Apple is reportedly planning to significantly alter its traditional iPhone launch schedule beginning with its upcoming iPhone 18 series, set to debut in 2026. According to insiders within Apple’s supply chain, the company intends to launch the high-end iPhone 18 Pro models in the fall of 2026, while delaying the release of the lower-priced standard iPhone 18 models, along with an updated version of the iPhone 16e, until the spring of 2027.
The report also anticipates the introduction of a new foldable iPhone around the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro models in the fall of 2026. Additionally, Apple is said to be developing a slimmer smartphone variant rumored to carry the name “iPhone 17 Air,” expected to be released within this current year. This slimline version is reportedly scheduled to receive a successor in 2026 as well.
In light of ongoing global tensions and trade policies—particularly tariffs implemented by the Trump administration that have noticeably affected Apple’s profit margins—the tech giant is exploring the feasibility of shifting manufacturing for the more affordable iPhone 18 models to India. This strategic move aims to decrease Apple’s dependency on China-based production and mitigate the impact of tariffs on manufacturing costs.
