GoKawiilIt seems like everyone is anticipating the first foldable iPhone at Apple’s “Surprise and shine” event on Wednesday, Sept. 9. That’s not all we can expect.
Apple could show us the latest models of some of its best-known devices, like the AirPods 5, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. On top of that, we can expect at least part of the iPhone 18 series lineup. Apple’s known to surprise us with a few new features and devices, so that’s not all we’re expecting.
In the meantime, we’ve been having fun guessing what Apple’s up to while we wait for the big announcements that are now hours away. The CNET Group has been hosting the Big Guessing Game contest across its websites — CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag and ZDNET. The first round of our game focused on Apple’s software, the second round focused on its devices, and the third round of the Apple event just wrapped up. A brand-new Apple Watch is up for grabs to the winner with the most correct guesses.
We won’t know some of the answers for certain until the big day, but here’s what CNET readers expect.
Nearly 80% expect Apple’s first foldable phone
Most CNET readers (77%) think Apple will debut its first foldable phone this year. Many leaked rumors and reports suggest it could be as soon as September.
There’s plenty of speculation around the design, price and name. Apple could name it the iPhone Fold, iPhone Ultra or iPhone Flip. It might fold like a book, resembling other foldable phones like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. There’s also the rumor of a clamshell-style design like the Motorola Razr models and the just-announced Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8.
One other big question is how much the phone will cost, given the global RAM shortage and Apple’s recent price hikes. Some rumors say the phone could start at $2,000 and go up to $2,500.
We don’t know whether Apple will unveil a foldable phone tomorrow, but in the past, it has announced new phones at its September event. For example, the iPhone 17 models and iPhone Air were announced on Sept. 9, 2025, at Apple’s “Awe Dropping” keynote. And the iPhone 16 models were released on Sept. 9, 2024, at the “It’s Glowtime” keynote.
Over 70% predict a black iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max
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