Technology

Apple reportedly plans to delay base iPhone 18 launch until spring 2027

Analyst expectations and industry reports suggest the company will prioritize premium models at its upcoming September event.

Updated Sep 5, 2026 · 11:19 UTC1 reports

The short version

Apple is expected to omit its standard base iPhone 18 model from its September 9 launch event, focusing instead on high-end offerings.[Wired]
The lineup is anticipated to feature the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and potentially the company's first foldable device.[Wired]
The cheaper base model, along with a possible iPhone 18e and second-generation iPhone Air, is rumored for release in spring 2027.[Wired]
The scheduling change would allow Apple to distribute product revenue more evenly across financial quarters.[Wired]

Apple scheduled an event titled 'Surprise and Shine!' for September 9 at 10 am Pacific.[Wired]
Former CEO Tim Cook acknowledged in June that Apple would raise product prices to keep pace with manufacturing costs.[Wired]
In July, Apple introduced an iPhone leasing program that enables customers to rent devices and exchange them when new versions launch.[Wired]
IDC analyst Nabila Popal projects Apple will release three premium models in the fall and defer mid-range devices to spring to balance quarterly revenue.[Wired]

Whether Apple will officially unveil a foldable device expected to cost around $2,000 remains unconfirmed.[Wired]
The release timing for the base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and second-generation iPhone Air in spring 2027 remains based on rumors.[Wired]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.