Apple may delay the iPhone 18 launch to 2027, Pro models expected first: Report

Apple may delay the standard release of the iPhone 18 until 2027, while the Pro models could make their debut this autumn.

Apple may not release the standard iPhone 18 in 2026, according to a new report that points to a change in the company’s launch schedule. If the claim holds true, the regular iPhone 18 would reach buyers in 2027, instead of following the usual yearly cycle.

Apple may delay the iPhone 18 launch to 2027, Pro models expected first: Report. (AP)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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This shift would place the iPhone 17 in an unusual position. For most of Apple’s history, each regular iPhone has stayed on the market for about a year before its replacement arrived. The only close exception came with the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s, which launched 15 months apart. Under the reported plan, the iPhone 17 would remain Apple’s main standard model for around 18 months.

Pro Models Expected on Schedule

The report suggests that Apple will still introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the fall of 2026. However, the regular iPhone 18 would not launch alongside them. This contradicts an earlier rumour that hinted at a spring 2026 release for the base model.

For over a decade, Apple has announced its main iPhone lineup in September, with all core models arriving together. While the iPhone 12 went on sale in October 2020 due to pandemic-related delays, it still followed a single launch window. That approach may now change. Reports indicate Apple plans to focus on higher-priced models in the fall, while pushing standard or lower-cost versions to the following year.

If so, Apple could release the iPhone 18 in spring 2027, possibly alongside an iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air. Apple followed a similar pattern with the iPhone 16e, which arrived well after other iPhone 16 models.

Reasons Behind the Delay

This staggered strategy may help Apple manage a growing lineup. With more models staying on sale at the same time, spreading launches could reduce overlap and extend sales periods. Cost may also play a role. Reports claim Apple’s move to a 2-nanometer processor could raise production costs, and a delayed launch might allow those costs to ease.

Design changes are also still being discussed, including a smaller camera bump and adjustments to the display cut-out. However, Apple has not confirmed any of these details yet, so treat this information with caution.