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Genevieve P
iD Mobile Employee
iD Mobile Employee
September 23, 2026
Blog

Apple's September 2026 event: iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro & everything else.

  • September 23, 2026
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Apple's September event delivered one of the biggest iPhone shake-ups in years. Alongside the powerful new iPhone 18 Pro range, Apple also unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first-ever foldable iPhone.

Apple also announced updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods line-ups. So, if you’re wondering whether it's worth upgrading to a new device, here’s everything that was announced…

 

iPhone Duo: Apple goes foldable

Apple has finally entered the folding phone game with the iPhone Duo. When it’s closed, there’s a compact 5.4-inch outer display. Open it up and you'll get the largest iPhone display ever, with 50% more screen space than the iPhone 18 Pro Max. The extra screen space makes it easier to multitask between apps, stream shows and enjoy mobile gaming.

It's not just the hardware that's new. Apple has redesigned parts of iOS for the foldable display, with software that adapts whether the Duo is folded, unfolded or propped up for hands-free use. Apple has also introduced a new dual-battery system that it says delivers all-day battery life across both screens.

 

iPhone 18 Pro: Better power, performance and photos

Apple revealed the newest additions to the iPhone family – the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone 18 Pro Max. The iPhone 18 Pro Max holds up to six extra hours of video playback compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. That's enough to cover a transatlantic flight or a TV series binge on a single charge.

Under the hood, the new vapour-cooled A20 Pro chip is built for demanding AI workloads. This means it can handle more complex tasks faster and stays cooler while doing it. Apple has also introduced faster wired charging, with the iPhone 18 Pro able to reach 50% charge in around 15 minutes.

The camera upgrades are even more exciting. The new 48MP Fusion Main camera introduces variable aperture, allowing the camera to adjust how much light it captures. In simple terms, that gives you more control over everything from low-light shots to background blur effects.

 

Apple Watch Series 12 & Ultra 4: Stronger health sensing

Apple also unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12, which has a new Health Sensing System. It features Apple's most accurate heart rate sensing yet, making it even more useful for keeping an eye on everyday health and fitness metrics.

Apple says the Apple Watch Ultra 4 offers its longest battery life yet, including up to 45 hours of Max Extended Workout tracking. That's particularly useful for endurance athletes, hikers and anyone who spends long periods away from a charger.

 

AirPods 5: More sound control

Apple says AirPods 5 offer up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation than the previous generation. Great if you want to block out more background noise when you're commuting, focusing or working in a busy environment.

They also announced a version of the AirPods 5 with a Wireless Charging Case. Alongside support for USB-C, Apple Watch and Qi chargers, it has swipe controls on the stem, so you can adjust the volume without reaching for your phone.

 

Should you upgrade?

Whether or not you upgrades depends on what you’re looking for:

  • The iPhone Duo is the standout choice for multitaskers, big-screen fans and anyone keen to try Apple's first foldable device.
  • The iPhone 18 Pro range is a solid choice for photography enthusiasts, mobile gamers and those tempted by a longer battery life.
  • If you're already using an iPhone 17 Pro, the battery and camera improvements may be the biggest reasons to upgrade. Coming from an older iPhone? You'll likely notice a much bigger leap across the board.

Thinking about your contract? Now's a smart time to weigh up your options. You can get the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max right now from iD mobile with flexible plans. Then keep your eyes peeled for the iPhone Duo, available from 23rd October.

 

Which announcement caught your eye? Are you tempted by the foldable iPhone Duo, or is the iPhone 18 Pro lineup calling your name? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.