Apple has officially sent out invitations for its big September keynote, and that means one thing: the iPhone 17 is about to make its debut. For many of you waiting to upgrade, this is the most anticipated tech event of the year. Apple always makes a splash with its September announcements, and this year looks no different.
When will the iPhone 17 be announced?
The iPhone 17 will be unveiled at Apple’s keynote on Tuesday, September 9, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern, 6 p.m. in the U.K.). The event will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park in Cupertino, California.
Apple sent out invitations on Monday, August 26, confirming the schedule that many industry watchers had already predicted. If you are used to following Apple launches, you know the pattern: invitations arrive about two weeks before the event, and the keynote takes place on a Tuesday in early September.
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What iPhone 17 models can you expect?
Apple rarely introduces just one model anymore, and this year looks set to continue that trend. According to reports, the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to include:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone 17 Air (a slimmer, lighter design being rumored as an all-new addition)
The “Air” model is especially exciting because it would mark the first time Apple has introduced a thinner flagship phone in years.
When will iPhone 17 pre-orders start?
Pre-orders almost always follow the same routine. You can expect iPhone 17 pre-orders to open Friday, September 12, at 5 a.m. Pacific Time.
Apple usually allows customers to set up their shopping carts in advance so that when the pre-order window opens, the process goes smoothly. If you have your heart set on a particular model or color, it is smart to be ready right when orders go live.
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When will iOS 26 be released?
Alongside the new iPhone, Apple will roll out iOS 26, the software powering the iPhone 17. The general release date is expected to be Monday, September 15, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.
This update will not just be for the new iPhone. If you are using an iPhone 11 or later, you will be able to download iOS 26 as well. Do not be surprised if the servers feel slow at first — millions of people usually try to download the software at the same time.
When will iPhone 17 reviews be published?
For those who like to see hands-on impressions before buying, reviews will begin appearing Tuesday, September 16, at around 6 a.m. Pacific Time.
That is when journalists and tech experts will start publishing their full breakdowns of the iPhone 17 lineup. If Apple decides to push some reviews back by a day, then Wednesday, September 17, is the backup date.
Reviews of the new Apple Watches, which are also expected at the keynote, are likely to appear at the same time or shortly after.
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When will the iphone 17 be released in stores?
The big day to circle on your calendar is Friday, September 19, at 7 a.m. local time. That is when the iPhone 17 will officially go on sale.
Apple Store openings will be timed differently depending on where you live. In places like Australia and New Zealand, doors will open earlier because of the time difference. In the U.S., expect long lines outside Apple Stores early in the morning as usual.
What else will Apple announce at the keynote?
Apple’s September event is not just about the iPhone. This year, you can also expect:
- Apple Watch Series 11
- Apple Watch Ultra 3
- Possibly the third-generation Apple Watch SE
All of these products will likely share the same release schedule as the iPhone 17, with pre-orders opening September 12 and in-store availability on September 19.
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