Apple event October 2020: What time the iPhone 12 launch starts on 13 October, and how to watch in the UK

Apple generally unveils its new series of iPhones in September – but the launch, like so many things, has been delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite some speculation in the build-up, there was no mention of the next generation of handsets at an event last month, which instead focused on a new raft of Apple Watches, iPads and services.

Instead, the delayed new iPhone range is expected to be unveiled at an event on 13 October which, like September’s showcase, will be online-only – here’s how to watch it, and what you can expect.

What time is the Apple event on 13 October?

The Apple event starts on Tuesday 13 October at 10am Pacific Time – which translates to 6pm in the UK’s British Summer Time.

You’ll be able to tune in online from the UK or anywhere else in the world via the live stream on Apple’s official event page, which gives you the option to add the launch to your calendar so you don’t miss out.

What can you expect from the Apple event launch?

The virtual invitations Apple sent to members of the press contained the strapline “Hi, Speed”, hinting heavily at widely-circulated rumours this year’s handsets will be the first iPhones to support 5G connectivity, which is significantly faster than its 4G predecessor.

Alongside support for the new technology, four prospective models are reported to sport a refreshed design and variety of screen sizes: two basic and two more expensive Pro devices.

The two smaller handsets are expected to measure 5.4-inches and 6.1-inches respectively, while the two Pro smartphones are set to come in 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch sizes. The latter would be the largest iPhone to date.

The squared edges of the most recent iPad Pro, released in March, are likely to be replicated in the design of all four models, although the two higher-end devices are likely to still consist of stainless steel, while the cheaper two will be made from aluminium, people familiar with the matter say.

Another iPad Pro feature likely to appear in the new Pro iPhones is the LiDAR (light detection and ranging) camera system, designed to create sophisticated augmented reality (AR) experiences, alongside an upgraded A14 processor to make the devices faster and more power efficient.

While last year’s iPhone Pro models were available in midnight green, this year’s shade is reported to be a dark blue. This would tally with the new navy blue shade the Apple Watch Series 6 was announced in.

A new smaller HomePod smart speaker, Apple’s first pair of over-ear headphones outside of the Beats product line and new Bluetooth-tracking devices AirTags are also rumoured to be confirmed during the event.