GoKawiilCNET Survey: Readers Expect Ternus-Cook Joint Appearance, Three New iPhones at Apple Event
CNET's Big Guessing Game contest concluded its third round ahead of Apple's Sept. 9 'Surprise and shine' event, with 71% of respondents predicting new CEO John Ternus will appear alongside former CEO Tim Cook, now executive chairman. Half of participants expect three new iPhone models to be unveiled, following an earlier round where 80% guessed Apple's first foldable phone would debut at the event.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The leadership transition from Cook to Ternus marks a symbolic moment for Apple, and public appearances at major launches often signal how the company wants to frame continuity and succession. Consumer anticipation around a foldable iPhone and a possible split iPhone 18 lineup also hints at shifting product strategy that could affect pricing and release timing well into 2026 and 2027.
- 71% of survey respondents expect Ternus and Cook to appear together on stage.
- 50% predict three new iPhone models, with 80% earlier expecting a foldable iPhone debut.
- Apple may split the iPhone 18 lineup launch between this year and 2027.
Apple Watch Series 11 — The contest prize itself is Apple's newest smartwatch, and the Series 11 is the one everyone's guessing about ahead of the event. It brings Apple's latest health tracking, notifications and fitness features to your wrist and pairs seamlessly with iPhone. A fitting pickup if you don't want to leave it to a drawing.
See Apple Watch Series 11 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnet.com — Dashia Milden, 2026-09-04
Published there as: “Apple Is Full of Surprises. Here’s What CNET Readers Anticipate Ahead of Wednesday’s Event”
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