Apple is allegedly planning a major change in its iPhone launch strategy, and if recently leaked is accurate, the 2026 regular iPhone 18 can not see the release of the 18 model. This will be a notable change in Apple’s general approach, where the company usually announces all mainline models – including Base, Pro and Max variants – simultaneously in its annual launch event. But he can change a long -running pattern. There are 7 major things to know here.

The possibility of iPhone 18 is not coming next year: 7 things to learn things

Standard iPhone 18 May Skip 2026

According to a report by the known industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and information, Apple will leave the launch of the base iPhone 18 model in 2026. Instead, the company is expected to introduce only premium versions of the iPhone 18 lineup, namely, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and possibly a new Slim (or air) model. Regular iPhone 18, which usually serves as the entry point for the latest generation of Apple, cannot accompany them.

Base iPhone launched on 18 and 18 May 2027

Leak claims that the standard iPhone 18 launch and a more affordable iPhone 18E model has been pushed in early 2027. If true, it means that users who usually wait for non-ex-versions can see a delay of up to six months compared to the normal September timeline. Therefore, instead of hosting a single annual iPhone event, Apple is asked to plan two separate iPhone launch events.

Android is likely to compete with flagship

A reason behind this new strategy can be competition. Android brands such as Samsung, OnePlus, Vivo and Iku launch their major phones between December and January. By transferring the timeline of your base model in the first half of the year, Apple can aim to challenge that speed and stay in the headlines for a long time.

Foldable iPhone is expected at the end of 2026

Apple is also rumored to work on its first foldable iPhone, which may come at the end of the 2026 with the iPhone 18 Pro series. The inclusion of a foldable in this phase further enhances the idea that this launch event will be fully focused on premium devices.

More space for pro model

By separating the premium and affordable model, Apple can try to give its major equipment more breathing rooms. Instead of sharing attention with low-priced models, Pro and foldable iPhones can enjoy a dedicated step, which can keep in mind the top-of-the-line offerings of Apple.

Now the wait can affect the buyer’s spirit

Although this change can benefit Apple from the point of view of business and marketing, not all consumers can be happy. Many people prefer base iPhones for their value-to-demonstration balance. If they have to wait longer, some can search for some Android options, especially if those devices provide equal display or better value around the same time.