Apple could modify one of its most traditional release calendars. Various reports from the supply chain and analysis from specialists indicate that the company would not present the entire new generation of iPhone in September 2026, but would reserve the event for its higher-end devices.
Specifically, the protagonists would be the iPhone 18 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro Max and, if the forecasts are finally met, the first foldable iPhone from the company. The standard model would be left out of the presentation and would not reach stores until the first half of 2027.
This would not be a manufacturing problem nor a delay related to the development of the basic phone. According to this information, Apple would be studying a reorganization of its strategy to spread the launches throughout the year.
Two windows to present the new iPhones
For years, Apple has used the September event as a great showcase to renew practically its entire range of phones. However, the iPhone family has been expanding with new variants and categories, which could lead the company to abandon that model of joint presentation.
The current offer includes the Pro models, the more economical versions of the "e" range, the recent iPhone Air and, presumably, a foldable device that would represent Apple's entry into a new segment.
The strategy that is taking shape would divide the renewal of the range into two stages. September would be reserved for the premium models, while the conventional iPhone 18 and the future iPhone 18e would be presented during the first half of 2027.
The more expensive models would gain prominence
The modification would also have a commercial reading. The Pro models concentrate a particularly important part of the revenue generated by iPhone sales, so presenting them without the direct competition of the standard version would allow Apple to focus all attention on its higher-priced devices.
The possible launch of the first foldable iPhone would further reinforce this strategy. It would be one of the most important innovations from the company in years and, presumably, a product with more limited manufacturing and a high price.
Separating it from the rest of the range would allow Apple to dedicate more space to it during its presentation and avoid it being overshadowed by the simultaneous announcement of several models.
Basic model users will have to wait
The change would particularly affect those who usually opt for the conventional version of the phone. If the forecasts are fulfilled, the basic iPhone 18 would not be available in September 2026, as has traditionally happened with the new models of the company.
Consumers who want to debut an iPhone in the fall would have to choose between the Pro models and, presumably, the new foldable device. Both would be positioned in price segments higher than the standard model.
In exchange, a greater separation between launches would allow Apple to establish clearer differences between its devices in aspects such as features, performance, and price. The company would thus have more room to build a tiered offering throughout the year.
A change that is not yet confirmed
For the moment, Apple has not officially announced any change in its launch schedule. The forecasts come from information from analysts, suppliers, and sources linked to the company's production chain.
If confirmed, it would represent a significant change in the strategy followed by Apple for years. The September event would stop concentrating all the renewal of the iPhone family and would be mainly focused on the more advanced devices, while the standard model would be left for a second phase in 2027.