumors.com — Apple Releases Xcode 27.1 Beta With iPhone Duo Support
   6. www.macrumors.com — A Shorter Apple Pencil Was Supposed to Launch Alongside iPhone Duo
   7. www.macrumors.com — Apple Fitness+ Layoffs Reported Ahead of Potential 'Major' Changes
   8. www.macrumors.com — iPhone Duo Can Do Split View, But Not Like Your iPad
   9. www.macrumors.com — Meta Did a 'One More Thing' and It's an AI Tamagotchi
   10. www.macrumors.com — Apple Confirms iPhone 18 Pro Bug Fix Update is Coming Next Week
   11. www.macrumors.com — watchOS 27.2 Code Hints at iPhone-Style Screenshot Previews
   12. www.macrumors.com — watchOS 27: 12 New Things To Check Out on Your Apple Watch
   confidence 90%
3. 36d ago

   iPhone 18 Pro Hits Stores Tomorrow as Apple Launches Photography Exhibit

   The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launch in stores tomorrow, September 18, following pre-orders that began September 12. These devices feature incremental changes over the iPhone 17 Pro and include new camera capabilities. Apple is promoting these features through "What Holds Us," a photography exhibition curated by Kathy Ryan and featuring work by Jimmy Chin, Jack Davison, and Alex Prager. While these standard models arrive now, the foldable iPhone Duo will not be available for over a month. Apple also released AirPods 5 but delayed camera-equipped earbuds until 2027.

   Why it matters

   This launch marks Apple's first venture into foldable hardware with the iPhone Duo. The transition to the 18 series emphasizes internal performance and camera systems over major aesthetic redesigns. The delayed camera-AirPods suggest a shift in the company's wearable timeline.

   What is confirmed

   • The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launch in stores on Friday, September 18.
   • Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro models began Saturday, September 12 at 5 a.m. Pacific Time.
   • The iPhone Duo is the first iPhone capable of running two apps side by side.
   • Apple released the AirPods 5 during the September event.
   • The "What Holds Us" photography exhibition showcases work shot exclusively on the iPhone 18 Pro.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Camera-equipped AirPods are delayed until 2027.
   • The iPhone Duo does not allow users to resize side-by-side windows.

   What to watch next

   • Retail performance and availability of the iPhone 18 Pro on September 18
   • Official release date for the iPhone Duo foldable
   Sources used for this update (12)

   1. www.macrumors.com — How to Lock in Your iPhone Ultra When Pre-Orders Go Live
   2. news.ssbcrack.com — Apple Delays Camera-Equipped AirPods to 2027 After Skipping Them at September Event
   3. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro Launching on September 18 With These 10 New Features
   4. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro: Release Date and Pre-Orders
   5. www.macrumors.com — iPhone Duo Can Do Split View, But Not Like Your iPad
   6. www.macrumors.com — Top Stories: Apple Event Recap With iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch, and AirPods
   7. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro Pre-Orders: Upgrading Gets You These 10 New Features
   8. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro Launching on Friday With These 10 New Features
   9. www.wired.com — Review: Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max
   10. mashable.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max review: It’s what’s on the inside that counts
   11. www.macrumors.com — Apple Announces iPhone 18 Pro Photography Exhibition
   12. www.apple.com — Celebrating “What Holds Us” on iPhone 18 Pro
   confidence 95%
4. 43d ago

   Apple Unveils iPhone 18 Pro and Foldable iPhone Duo

   Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, at the "Surprise and shine" event on September 9. The product lineup also includes the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5. The foldable model is a centerpiece of the launch, with reports indicating it features a 5.5-inch cover screen and a nearly 8-inch internal display. Apple's online storefront went offline shortly before the presentation began at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.

   Why it matters

   This event marks Apple's entry into the foldable phone market. The launch follows expectations that the Pro models would maintain the iPhone 17 Pro design while receiving internal hardware upgrades.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at its September 2026 "Surprise and shine" event.
   • The foldable iPhone is named the iPhone Duo.
   • The event included the reveal of Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5.
   • Apple's online storefront went down before the event.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The iPhone Duo features a 5.5-inch cover screen and a nearly 8-inch display when unfolded.
   • The iPhone 18 Pro has a dynamic aperture main camera.

   What to watch next

   • Official pricing and availability for the iPhone Duo
   • Detailed hardware specifications for the iPhone 18 Pro internal upgrades
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. www.netnewsledger.com — Apple September 2026 Event Preview: Foldable iPhone Expected to Lead Major Product Launch
   2. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro to Be Unveiled Today: Here's What We Know
   3. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Apple Event 2026 Live Updates: iPhone 18 Pro, Foldable iPhone Ultra, Apple Watch launch; Surprise and Shine Event to reveal prices, specs, features and availability
   4. www.macrumors.com — Apple Store Down Ahead of 'Surprise and Shine' iPhone 18 Pro Event
   5. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo: Last-Minute Apple Event Rumors Today
   6. 9to5mac.com — How to watch Apple event today: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, more
   7. www.theverge.com — Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro has a dynamic aperture main camera
   8. www.cnet.com — My Favorite Things from Apple’s iPhone 18 Event
   9. 9to5mac.com — Apple Event News Hub: iPhone 18 Pro is here, more
   confidence 90%
5. 45d ago

   Apple to unveil iPhone 18 Pro and foldable iPhone Ultra tomorrow

   Apple scheduled an event for Wednesday, September 9, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable device, the iPhone Ultra. While these phones may maintain the design of the iPhone 17 Pro series, they are expected to include internal hardware upgrades. Some reports suggest a significant price increase for the Pro models in the U.S. market. This launch may be the first of several product waves extending into early 2027.

