Apple typically announces its new hardware in the fall, and this year is likely no different. The event is reported to take place on September 9, with Apple expected to unveil its iPhone 17 lineup, along with updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods. Rumors are swirling about bigger screens, improved cameras for the iPhone 17 models, and the potential introduction of an ultra-thin iPhone Air that could replace the Plus model.
The iPhone 17 is expected to undergo a significant redesign to align more closely with the Pro models. It may feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen, an increase of 0.2 inches compared to the iPhone 16, as well as a 120Hz display—a major upgrade from the current 60Hz. A 24-megapixel front camera is also rumored, along with new color options like purple and green.
For the iPhone 17 Pro, upgrades may be most noticeable on the back of the device. Conceptual renderings suggest the three rear cameras could be arranged in a rectangular bar that spans from one edge to the other, with the flash, light sensor, and microphone positioned to the far right. The Apple logo is said to be centered where the MagSafe charger sits, likely for aesthetic reasons.
The iPhone 17 Pro may also switch materials, potentially replacing the titanium band around the screen with aluminum. This change could help reduce costs while offering a lighter feel. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to see fewer upgrades, with the most significant change being a slightly thicker body to accommodate a larger battery—a welcome improvement. Pricing is rumored to start at around $800 for the base iPhone 17, $1,050 for the Pro, and $1,250 for the Pro Max.
One of the most talked-about rumors is the introduction of the iPhone Air, which could become Apple’s slimmest phone ever. With a profile thickness of just 5.5 mm, it would be about 0.08 inches thinner than current iPhones and feature a 6.6-inch screen. This move appears to be Apple’s response to the trend of ultra-thin smartphones, following competitors like Samsung and Huawei. The iPhone Air could even surpass the rumored thickness of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
However, the slim design may come with compromises. Renders suggest the iPhone Air will have only one rear camera lens, unlike the Plus model’s dual-camera setup. There are also concerns about speaker placement, with rumors suggesting audio may only come from the front earpiece. The device is expected to be priced at $950 and available in black, silver, and light gold.
For the Apple Watch, the Ultra 3 is rumored to see significant changes after a two-year wait. Potential upgrades include faster charging, 5G support, satellite connectivity, and a larger display. Both the Ultra 3 and Series 11 may also introduce blood pressure monitoring and sleep apnea detection, though reports suggest these features could face delays for further refinement.
The third-generation Apple Watch SE isn’t expected to receive major updates, aside from a possible larger display. There are also rumors of a plastic version being introduced. Pricing is rumored at $250 for the SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
As for the AirPods Pro 3, an upgrade is overdue since the release of the AirPods Pro 2 in 2022. Rumors point to a sleeker design, touch-sensitive controls, smaller earbuds, and a slimmer case. The new H3 chip is expected to enhance active noise cancellation and adaptive audio performance.
With these potential releases, Apple’s September event could bring exciting updates across its product lineup, from iPhones to wearables and audio devices.