Apple iPhone 18 Pro Launch Draws Crowds as New CEO Ternus Hits the Ground Running

Apple's new iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, went on sale worldwide on Friday. The devices feature a redesigned camera system with a DSLR-like variable aperture, which improves performance in low-light environments and allows for enhanced depth-of-field control.

The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299. Both models are also available through Apple's lease-based Upgrade program for customers who prefer to spread the cost over monthly payments.

Apple introduced a new authentication feature aimed at addressing growing concerns about AI-manipulated images. The company said the new iPhone 18 lineup can detect AI-generated photos by automatically creating an unalterable Reference Image that remains attached to any edited version of a photo.

New CEO John Ternus marked the launch by visiting Apple's flagship retail store on Fifth Avenue in New York City, where he posed for photos and signed autographs for customers. The visit came just over a week after Ternus presided over his first product launch event as CEO.