Apple is reportedly planning a significant shift in its iPhone release schedule, with the standard iPhone 18 model now expected to arrive in early 2027, rather than during its usual fall 2026 launch cycle. If true, this would be the first time in over a decade that Apple does not release a new base iPhone in its traditional annual cadence.
According to multiple reports, Apple may still introduce other devices at its September 2026 event, such as the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, alongside potentially its first foldable iPhone. However, the standard non‑Pro iPhone 18 — typically the flagship that sells in the highest volumes — is expected to be pushed back to spring 2027.
The delay is thought to be part of a new strategy to stagger iPhone launches and give premium models more spotlight, while managing production resources and marketing efforts across more than one launch season. Analysts say this could leave the iPhone 17 series as Apple’s main base model for a longer period, possibly for over 18 months, before the iPhone 18 becomes available.
Industry observers note that while Pro and foldable models remain on track for 2026, this shift marks a major change in Apple’s release strategy — moving away from a once‑a‑year mass launch towards a more split release schedule. Fans and consumers hoping for the newest base iPhone later this year may now have to wait several additional months before the device hits shelves in early 2027.
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