Apple's recent "Surprise and Shine" event unveiled several new and upgraded products, with preorders starting at various dates for devices like the iPhone Duo, AirPods 5, Apple Watch Series 12, and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Availability for some models begins as early as September 18.
iPhone Duo
The iPhone Duo, Apple's inaugural foldable phone, is set to open for preorders on October 16 and will be released on October 23. When closed, the device features an asymmetric design with two rounded and two sharper corners. Unfolded, it approximates the shape of an iPad and is notably the thinnest iPhone ever. The exterior display measures 5.4 inches, expanding to a 7.6-inch main screen that Apple states is 50% larger than the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 80% larger than the iPhone 18 Pro. The iPhone Duo will be available in Star White and Night Sky colors.
Due to its foldable nature, the Duo utilizes a passport-like aspect ratio. Apple has adapted its apps to feature essential controls in a vertical line on the right side of the unfolded display. The device supports various usage modes, such as propping it open like a laptop to watch videos on the top half without a stand, or displaying time and weather on the outer screen when placed tent-style. The Camera app can also show subjects their own image on the outer screen during photo capture.
AirPods 5
Preorders for the new AirPods 5 are available now, with a release date of September 18. This latest generation of Apple's standard earbuds now includes active noise cancellation across all models, including the $129 version. Apple claims the noise cancellation in AirPods 5 is 50% more effective than its predecessor. Additional features include live translation and automatic switching between transparency mode and noise cancellation based on ambient sound.
The $149 model comes with a wireless charging case and volume controls on the stems, while the $129 model omits these conveniences. The wireless charging case is an additional $20.
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are also available for preorder now, with a release date of September 18.
A significant new feature for the Apple Watch Series 12 is "Audio Intelligence," which enables Siri to listen to surrounding audio and provide summaries. This functionality can transcribe the past 15 seconds of audio for users who miss something during conversations, lectures, or meetings. Apple maintains that this data remains on the device, addressing potential privacy concerns.
Beyond this, improvements to the Apple Watch Series 12 are largely iterative, including what Apple describes as the "most accurate heart rate sensing in a wearable" and a redesigned Health app aimed at habit formation.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 boasts the longest battery life of any Apple Watch, offering up to 45 hours of tracking for extended workouts.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
Preorders for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will begin on September 12, with availability starting September 19. These models represent iterative upgrades over previous versions. A key new camera feature is the 48MP Fusion Main camera, which incorporates a variable aperture for enhanced low-light photography and videography. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is reported to have the longest battery life of any iPhone, capable of 45 hours of video playback.
Powered by the A20 Pro chip, these iPhones come in four color options: black, silver, glacier (a light blue), and burgundy.