iPhone 18 May Be Released in Two Phases, Regular Model Possibly Delayed by Seven Months

According to a new report, Apple plans to launch the iPhone 18 series in two phases, with the Pro models potentially hitting the market in September 2026. However, the regular iPhone 18 might face a delay until the first quarter of 2027, primarily due to pressures on memory chip and semiconductor supplies. The report also mentions that Apple’s September event could unveil its first foldable iPhone, internally dubbed the iPhone Ultra.
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Traditionally, Apple has launched new iPhones simultaneously, but indications suggest that this time the company might break from that pattern by releasing the iPhone 18 series in two stages. This means that while the higher-priced Pro models could become available this year, consumers wanting the standard iPhone 18 might have to wait until 2027. Apple has not yet made any official announcements regarding this.

The news about the phased launch comes from Pegatron officials, who noted that their smartphone shipment schedules are changing in response to customer demands. According to the report, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to be unveiled in September 2026, while the regular iPhone 18 may arrive between January and March 2027.

If Apple proceeds with this divided launch strategy, customers seeking the standard iPhone will have to wait beyond this year’s September event until early 2027. This could complicate purchase decisions for consumers, who previously saw both standard and Pro models released simultaneously. Now, with the regular model arriving several months later, customers will have to choose between opting for the more expensive Pro models or continuing to use their existing iPhones for a longer period.