Apple is holding its big annual September event on Tuesday, but don't expect it to be about the iPhone.
In a major departure from years past, Apple is expected to announce two upgraded Apple Watches, a refreshed iPad Air, and new digital services at its September event — but no iPhone.
The company is instead expected to unveil its iPhone 12 lineup in October, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Apple said during its most recent earnings call that it expected the next iPhone to be delayed because of disruptions from the coronavirus pandemic.
Apple's services and wearables divisions have been bright spots for the company as iPhone sales have slowed, opening up revenue streams for existing iPhone users rather than relying on upgrades.
The idea that the Apple Watch is expected to be the headlining announcement at Apple's September event also says a lot about its popularity and importance to Apple.
The Apple Watch was the most-shipped smartwatch of the first quarter of 2020, according to market research firm Canalys, putting it ahead of rivals Huawei, Samsung, Garmin, and Fitbit. Launching two new Apple Watches at different price points could help it maintain that lead.
Apple's September event, which will be taking place virtually for the first time this year because of COVID-19, starts at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET. You can view the event on the company's YouTube channel and follow our live updates below.
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