India, Sept. 6 -- Apple's September 9 "Surprise and shine" event is official, but this may not be a regular iPhone launch. Reports point to three premium models-the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and Apple's first foldable phone-while the standard iPhone 18 could be left out entirely.

That is the real twist. Buyers waiting for the regular iPhone 18 may have to choose a discounted iPhone 17 or wait until 2027, if Apple proceeds with the reported split-launch strategy.

Apple has not confirmed any iPhone model. Here is what is official, what appears repeatedly in credible reports and what should still be treated cautiously before the keynote begins at 10:30 PM IST.

Apple's official announcement is limited to the event details.

Event da...