Apple Store down ahead of 'iPhone 12' debut event

Hours before it is due to hold its "Hi, Speed" event, Apple has taken down its online Apple Store in preparation for the introduction of new products, such as the "iPhone 12" lineup.

A custom that precedes practically any important product launch for the company, Apple has blocked off its online store from customers at approximately 7am eastern time, preventing any new purchases from taking place. Instead, consumers are greeted by the customary "Be right back" screen, explaining there are updates being made to the Apple Store and to "check back soon."

The message's appearance usually takes place during maintenance periods before major announcements, such as product launches or refreshes. This also includes major product presentations, such as September's "Time Flies" event and Tuesday's "Hi, Speed" event.

Apple will commence the show from 10am pacific time (1pm eastern time), with a video stream featuring Apple executives showing off the new products. The main attraction is widely thought to be the 2020 iPhone range, under the generation name of the "iPhone 12."

Consisting of four devices, the group will be made up of the 6.1-inch "iPhone 12" itself, as well as the "iPhone 12 mini" using a 5.4-inch display. There will also be two Pro models, the 6.1-inch "iPhone 12 Pro" and the 6.7-inch "iPhone 12 Pro Max."

Key features for this generation include the use of the A14 system-on-chip, an updated physical design, 5G connectivity, and for some models, the rumored use of a LiDAR sensor on the back for depth-mapping the environment.

Other products that may make an appearance include a new mini HomePod, "AirTags," "AirPods Studio," and maybe even a Mac running Apple Silicon.