Apple is known for its tradition of unveiling new hardware in the fall, and this year is anticipated to follow suit. The highly anticipated event is reportedly scheduled for September 9, where Apple is expected to launch its latest iPhone 17 lineup, along with updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. As is customary, numerous rumors are circulating about potential features and enhancements, including larger screens and improved cameras for the iPhone 17 models. Additionally, the introduction of an ultra-slim iPhone Air is speculated, which might replace the existing Plus model.
The iPhone 17 is expected to undergo a significant redesign to better align with the Pro models. It may feature a larger 6.3-inch display, which is a 0.2-inch increase compared to the iPhone 16, and a remarkable upgrade to a 120Hz refresh rate, moving away from the current 60Hz. Furthermore, it is rumored to include a 24-megapixel front camera and may be available in new color options such as purple and green.
For the iPhone 17 Pro, upgrades are anticipated to be most visible on the back of the device, with conceptual designs suggesting a new arrangement for the three rear cameras. These may be organized in a rectangular bar that spans from one edge of the phone to the other, with the flash, light sensor, and microphone positioned on the far right. Additionally, the Apple logo is expected to be centrally located for aesthetic purposes. Notably, there are rumors that the iPhone 17 Pro will switch materials, potentially replacing the titanium band with aluminum, which could help Apple reduce costs while creating a lighter feel.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is believed to have fewer upgrades compared to its siblings, with the most notable change being a slightly thicker body designed to accommodate a larger battery, which would provide enhanced battery life. According to leaker Instant Digital, the pricing for the iPhone 17 is predicted to be around $800, while the Pro model may cost approximately $1,050, and the Pro Max is expected to have a price tag of $1,250.
One of the most talked-about rumors is the potential introduction of the iPhone Air, which could be Apple’s slimmest phone ever, replacing the iPhone Plus. This device is rumored to have a thickness of just 5.5 mm, making it 0.08 inches thinner than current iPhones, and will likely feature a 6.6-inch display. This move appears to be Apple's strategic response to the growing trend towards slimmer smartphones, competing directly with models like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which measures 5.8 mm thick.
The iPhone Air could potentially set the stage for Apple's long-rumored foldable phone, expected to debut in September 2026. However, this ultra-thin design comes with certain compromises. Based on available renders, the Air is expected to feature only one rear camera lens, in contrast to the Plus model, which has two. Additionally, there are concerns that the design may limit space for a bottom speaker, meaning audio could primarily be delivered through the front earpiece at the top. The projected price for the iPhone Air is $950, with color options including black, silver, and light gold.
After a two-year hiatus, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is rumored to undergo significant enhancements. Potential features include faster charging speeds, 5G support, and satellite connectivity, along with a larger display. One of the most exciting possibilities is the inclusion of blood pressure monitoring capabilities, which would alert users to abnormal blood pressure levels. Additionally, Apple is considering the integration of a sleep apnea feature. However, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, some of these features may face delays for further refinement.
The third-generation Apple Watch SE 3 is not expected to receive major updates, apart from a possible larger display. There are ongoing discussions about introducing a plastic version of the watch. The rumored pricing for the new watches includes $250 for the Apple Watch SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
As the September 9 event approaches, excitement builds around the anticipated releases of the iPhone 17 lineup, iPhone Air, and updates to the Apple Watch series. With significant upgrades and new features on the horizon, Apple fans are eager to see how these innovations will shape the future of mobile technology.
