Apple Store crashes hours before iPhone launch — cryptic message sparks wild speculation

Just hours before Apple’s big event, the Apple Store went down worldwide, showing only a mysterious message, “Be right back”. Under the main line, Apple added another note, “We’re making updates to the Apple Store. Check back soon”.

The store’s usual white and grey look was swapped for an all-black background with an infrared Apple logo, sparking even more speculation. Apple also placed a link to watch its live event at Cupertino headquarters, starting 6pm BST (10am PT).

iPhone 17 launch rumors

Although Apple did not say what the event is about, fans pointed out that the Apple Store has often gone offline before major launches in past years. With strong rumours about the iPhone 17, fans now believe tonight’s event will finally reveal the new devices, as stated by The Sun.


Apple is widely expected to launch the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the new iPhone 17 Air. The iPhone 17 Air will reportedly be super thin at just 5.5mm, making it the lightest version yet. All new models are expected to feature better rear cameras, an upgraded selfie camera, and an improved display. The standard iPhone 17 could be slightly larger than its predecessor at 6.3 inches instead of 6.1 inches.

ALSO READ: Last minute iPhone 17 secrets leaked - 5 must-know rumors ahead of Apple’s 2025 mega event

Apple TV new show deal

The Pro and Pro Max models may get a rectangular camera bar stretching across the back. Design changes could include a titanium frame instead of aluminium and a glass panel to support wireless charging. Away from hardware, Apple TV has signed James Corden and Ruth Jones in a new £8 million deal, following their Gavin & Stacey finale success, as reported by The Sun.

A show insider said, “In what has unquestionably been a pretty miserable year for Brits, there is finally something to cheer — a new James and Ruth co-production. “As you might expect, it is uplifting, gentle and very funny. “They wanted to bring something full of heart and warmth back to screens; water cooler moments for all the family”, stated in the report by The Sun.

Their new show is described as uplifting, gentle, and very funny, aiming to bring “heart and warmth” to screens. The project sparked a major bidding war, but Apple TV+ won because of Corden’s past ties with Carpool Karaoke.

Netflix had tried to get them for the Gavin & Stacey finale, but they stayed loyal to the BBC back then. This time, the duo plans a fresh format with new characters to reach an international audience. Filming is set to begin next year, with casting still underway, but excitement is already high among those involved, as per the report by The Sun.

FAQs

Q1. Why did the Apple Store go down before the iPhone launch?
The Apple Store often goes offline before big events, and this time fans think it hints at the iPhone 17 launch.

Q2. What new products are expected at the Apple event?
Apple is expected to reveal the iPhone 17 lineup, including iPhone 17 Air, along with possible new features and designs.