Apple to Launch Premium iPhones in Late 2026, Delay Base Model

Apple plans to deviate from its traditional annual iPhone launch schedule by prioritizing premium models in late 2026 while delaying the standard version until early 2027, according to multiple reports citing company sources and suppliers.

The shift involves releasing the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the company's first foldable iPhone, dubbed the iPhone Fold, in the second half of 2026. The base iPhone 18 will follow in the first half of 2027. This staggered approach marks a departure from Apple's longstanding practice of unveiling its full lineup, including both high-end and entry-level models, in the fall. A second-generation iPhone Air remains in development, though its launch timeline is unclear and not expected before next year.

Reports from Nikkei Asia, drawing on four sources familiar with Apple's plans, indicate the company is focusing resources on these three premium devices to address supply chain pressures and rising costs for memory chips and materials. Apple has at least five new iPhone models in the pipeline, but production constraints are prompting the prioritization of higher-margin products. An executive at an iPhone supplier told Nikkei Asia,...