No iPhone 18 this year as Apple plans new launch strategy, supplier hints

Apple may be preparing a major change to its iPhone release strategy, with reports suggesting the standard iPhone 18 could arrive in early 2027 instead of launching alongside the Pro models. Fresh comments from a key supplier have added weight to the speculation.

In Short

• Standard iPhone 18 may be delayed until spring 2027
• Supplier comments align with reports of a split launch strategy
• Foldable iPhone and iPhone 18 Pro models could debut first in 2026

Apple could be preparing one of the biggest changes to its iPhone release schedule in more than a decade. If recent reports and supply chain hints are accurate, buyers waiting for the standard iPhone 18 may have to wait until 2027 instead of seeing the device launch alongside the Pro models in late 2026. The latest indication comes from Largan Precision, a company best known for supplying camera lenses used in iPhones. During a recent shareholders' meeting, chairman Lin En-ping revealed that a major American customer had moved the launch of a new product to the first quarter of 2027. While he did not name either the customer or the product, the timing has attracted attention because it matches ongoing reports about Apple's future iPhone plans.

For years, Apple has introduced its entire flagship iPhone family at the same event, usually held in September. However, the rumour mill suggests the company is now considering a different approach as its smartphone portfolio continues to grow.

Under the plan, Mac Rumors reported that Apple would reserve the autumn launch window for its premium devices. This means the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could arrive in the second half of 2026 alongside Apple's first foldable iPhone. The regular iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e and a possible successor to the iPhone Air would then be introduced several months later in spring 2027.

If Apple follows this roadmap, it would be a notable departure from a launch pattern that has remained largely unchanged since the early 2010s. It would also mean that customers looking for Apple's more affordable flagship models would no longer receive new devices at the same time as Pro buyers.

It is being reported that the move could help Apple spread demand across the year rather than concentrating it around a single launch event. It may also simplify production planning as the company expands its lineup to include a foldable model.

The foldable iPhone is expected to be the centrepiece of Apple's 2026 launch. Rumours suggest the device will feature a book-style folding design with a smaller outer display and a larger inner screen. It is also being said that the flexible device could carry a price tag of around $2,000, making it one of Apple's most expensive consumer products.

What to expect from iPhone 18

As for the standard iPhone 18, leaks indicate that major design changes are unlikely. The device is expected to retain a similar overall look while receiving upgrades to internal hardware. Rumoured improvements include Apple's next-generation A20 processor, which could be built using a 2-nanometre manufacturing process aimed at improving both performance and power efficiency.

Other reported upgrades include up to 12GB of RAM, a higher-resolution front camera and a brighter display. Some leaks have also suggested that Apple may bring a smaller Dynamic Island design to the entire iPhone 18 family instead of limiting it to the Pro models.

At the same time, leaks claim Apple is exploring ways to keep manufacturing costs under control. This could result in certain component changes designed to prevent major price increases, though details remain unclear.

Apple has not publicly commented on any of these reports. But, you can stay tuned to India Today Tech for all the updates if you are waiting for the next-generation iPhones.

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