Tech Desk: Apple is gearing up for its “Surprise and Shine” event on September 9, and this year’s iPhone lineup is breaking nearly a decade of tradition. Expect to see the high-end iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the much-anticipated iPhone Ultra, Apple’s first foldable device. This shift means no budget-friendly model will arrive to offset the significant price increases, with estimates suggesting a jump of Rs 9,000 to Rs 26,000, placing the Ultra in an unprecedented price bracket.

The iPhone Ultra promises a book-style foldable design, featuring a 5.4 to 5.5-inch outer screen and a larger 7.8-inch inner display. To achieve its remarkably thin profile, Face ID has been replaced by a Touch ID power button, and the telephoto lens removed, leaving dual 48-megapixel cameras. Apple’s engineering focus is evident in the liquid metal hinge and ultra-thin glass, aiming for an invisible crease that lasts. iOS 27 is also set to introduce iPad-style multitasking, crucial for the foldable experience.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Pro offers internal upgrades, retaining its 6.3-inch size. The A20 Pro chip promises an 18% speed boost. A major camera enhancement is expected with a variable aperture main sensor, a first for iPhones, allowing greater exposure control. The Dynamic Island is rumored to shrink by 35%, and a new Dark Cherry color will headline the lineup, alongside light blue and silver.

The larger iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature a nearly 10% bigger battery at 5,567mAh, enhancing its already impressive longevity. It’s expected to be slightly thicker and heavier, potentially reserving the variable aperture camera exclusively for this model. Beyond phones, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, plus AirPods 5, are also on the cards, with iOS 27 and other software updates arriving shortly after the event.