Apple sends out invitations for Sept. 9 event, new iPhone possible

The Apple logo is illuminated in the entrance to the Fifth Avenue Apple store, in New York, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013. (AP Mark Lennihan)

CUPERTINO, Calif. -- Apple will show off its newest products Sept. 9. The iPhone and iPad maker set the date in invitations mailed Thursday to reporters and others who typically come to see the unveiling of Apple's latest twists on technology.

These events have become an annual rite since the 2007 release of the iPhone. This year's gathering may be the most anticipated since Apple Inc. took the wraps off the iPad in 2010.

True to its secretive nature, Apple isn't giving any clues about what's on the Sept. 9 agenda.

The Cupertino, California, company is widely expected to release an iPhone with a larger screen than the 4-inch display on the previous two generations of the device. Apple's first smartwatch also is a possibility.