Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: September 18, 2026, 2:01 PM ET

iPhone 18 Pro Launch

Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launched today in markets worldwide, with early reviews flagging camera zoom and display upgrades as the standout features to try first. Evercore responded by raising its AAPL target to $380, citing stronger-than-expected upgrade demand for the new flagship lineup.

Retail Experience

Apple Stores worldwide have quietly installed a new camera easter egg tied to the iPhone 18 Pro's zoom capabilities. The company has hidden tiny "hello" signs throughout its retail locations for customers to discover, a playful nod to its original 1984 Macintosh greeting. Apple Insider detailed how the hidden signs work as part of the in-store demo experience.

Fifth Avenue

The iconic glass cube at Apple's Fifth Avenue flagship changed colors to burgundy for the release, a visual marker of the launch. The celebration was shadowed by child safety protesters who gathered outside the store, targeting CEO John Ternus and demanding stronger protections on Apple platforms.

iPhone Duo Preview

Ahead of the iPhone Duo's October arrival, hands-on videos have surfaced showing the device's split keyboard and app multitasking behavior in action. The footage offers the clearest look yet at how Apple intends the foldable form factor to handle productivity workflows.

iOS 27

Apple released iOS 27 to all users, and reviewers are highlighting the best non-AI features as the update's most practical additions. The Apple Insider Podcast also weighed in on the full launch slate, covering the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch, iPhone Duo, and iOS 27 in one episode.

Design Tool

Developer Neal Agarwal launched an interactive "Design the Next iPhone" fan site, letting users mock up their own concept hardware. The tool has quickly circulated among Apple enthusiasts as the launch cycle drives fresh interest in the company's roadmap.