Technology
Apple rumored to split iPhone 18 launch timeline with staggered spring and fall releases
Reports suggest standard models may be delayed to 2027 while Pro versions and a foldable device debut in September.
The short version
- Apple is rumored to be splitting its traditional unified iPhone launch schedule, pushing the standard iPhone 18 to spring 2027 while releasing Pro models earlier.
- The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a rumored foldable iPhone Ultra are expected to be unveiled at a September 9 event at Apple Park.
- The baseline iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 may be delayed until spring 2027, potentially alongside a budget-oriented iPhone 18E in March.
- It remains unconfirmed whether potential delays stem from manufacturing limits, supply chain bottlenecks, component shortages, or strategic market positioning.
Key facts
- Apple has scheduled a product event at Apple Park for September 9 at 10 a.m. PT.[CNET · CNET]
- Counterpoint Research associate director David Naranjo stated that announcements for the base iPhone 18 models are expected to be postponed until spring 2027.[CNET]
- The premium iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable phone tentatively called the iPhone Ultra are reported by Bloomberg to be debuting in September.[CNET]
- The budget-focused iPhone 18E model is anticipated to release in early to mid-March 2027.[CNET]
- The base model iPhone 17 launched at $799, lower than standard entry models for the Samsung Galaxy S26 and Google Pixel 11.[CNET]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the launch delay for base models is caused by RAM shortages, manufacturing constraints, hinge and display supply issues, or a intentional push toward higher-tier models is unverified.[CNET]
- Unconfirmed rumors on Weibo indicate the standard iPhone 18 might share hardware specifications closer to the lower-cost 18E rather than the Pro series.[CNET]
- Potential price increases across the upcoming iPhone 18 generation remain unconfirmed speculation.[CNET]