Key Takeaways
1. Apple will stagger the launches of the iPhone 18 series in 2026 and 2027, moving away from its usual September release schedule.
2. The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, Air, and the first foldable iPhone are set to launch in fall 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 and affordable iPhone 18e will debut in spring 2027.
3. This new release strategy aims to reduce production pressure and improve manufacturing processes, particularly as Apple increases production in India to reduce reliance on China.
4. The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a book-like design, a 5.5-inch outer display, a 7.8-inch inner screen, and a liquid metal hinge for durability, with a potential price tag of around $2,000.
5. Upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models may feature under-display Face ID technology, and the foldable iPhone could include enhanced AI functionalities and a dual-camera system.
Apple is set to reveal its iPhone 17 series this September, but interest is already shifting towards the upcoming lineup for 2026. A notable change is on the horizon for Apple’s iPhone release schedule, as reported by The Information. The outlet claims that Apple intends to stagger the launches of the iPhone 18 series in 2026 and 2027, departing from its usual practice of unveiling everything in September at once.
New Release Timeline for iPhone 18 Series
The report indicates that during the typical fall event in 2026, Apple will roll out the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, a sleek iPhone 18 Air, and its inaugural foldable iPhone. The standard iPhone 18 and an affordable iPhone 18e, which will follow as the successor to the iPhone 16e, are expected to be launched in spring 2027.
This change is meant to alleviate production pressure, especially as Apple boosts manufacturing efforts in India to lessen dependence on China due to trade issues. The staggered release schedule may also help simplify factory processes, requiring fewer workers during each launch period. The iPhone 18 Pro models are likely to incorporate under-display Face ID technology, replacing the Dynamic Island feature with a single front camera cutout, while the Air model is set to focus on a thinner profile.
Anticipated Features of the Foldable iPhone
Apple’s foldable iPhone, expected to debut in 2026, is said to sport a book-like design with a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner screen, enhancing multitasking capabilities. To address durability issues, Apple is reportedly using a liquid metal hinge to reduce creasing. When opened, the device might measure about 4.5mm and could forgo Face ID in favor of a Touch ID power button sensor. It may also come with a titanium chassis and a dual-camera system. Priced around $2,000, this could be Apple’s most expensive iPhone to date. Enhanced AI functionalities and software improvements are anticipated to make it a premium, AI-focused device, paving the way for potential future foldable iPads or MacBooks.
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