The iPhone 18 line-up is on the way, but a change in strategy could see some buyers waiting significantly longer than usual. For more than a decade, Apple has typically launched every model in a new iPhone range at the same time. With the iPhone 18, that approach is rumoured to change.
According to reports, Apple may stagger the launch, splitting its newest handsets across two windows. The more premium iPhone 18 Pro and the much-anticipated foldable, rumoured to be called the iPhone Ultra, are expected to debut in September, while a handful of other devices could arrive in spring the following year.
The new models are said to ship with smaller Dynamic Islands, and the cameras may feature a variable aperture, a notable draw for photography enthusiasts. Pinning down exact release dates for the full family, however, is trickier this year than usual.
iPhone 18 Event and September Models
Apple is set to unveil its latest iPhone line-up on 9 September during a special event at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Pre-orders typically go live the Friday after the event, with units reaching stores the following Friday. The reveal will be viewable via Apple’s website, YouTube, Apple TV and the Apple developer app.
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are likely to ship in September, in keeping with the standard release window for iPhones since the fifth generation. Launching its top-tier devices ahead of the holiday season is a formula Apple is not expected to abandon.
Apple’s first foldable phone may go up for pre-order alongside the Pro models but could ship at a later date, potentially due to supply chain constraints around the hinge and displays. Historically, aside from the iPhone Air, when Apple adds a new model to the line, it tends to arrive a month after the others, as seen with the iPhone 12 Mini and iPhone 14 Plus.
Why the Standard iPhone 18 May Be Delayed
The standard iPhone 18 and the iPhone Air 2 are the models rumoured to face a significant delay. The shift may reflect a strategic move towards a biannual cadence for Apple, with autumn and spring launch dates. That would echo how Samsung releases its flagship Galaxy line early in the year and its foldables mid-year.
David Naranjo, associate director of Counterpoint Research, said Apple will likely reveal its first foldable iPhone on 9 September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series, with base iPhone 18 announcements expected to be pushed into spring 2027. He described the staggered launch as a notable change in Apple’s release cadence, with a strong emphasis on premiumisation.
Whether the potential delay relates to manufacturing restrictions, RAM shortages or a decision to prioritise the highest-end hardware first remains unclear. If the rumours hold, buyers seeking an entry-level iPhone could be waiting until spring 2027 to place an order.
