Apple to Skip iPhone 18 and 4 Other Devices at September Event

Q: At $2,500, will next month's rumored foldable iPhone redefine luxury tech, or become Apple's most expensive mainstream flop?

At $2,500, Apple’s foldable iPhone is more likely to define a new ultra-premium niche than become a mainstream hit, but that also means it will not be judged by normal iPhone sales standards. The rumored device appears designed as a halo product, not a mass-market phone. Reports point to a book-style foldable with a 5.5-inch outer screen, a 7.8-inch inner display, a near-crease-free panel, titanium construction, a new A20 Pro chip on TSMC’s 2nm process, and iPad-like multitasking. Those features would make it one of the most advanced foldables yet, and Apple’s brand strength could expand the category. IDC has estimated Apple could quickly capture roughly a quarter of the foldable market if it launches in 2026. But the risks are real. At $2,000 to $2,500, it would sit well above Samsung’s foldables and far above conventional iPhones. It may also ship with notable compromises for that price, including Touch ID instead of Face ID, only two rear cameras, and likely limited launch supply due to manufacturing challenges. Foldables still represent a small share of the global phone market, and surveys continue to show broad consumer reluctance. That makes the key question not whether it sells like a regular iPhone, but whether it can justify its price as a luxury productivity device. If Apple delivers standout durability, minimal crease visibility, and software that truly makes the larger screen useful, it could redefine luxury tech. If not, it risks being admired more than bought.

3 articles · Updated · Tom's Guide · Aug 21

Apple’s September launch is now expected to leave out at least five rumored products, including the standard iPhone 18, camera-equipped AirPods Ultra, a touchscreen MacBook Pro Ultra, an OLED iPad mini and a new Apple Watch SE.
The biggest shift is the iPhone lineup: Apple is tipped to show only three phones in September—the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone Ultra—while the standard iPhone 18 moves to early 2027.
2027 also appears to be the target for AirPods Ultra, with reports citing supply-chain and software problems despite a leaked macOS Tahoe 26.7 demo hinting at camera-equipped buds.
Macs and iPads are also likely to miss the show because Apple usually stages them separately, with the touchscreen MacBook Pro Ultra and OLED iPad mini more likely in October if ready.
That still leaves a packed event centered on flagship iPhones, with Apple Watch Series 12, Watch Ultra 4, a new Apple TV 4K, a HomePod mini refresh and possibly a smart home hub.