Cupertino: Apple has unveiled its latest hardware lineup, led by the iPhone 18 Pro series, the company’s first foldable smartphone—the iPhone Duo—and the new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4.
The devices introduce major upgrades in artificial intelligence, processing power, photography, health monitoring and battery life. Apple has also confirmed Indian pricing and availability for its new products.
iPhone 18 Pro Series Gets A20 Pro Chip
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are powered by Apple’s new A20 Pro processor. The chip features a Dual 16-core Neural Engine and increased memory bandwidth to support more advanced on-device AI operations.
Apple says the processor, combined with a next-generation vapour chamber, delivers up to 40% faster graphics performance than the iPhone 17 Pro. The phones will also offer Siri AI and an expanded set of Apple Intelligence features. (Apple)
Photography is another major focus. The iPhone 18 Pro models feature three 48MP rear cameras, including a Fusion Main camera with variable aperture. The system promises improved low-light photography, greater depth control and up to 8x optical-quality zoom. An 18MP Center Stage camera handles selfies and video calls.
Apple claims that the iPhone 18 Pro Max can provide up to 45 hours of video playback. Compatible fast charging can replenish up to 50% of the battery in approximately 15 minutes.
Available in 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch sizes, the lineup comes in Burgundy, Glacier, Silver and Black. Indian prices start at ₹1,64,900. Pre-orders will open at 5:30 p.m. IST on September 12, followed by availability from September 18.
iPhone Duo Marks Apple’s Entry Into Foldable Market
The biggest announcement is the iPhone Duo, Apple’s first foldable smartphone. It features a 7.6-inch folding Super Retina XDR inner display and a 5.4-inch outer screen.
Apple says the unfolded display is 50% larger than that of the iPhone 18 Pro Max. The phone supports multiple positions, including closed, landscape, portrait, seated and standing modes. Split View allows users to operate two applications side by side.
The foldable device uses a Grade 5 titanium frame and hinge cover, Ceramic Shield protection and a scratch-resistant coating for the inner display. It also carries an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating.
The A20 Pro-powered device includes a dual-battery system and vapour-chamber cooling. Apple claims up to 44 hours of video playback on the outer display and 31 hours on the inner screen.
Its 48MP Dual Fusion camera system includes Main and Ultra Wide sensors. New functions such as Duo Preview let people see themselves on the outer display while being photographed.
The iPhone Duo will be offered in Night Sky and Star White, with prices beginning at ₹2,99,900 in India. Pre-orders start October 16, and sales begin October 23.
Apple Watch Series 12 Focuses on Health
The Apple Watch Series 12 introduces a redesigned Health Sensing System with upgraded optical and electrical sensors. Apple says the system supports higher-frequency heart monitoring and provides more detailed heart-rate variability, fitness and recovery information.
The smartwatch offers up to 24 hours of regular use. A 15-minute fast charge can provide up to 12 additional hours of battery life. Aluminium variants also receive tougher Ceramic Shield 2 protection.
Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, the Series 12 comes with aluminium, titanium and ceramic case options. Indian pricing starts at ₹56,900.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Targets Endurance Athletes
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is designed for runners, divers and endurance athletes. It features a 49mm titanium case, precision dual-frequency GPS, satellite connectivity and water resistance up to 100 metres.
Apple claims up to 50 hours of normal use, 84 hours in Low Power Mode and 45 hours of Max Extended Workout tracking. Its new readiness score uses health and recovery data to help users decide whether to train or rest.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 starts at ₹1,09,900 in India. Both new Apple Watch models are available for pre-order and will reach stores on September 18.
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