   Why it matters

   The event marks the transition to a new leadership era under Ternus and follows the M6 chip debut. It introduces the first foldable hardware in Apple's phone lineup.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple will hold an event on Wednesday, September 9, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.
   • The event will unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
   • Apple is expected to introduce a foldable iPhone Ultra.

   Still unconfirmed

   • iPhone 18 Pro models may cost $200 to $300 more than iPhone 17 Pro models in the U.S.
   • The devices may feature an A20 Pro chip and a smaller Dynamic Island.
   • Apple may release a second wave of Macs, iPads, home products, and iPhones through early 2027.

   What to watch next

   • Official confirmation of iPhone 18 Pro pricing
   • Announcement of pre-order dates
   • Confirmation of A20 Pro chip specifications
   Sources used for this update (4)

   1. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro: Release Date and Pre-Orders
   2. www.macrumors.com — Apple to Unveil iPhone 18 Pro Tomorrow With These 12 New Features
   3. www.theapplepost.com — Apple could have a second wave of products coming immediately after its iPhone event
   4. english.mathrubhumi.com — iPhone 18 launch: Date, time, live stream and what Apple may unveil
   confidence 90%
6. 45d ago

   Apple to reveal iPhone 18 Pro and foldable device at Wednesday event

   Apple will host its "surprise and shine" event this Wednesday, September 10, to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. The company is widely expected to introduce its first foldable device, potentially named the iPhone Ultra. This launch follows the recent debut of the M6 chip and marks a new leadership era under Ternus. The iPhone 18 Pro Max may feature exclusive hardware upgrades over the standard Pro model, including a larger battery and a variable-aperture camera.

   Why it matters

   Apple enters the foldable market late compared to Samsung and Google, creating pressure for the new device to justify the delay. The event signals a shift in hardware architecture following the release of the M6 chip.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple is hosting a surprise and shine event this Wednesday.
   • Apple will launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Apple will reveal the iPhone Ultra, its first foldable device.
   • The iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature a variable-aperture camera and a larger battery.
   • Apple is considering a round display for future Apple Watch models.
   • A device called the iPhone Duo may be Apple's first foldable.

   What to watch next

   • Official product specifications for the iPhone Ultra
   • Confirmation of the iPhone 18 Pro Max camera hardware
   • The actual reveal of the Apple Watch design during the event
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. www.dailymail.com — Apple is hosting its 'surprise and shine' event this week where it could unveil its foldable iPhone Ultra - here's how you can watch live
   2. www.macrumors.com — Apple Watch With Round Display Rumored
   3. zeerawireless.com — iPhone Duo: Is This Apple’s First Foldable iPhone?
   4. www.theapplepost.com — What Apple probably won’t announce at its September 9 event
   5. www.theapplepost.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max could be the model to watch at Apple’s event
   confidence 85%
7. 47d ago

   Apple Prepares for Massive iPhone 18 Pro and Foldable Launch

   Apple prepares to host its September 9 launch event featuring the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, alongside its first foldable iPhone. Market expectations point to the company introducing its biggest-ever slate of new products, kicking off the Ternus era under new leadership. Analysts anticipate new Siri devices and updates tied to hardware releases following the recent debut of the M6 chip, which offers hints regarding the architecture of the upcoming A20 Pro processor.

   Why it matters

   The September event carries the tagline Surprise and Shine and marks a transition in executive leadership alongside a notably expansive product lineup. Recent hardware disclosures, including the August 25 announcement of the M6 chip, provide architectural insight into the silicon developments expected inside the new iPhone generation. Observers are tracking how these hardware changes align with broader software integrations like new Siri devices.

   What is confirmed

   • Apple will hold its annual fall iPhone event on Wednesday, September 9.
   • The upcoming event carries the tagline Surprise and Shine.
   • Apple announced the M6 chip on August 25.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at the September event.
   • Apple is expected to introduce its first foldable iPhone during the presentation.
   • The A20 Pro chip in the iPhone 18 Pro will share architectural traits with the M6 chip.
   • The event will feature brand new Siri devices and a massive slate of products kicking off the Ternus era.

   What to watch next

   • Official product announcements at the September 9 launch event
   • Confirmation of A20 Pro processor specifications and architecture
   • Pricing and release date details for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup and foldable iPhone
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. MacRumors — The MacRumors Show: iPhone 18 Pro Event Expectations
   2. Bloomberg.com — Apple to Kick Off Ternus Era With Its Biggest-Ever Slate of New Products
   3. The Verge — What to expect at Apple’s September 9th launch event
   4. mashable.com — The latest iPhone 18 news, leaks, and rumors: Release date, price increases, new colors
   5. Macworld — Your wallet can sit out next week’s Apple event
   6. www.macrumors.com — Top Stories: 'Surprise and Shine' Apple Event Preview, John Ternus Takes Over, and More
   7. www.macworld.com — Get ready, Apple’s iPhone event is massive this year
   8. www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro: Everything M6 Tells Us About the A20 Chip
   9. www.macrumors.com — Four Sleeps Until iPhone 18 Pro: Here's What We Know
   confidence 90%