Tim Cook Apple Billionth iPhone
Tim Cook holds the billionth iPhone at an employee meeting in Cupertino. images.apple.com

Ahead of Apple’s official announcement, various outlets reported on varying launch dates for the new generation of iPhones. But one of the highly-cited sources had claimed that the new iPhone models will be on retail sale starting Sep. 16 in the United States.

The Cupertino, California-based tech company is yet to announce when it will unveil the latest iPhone model. But ahead of Apple’s September event notice, Forbes magazine reported that the special event unveiling the new iPhones is expected on Sept. 7.

Forbes cited Evan Blass who claimed that the iPhone 6 successor will be released for retail on the week of Sep. 12. Blass, a tech reporter for venturebeat.com, had already predicted that pre-order of the iPhone 7 would start on Sep. 9.

The new iPhone is expected to be released in two sizes similar to its 2015 predecessor, the 4.7-inch and the 5.5-inch models. The 4.7-inch model is rumoured to have a larger camera than iPhone 6’s version while the 5.5-inch Plus model will use dual cameras for better photography features.

The iPhone 7 model is also rumoured to ditch the headphone jack to make way for dual speakers. With the latest model, users need new Bluetooth headphones or wired ones that can connect to the smartphone using the iPhone’s Lightning charging port.

A better iPhone model is expected in 2017 as the iOS smartphone marks its 10th launch anniversary. Apple reportedly sold its one billionth iPhone late last July.

Apple Music Festival London

While the world awaits Apple’s September event announcement, the tech company announced a 10-day music even in London featuring the various artists.

Elton John, Alicia Keys, Alicia Keys, Bastille, Britney Spears, Calvin Harris, Chance the Rapper, Michael Bublé, OneRepublic and Robbie Williams are set to perform on Apple Music Festival between Sep. 18 to Sep. 30.

“Apple Music lets fans get even closer to their favorite performers during the Apple Music Festival with exclusive playlists, artist news and backstage interviews throughout September,” Apple said in a statement.

According to Apple, fans around the world can follow the event with live or on-demand video coverage available on Apple Music, which has over 15 million paying subscribers across 100 countries.