Apple will hold its new hardware event on September 9 at 10 am. PT. The company is expected to release the iPhone 17 lineup, alongside updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods.
According to TechCrunch, multiple reports suggested that the iPhone 17 range may introduce larger displays and improved cameras. There is also speculation that Apple will unveil an ultra-thin iPhone Air, possibly replacing the Plus model.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that this event may mark the beginning of a three-year period of major iPhone redesigns, culminating in a foldable iPhone projected for release in 2026.
iPhone 17, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 may undergo a notable redesign to resemble the Pro models more closely. It could include a 6.3-inch screen, 0.2 inches larger than that of the iPhone 16, and a 120 Hz display, up from the current 60 Hz. A 24-megapixel front-facing camera is also expected.
New colour options may include purple and green.
On the Pro models, key upgrades may appear on the rear. Concept renderings indicate a horizontal camera bar running across the back of the device, with the flash, light sensor and microphone set on the far-right side. The Apple logo could be centrally positioned near the MagSafe charger area for aesthetic alignment.
The iPhone 17 Pro may feature an aluminium band in place of titanium, potentially reducing costs and weight.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max may receive minimal changes. A slightly thicker body is expected, which may allow for a larger battery.
The iPhone 17 may be priced at approximately $800, while the Pro Max may reach $1,250. The Pro model is expected to cost about $1,100. However, recent reports suggest it may offer fewer storage options, dropping the 128GB version and retaining 256GB, 512GB and 1TB capacities.
Apple may also reveal new phone cases. A leak has shown “TechWoven” iPhone Pro 17 cases, made from a high-quality woven material, unlike the discontinued “FineWoven” line from 2023. Some versions may include a crossbody strap.
iPhone Air
Among the most discussed rumours is the potential launch of Apple’s thinnest phone to date, the iPhone Air, expected to replace the iPhone Plus.
The device may have a thickness of 5.5 mm — about 0.08 inches thinner than current models — and a 6.6-inch screen.
This development may reflect Apple’s response to the broader market trend towards slimmer devices, as seen in models by Samsung and Huawei. The iPhone Air may even outmatch the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which is 5.8 mm thick. It could also serve as a precursor to the foldable iPhone forecasted for September 2026.
Despite the appeal of its slim design, the Air may involve trade-offs. Based on renderings, it may include only one rear camera lens, in contrast to the two found on the Plus. There are reports of insufficient space for a bottom speaker, which may limit audio output to the top earpiece.
Battery life remains uncertain, but its slim profile may lead to reduced performance. Some sources suggest a separate battery case may be available to offset this issue.
Initial pricing indicates a $950 retail price, with expected colour options of black, silver and light gold. A separate report from JPMorgan places the price closer to $899 due to the absence of a second camera.
Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE 3
After two years, Apple may bring significant changes to the Apple Watch Ultra 3. These could include faster charging, 5G capability and satellite support. A larger display is also under discussion.
The Ultra 3 and Series 11 may include a new blood pressure-monitoring function, alerting users to high or low readings. A sleep apnoea feature is also under consideration, though Gurman has reported possible delays to these additions.
Apple has confirmed the rollout of a redesigned blood oxygen feature to some Series 8, 10 and Ultra models, raising expectations that Ultra 3 may adopt it as well. However, Apple has not specified whether it will appear in watchOS 26.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is unlikely to receive major updates, aside from a possible increase in display size. There are also continued reports of a plastic variant.
Prices are expected at $250 for the SE 3, $400 for the Series 11 and $800 for the Ultra 3.
AirPods Pro 3
Following the 2022 release of the AirPods Pro 2, Apple may be ready to unveil the AirPods Pro 3. These could offer a more compact design, touch-sensitive controls, smaller earbuds and a slimmer case. One rumour suggests the removal of the pairing button, allowing users to tap the case instead.
