iPhone 18: Apple seems to be changing its game plan for the iPhone 18 series. While fans eagerly await the iPhone 17 lineup this year, new leaks have already revealed the company’s evolving strategy for 2026. Instead of a single global launch window, Apple may split the release schedule for different models. A foldable iPhone and redesigned handsets could also be part of this future upgrade cycle.
iPhone 18 Lineup Release
As per a report by The Information, Apple is set to introduce the iPhone 18 series in a phased manner. Unlike its past practice of launching all the models at one event, the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Air are set to hit the markets in fall 2026. The rest of the models in the series, like the base iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, might make their debut in spring 2027, possibly in March or April.
This shift might enable Apple to optimize its resources and ease pressure on production schedules. It could also enhance sales momentum by keeping the lineup fresh over a longer period.
iPhone 18 Price Significant Cost Increase
The new iPhone 18 series may witness a price hike. One of the reasons for this anticipated hike is the production shift to India. Apple is set to initiate production trials for the entry-level iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e models in India, in line with its efforts to decrease dependence on China. The production is reported to have increased costs, which could be seen in the prices of these phones.
Foldable iPhone and New Design Shifts
The primary motivation for the phased release may be Apple’s plan to introduce its very first foldable iPhone. The device will purportedly be released along with the Pro and Air variants in 2026. The new approach may also help the company optimize manpower allocation by minimizing the demand for a humongous workforce at one time.
Moreover, all iPhone 18 series phones are anticipated to have 12GB of RAM. Apple can also provide the lineup with high-end 2nm chipsets by TSMC. For Pro and Pro Max variants, leaks indicate a transition from Dynamic Island to a punch-hole camera cutout, suggesting an even more immersive all-screen display.
iPhone 18 Production Moves to India
Apple has started reported trial production for certain iPhone 18 models at its new Tata plant in India, and the same is likely to follow for Foxconn. This move is a significant step in Apple’s drive for local manufacturing, as it tries to diversify its supply chain and lower dependence on Chinese production facilities.