Apple has officially set the date: September 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. PT. The tagline? “Surprise and shine.”
Sounds simple enough. But with Apple, the invitation is rarely just an invitation.
The glowing Apple logo has already sparked plenty of speculation, with three details standing out: the light, the blue and that curious shape.
A Camera Clue?
That bright glow in the middle of the Apple logo could be more than a visual effect. Some reports suggest it may hint at a variable-aperture camera coming to the iPhone 18 Pro Max, giving the camera more control over how much light enters the lens.
Coincidence? Maybe. But Apple does love a good hint.
A New Shade of Blue?
The invitation is drenched in a soft, icy blue. Naturally, people are wondering if Apple is teasing a new blue colour for the iPhone 18 Pro.
Nothing is confirmed yet, but if that colour makes its way onto the new iPhone, Apple may have just given us a sneak peek without saying a word.
And Then… A Foldable iPhone?
This is the big one.
Apple is rumoured to finally enter the foldable phone race with its first foldable iPhone, featuring a book-style design. Reports suggest it could be around 5.5 inches when closed and 7.8 inches when open, turning into something closer to a mini tablet.
To keep the design incredibly thin, Apple may make a few compromises, including Touch ID instead of Face ID and a simpler camera setup.
If true, this would be Apple's first major new iPhone form factor since the iPhone X in 2017. Now that would be a surprise.
More Than Just iPhone
The iPhone won't be the only thing to watch. Apple is also expected to introduce the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, with possible new smart-home products such as an updated Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini and the long-rumoured home hub.
We should also get release dates for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS Golden Gate and other upcoming software updates.
At Chic Straps, we’ll be watching closely, especially when the new Apple Watches make their appearance. Because new Apple hardware always brings one important question:
What are you wearing with it?
Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event takes place on September 9 at 10 a.m. PT.
Until then, we’ll be reading between the lines.