Report: Apple Splitting iPhone 18 Launch Into Two Phases
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to split the iPhone 18 series launch into two phases. The iPhone 18 Pro models will debut in fall 2026, while the standard lineup will arrive in spring 2027. This marks a major shift in Apple’s release cycle, designed to reduce reliance on its fall keynote as a single blockbuster event.
Fall 2026: iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Foldable iPhone
Apple’s fall event in 2026 is expected to showcase:
- iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
- The long‑awaited iPhone Fold
- Possible updates to Apple Watch and Macs
This lineup positions the fall event as a premium showcase, highlighting Apple’s most advanced devices.
Spring 2027: Standard iPhone 18 and Budget Models
In spring 2027, Apple will reportedly unveil:
- The base model 18
- A potential iPhone 18e, successor to the iPhone 16e
- A possible iPhone Air successor
This staggered release gives Apple more flexibility, easing operational strain and spreading product launches across the year.
iPhone Air as a Testing Platform
Reports suggest the iPhone Air is being used as a low‑volume hardware testing platform for Apple’s foldable iPhone. The foldable device is expected to share a similar build with the Air, making the latter a proving ground for design and durability.
Earlier leaks indicate that the iPhone Air will not feature a second camera lens. Apple reportedly believes that an ultrawide sensor is not a priority for most users, focusing instead on core performance and design.
Apple’s two‑pronged iPhone 18 launch strategy could reshape its product cycle:
- Fall events: Reserved for high‑end, flagship devices
- Spring events: Focused on mainstream and budget models
By splitting launches, Apple avoids overloading a single keynote and ensures smoother production and marketing cycles. This may sound like a good idea on paper, but only time will tell if it’s a strategy that will pay off.
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