7 things to expect at the 'Surprise and shine' Apple event, from the iPhone Ultra to new AirPods

Apple’s big September event is under two weeks away at the time of writing, with invites having been sent out for a ‘Surprise and shine’ event on September 9.

So what surprises can you expect? Well, given how extensively Apple’s products and services tend to leak, there’s a chance there won’t be any major surprises at all.

But there certainly will be some big announcements — likely to be headlined by the first foldable iPhone, which could be dubbed the iPhone Ultra.

That’s probably going to be joined by other iPhones, Apple Watches, and an assortment of other devices, so there could be lots to see even if none of it comes as a complete surprise.

Below, we’ve detailed the most likely Apple announcements.

1.

The iPhone Ultra The iPhone Ultra could look a bit like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 (Image credit: Richard Priday / TechRadar) The iPhone Ultra is likely to be the biggest announcement at Apple’s ‘Surprise and shine’ event, as this is set to be the company’s first foldable phone — something we’ve heard rumors of for many years at this point.

In fact, it’s been so long now that it’s almost hard to believe it’s actually about to land, but all signs suggest it is.

Leaks point to the iPhone Ultra having a roughly 7.8-inch foldable screen and around a 5.5-inch cover display, with an overall design that’s somewhat similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 — so more of a passport shape than the book-style Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra .

This will likely have a dual-lens camera and top-end power, and reports suggest the screen might not have a visible crease.

It could be the phone you’ve been waiting for if you want an iPhone and an iPad mini all in one.

But it’s also sure to be very expensive, with leaks pointing to a starting price of at least $2,000 (around £1,470 / AU$2,785).

2.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max The iPhone 17 Pro's (pictured) successor is set to debut before the iPhone 18 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future) The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will almost certainly launch here too, for anyone who doesn’t want — or can’t afford — Apple’s foldable.