Apple expected to unveil first foldable iPhone as new CEO Ternus takes stage

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL, XETRA:APC) is set to unveil its first foldable iPhone alongside a refreshed Pro lineup, in John Ternus's first major product launch as CEO. The event, dubbed "Surprise and shine," is scheduled for Wednesday at 1pm ET. Media reports cited in the note indicate the foldable iPhone, which could be named Fold or Ultra, will start at $2,099 for the base configuration, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone to date. Apple is expected to unveil three new iPhones at the event: an updated 18 Pro and Pro Max with a 2nm A20 Pro chip and camera upgrades, plus a book-style foldable with dual OLED displays, 12GB RAM and up to 2TB storage, all running iOS 27. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could see price increases of $150 to $200 due to elevated memory and storage costs. BofA analysts said the key focus for investors will be the foldable iPhone, potentially meaningful price increases across the Pro line, and Apple's decision to shift its lower-priced iPhone 18 models to spring 2027. Analysts highlighted strong capital returns, the company's position as an eventual leader in AI at the edge, and optionality from new products. The base iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Air and iPhone 18e are reportedly planned for spring 2027 rather than the holiday period, a shift BofA described as a meaningful change from Apple's historical launch cadence. The bank said this would leave only premium new models available during the holiday selling season. BofA sees the split launch as potentially supportive of mix and average selling prices, though it noted a risk that price-sensitive consumers could defer upgrades until the lower-priced models arrive. BofA also pointed to a pattern of "sell the news" reactions in Apple shares following past launch events, with a modest pullback typically followed by a recovery over the subsequent 30 to 60 days. The bank said this year's investor reaction will likely hinge on the size of the price increases, adoption of Siri AI features, and management commentary on foldable demand. BofA said Apple could also use the event to launch the Apple Watch Series 12 and/or Ultra 4, and AirPods 5, and may preview or launch additional smart-home products, including an updated Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini. More News