Apple Launches Employee Lottery for September Product Event

Apple Inc. is implementing a new lottery system for its retail employees across the United States to select staff for the Event Support Experience Program. This initiative marks a departure from previous product launch protocols and will determine which workers provide logistical support for a major event scheduled for the first half of September.

Selected employees will be responsible for greeting attendees, managing lines, checking in guests, and collaborating with security teams. The company has historically utilized retail staff for major launches, but the nationwide lottery for the 2026 cycle is a new development.

The upcoming event is rumored to feature the debut of several new devices, including the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new folding iPhone Ultra. Other expected announcements include the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4.