In a bold shift from its usual launch strategy, Apple is reportedly planning to stagger the release of its upcoming Apple iPhone 18 lineup. Instead of unveiling all models simultaneously, the tech giant may debut only the premium variants — the Apple iPhone 18 Pro, Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new ultra-thin model – Apple iPhone 18 Slim or Apple iPhone 18 Air — by late 2026. The standard iPhone 18 and a budget-friendly Apple iPhone 18e are expected to follow in early 2027. So, read ahead to know the launch date of Apple iPhone 18 series.
Apple iPhone 18 Series Launch Date
If the leaks prove true, Apple may be gearing up for two major iPhone launches within just six months. It will unveil its premium models in late 2026, followed by a separate event in early 2027 focused on the more affordable iPhone variants.
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Here is a closer look at the launch date timeline of Apple iPhone 18 series:
- Second Half of 2025: The company may launch the iPhone 17 lineup, including the standard Apple iPhone 17, Apple iPhone 17 Pro, Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max, and a new Apple iPhone 17 Slim (possibly branded as “Air”).
- First Half of 2026: A more affordable Apple iPhone 17e is set to follow.
- Second Half of 2026: Apple may launch its first-ever foldable iPhone alongside the Apple iPhone 18 Pro, Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max, and another Slim variant.
- First Half of 2027: The base iPhone 18 and budget iPhone 18e could arrive, rounding out the series.
- Second Half of 2027: Apple will launch a second-generation foldable, the iPhone 19 Pro lineup, and an updated iPhone 19 Slim model featuring a larger display.
Apple’s Strategy Behind This Move
Apple’s unorthodox shift in its Apple iPhone 18 launch date may be a calculated move to challenge Android giants. These giants typically dominate the spotlight in the first quarter. By spreading its iPhone launches across both halves of the year, Apple could be strategically positioning itself to disrupt the marketing waves of competitors like Samsung, OnePlus, and Vivo. All these brands frquently unveil their flagship models between December and January.
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