Apple said to launch iPhone 18 Pro on September 9: Full leaked specs, price in India

Apple is reportedly set to launch the iPhone 18 Pro series on September 9, with leaks pointing to a smaller Dynamic Island, an A20 chip, upgraded cameras, and bigger batteries. The Pro models could also become significantly more expensive in India, with prices reportedly rising by up to Rs 20,000.

In Short

• Apple tipped to launch iPhone 18 Pro lineup on September 7
• Leaks suggest A20 chip, variable-aperture camera and bigger battery
• India prices could increase by up to Rs 20,000

Apple's biggest launch event of the year is now just weeks away. After months of leaks and speculation, a fresh Bloomberg report claims that the company is set to announce the iPhone 18 Pro series in the first half of September. The report does not mention the exact date but speculation pegs the Apple event could take place on September 9, just like last year. Bloomberg says the company has already informed employees about the upcoming event and is even running a special lottery program for retail staff who want to help manage the in-person launch. The September event is expected to be one of Apple's biggest in recent years. Apart from the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, the company is also rumoured to introduce its first foldable iPhone, new Apple Watch models and other hardware.

According to Bloomberg, Apple has invited retail employees in the US to apply for what it calls the "Event Support Experience Program." Selected staff members will help with guest check-ins, crowd management, security support and guiding attendees during the launch event.

Employees have until August 8 to apply, while those selected will be informed by August 17. Apple has reportedly used retail employees for major product launches in the past as well. Those who worked at this year's WWDC or last year's iPhone launch are not eligible for this program. Although Apple hasn't confirmed the exact event date, Bloomberg suggests a September 9 launch appears likely, as it fits the company's usual launch schedule in early September.

iPhone 18 Pro: Full specs (leaked)

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are said to retain a design similar to last year's models, including the raised rear camera module. However, Apple could refresh the lineup with new colour options, including dark cherry red, light blue and a darker grey finish. The Pro Max model is also rumoured to become slightly thicker and heavier, reportedly to make room for a larger battery.

Display sizes are expected to remain unchanged at 6.3 inches for the iPhone 18 Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max. Apple is tipped to introduce upgraded LTPO+ display technology, which could improve both brightness and power efficiency. Another major design change could be a smaller Dynamic Island. According to tipster Ice Universe, Apple may reduce the size of the cutout by around 35 percent by moving more Face ID components beneath the display.

The camera system could receive one of its biggest upgrades in years. Multiple leaks suggest Apple may introduce a variable-aperture main camera for the first time on an iPhone. Unlike the fixed aperture found on current models, this technology would automatically adjust the amount of light entering the sensor, potentially improving low-light photos, reducing overexposed shots in bright conditions and creating more natural-looking portrait effects.

Powering the new phones is expected to be Apple's next-generation A20 chip, which is rumoured to be built using TSMC's advanced 2nm manufacturing process. The chipset is expected to deliver faster performance while improving battery efficiency.

Apple is also tipped to introduce its in-house C2 modem, which could offer better connectivity and improved support for advanced satellite communication features. Battery life may also improve. Leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max could pack a battery of up to 5,200mAh, while the standard Pro model is also expected to receive a modest battery upgrade.

Leaked India and US prices so far

The biggest surprise could be the price. The current iPhone 17 Pro starts at Rs 1,34,999 in India, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at Rs 1,49,999. With the iPhone 18 Pro series, several leaks now suggest Apple could increase prices by up to Rs 20,000, with some retailers reportedly expecting the hike to be as high as Rs 30,000.

Similar price increases are also being rumoured for the US market, where the new Pro models could cost up to $300 more than their predecessors due to rising manufacturing and component costs. As per recent rumours, the iPhone 18 Pro could start at $1,299, with higher storage variants going up to $1,399. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is tipped to start at $1,399 and could go up to $1,499, while the rumoured iPhone Ultra may be priced between $2,399 and $2,499 in the US.

As always, Apple has not officially confirmed any of these details. The launch date, specifications and pricing are all based on leaks and reports, so they should be treated as rumours until the company makes an official announcement.

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