iPhone 18 models to be launched in 2 parts: next month and next year

Apple Inc. is reportedly changing its traditional pattern of launching its latest iPhone 18 model lineup, deciding this time to divide the product release into two phases. Accordingly, the standard (Base) iPhone 18 model will not be available in September 2026; instead, only the high-tech Pro models and the company's first foldable mobile phone are scheduled to be unveiled.

Analysts indicate that the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Fold) will be officially unveiled at a special event held in the second week of September, specifically on September 8 or 9, 2026. According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, pre-orders for these devices will begin on September 11 and they will be released to the market by September 18 or 25.

On the other hand, the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 models are planned to be introduced to the market in the first quarter of 2027, specifically by March. Reports from Apple's manufacturing partners such as Pegatron and Largan Precision, and statements from analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo, confirm this dual-release schedule.

Apple has made this decision as a remedy for the global shortage of semiconductors and memory chips, and to focus attention on the more profitable Pro models during the festive season. This new iPhone generation, consisting of six models in total, paves the way for a new marketing strategy where flagship models are introduced in the autumn and reasonably priced models in the spring.

The new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models feature a powerful A20 Pro chipset manufactured with TSMC's 2-nanometer (2nm) technology and 12GB of RAM. These models, with 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED displays, have a smaller Dynamic Island section, and notably, their 48-megapixel triple-lens camera system includes a variable aperture ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0. Available in colors such as Dark Cherry, Light Blue, Dark Gray, and Silver, their starting price is estimated to exceed $1,299.

Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Ultra, features a book-like design that unfolds, with an outer screen of 5.3-5.5 inches and an inner main screen of approximately 7.6-7.8 inches. When unfolded, it boasts an extremely thin profile of 4.5 mm and utilizes a liquid metal hinge technology. It includes an A20 Pro chip, a 48-megapixel main camera, and a powerful 5,400–5,800 mAh battery. It will be released at a high price of $1,999 or more.

There are indications that the standard iPhone 18 model, arriving in early 2027, may include an A20 chip and 9GB of RAM. However, all this information is based on supply chain reports and analyst speculations, and Apple has not yet made an official statement.