Apple Inc. is preparing to introduce bigger-screen iPhones at an event on Sept. 9, a person familiar with the plans said.

The Cupertino, California-based company is set to introduce two new models: one with a 4.7-inch screen, and another with a 5.5-inch screen, people with knowledge of the plans have said. 

Anticipation for bigger-screen iPhones has analysts predicting that Apple will sell a record number of handsets and investors have responded by sending the stock up 18 percent this year. Samsung Electronics Co. and other smartphone vendors have used larger screen sizes to gain market share, particularly in Asian markets where bigger phones are more popular. 

Apple’s planned event on the second Tuesday in September is in keeping with a strategy of releasing new iPhone models in that month, kicking off a broader reboot of its product lineup in time for the holiday shopping season. Last year’s iPhone 5S and 5C also debuted on the second Tuesday of September.

Recode first reported the timing of the iPhone introduction. Analysts also are predicting Apple will also release new iPads and a wearable device this year. (Bloomberg)