Apple set to unveil first foldable iPhone as new CEO John Ternus takes the stage

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA — Apple is expected to take a major step into the foldable smartphone market as it prepares to unveil its latest iPhone lineup, with the company’s new chief executive, John Ternus, set to lead his first major product launch.

The September 9 event could mark one of the biggest changes to Apple’s flagship smartphone in years, with the company widely expected to introduce its first-ever foldable iPhone. The anticipated device would represent Apple’s entry into a category already occupied by rivals including Samsung, Google and Motorola.

The launch is particularly significant because it comes just days after Ternus officially succeeded Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO. Ternus, who previously served as Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, became chief executive on September 1.

A NEW ERA FOR THE IPHONE

Reports suggest the anticipated foldable iPhone could open like a book or passport, providing users with a substantially larger display while remaining compact when closed.

Some reports have suggested a price of more than $2,000, potentially making it one of Apple’s most expensive smartphones. However, Apple has not publicly confirmed the device’s name, specifications or price ahead of the launch.

Apple’s decision to enter the foldable market comes years after competitors introduced their own devices. Analysts believe the company’s late arrival could work to its advantage, allowing Apple to learn from the durability, hinge and display problems that have affected earlier foldable smartphones.

HIGH STAKES FOR TERNUS

For Ternus, the event represents his first major public test as Apple’s chief executive.

Having spent much of his career overseeing Apple’s hardware development, Ternus now faces the challenge of convincing consumers that Apple’s version of the foldable smartphone is worth its expected premium price.

The company is also expected to introduce new premium iPhone models alongside other products, making the event an important moment for Apple’s hardware business.

APPLE’S FOLDABLE GAMBLE

Foldable smartphones remain a relatively small segment of the overall mobile phone market, despite years of investment by competing manufacturers.

Apple’s entry could nevertheless change the industry’s direction. Analysts believe the company’s enormous customer base and influence over smartphone design could help push foldable technology further into the mainstream.

For now, however, the foldable iPhone remains an expected announcement rather than a confirmed product until Apple officially takes the stage.

If unveiled, the device could mark one of the most important changes to the iPhone since the introduction of the iPhone X — and provide the first major statement about the future of Apple under John Ternus.