Apple has officially entered the foldable market with the launch of the iPhone Duo, a device that merges smartphone and tablet functionality. The new foldable features a 5.5-inch cover screen and an expansive 7.8-inch inner display, adopting a passport-style design. The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999, with storage options ranging from 256GB to 2TB. Pre-orders are scheduled for October 16, with general availability starting October 23.
iPhone Duo (Apple Events, September 9, 2026) — via apple.com/apple-events
Alongside the foldable, Apple introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. While maintaining a design similar to previous generations, these models feature faster processing and an upgraded camera system. A key highlight is the introduction of a variable-aperture lens, allowing users more control over depth of field and light intake. Technical leaks from iOS 27 suggest these Pro models support a 33% higher charging rate than the iPhone 17 Pro, potentially reducing fast-charging times by approximately 25%.
iPhone 18 Pro (Apple Events, September 9, 2026) — via apple.com/apple-events
Wearables and AI Integration
The event also saw the debut of the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. As previously detailed on AlexTech.ai, the Ultra 4 arrives with doubled health sensors and a dedicated chip for Siri AI. Both watches introduce 'Recaps', an AI-driven feature that summarizes the user's day based on sensor data, a functionality already anticipated in previous reports. The Series 12 is a minor refresh featuring an updated chip and all-day heart-rate tracking.
Rounding out the hardware announcements were the AirPods 5 earphones. The event was led by John Ternus, who officially took over as CEO on September 1, succeeding Tim Cook, who now serves as executive chairman.
Market Strategy and Future Releases
In a departure from tradition, the base iPhone 18 will not be released today. Following earlier analysis, the standard iPhone 18, along with the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2, are expected to launch in the spring of 2027. This shift allows Apple to focus its immediate marketing efforts on the high-end Pro series and the disruptive iPhone Duo.
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