iPhone 18 is likely not coming next year: 7 things to know

Apple is reportedly planning a major shift in its iPhone launch strategy, and if recent leaks are accurate, 2026 may not see the release of the regular iPhone 18 model. This would be a notable change in Apple's usual approach, where the company typically announces all mainline models — including the base, Pro, and Max variants — together at its annual launch event. But that long-standing pattern could change. Here are 7 key things to know.advertisementiPhone 18 is likely not coming next year: 7 things to knowStandard iPhone 18 may skip 2026According to known industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and a report by The Information, Apple will skip the launch of the base iPhone 18 model in 2026. Instead, the company is expected to introduce only the premium versions of the iPhone 18 lineup, namely, the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and possibly a new Slim (or Air) model. The regular iPhone 18, which usually serves as the entry point to Apple's latest generation, may not arrive alongside them.Base iPhone 18 and 18e may launch in 2027Leaks claim that the launch of the standard iPhone 18 and a more affordable iPhone 18e model have been pushed to early 2027. If true, this means users who typically wait for the non-Pro versions could be looking at a delay of up to six months compared to the usual September timeline. So, instead of hosting a single annual iPhone event, Apple is said to be planning two separate iPhone launch events. A move likely to compete with Android flagshipsadvertisement
One of the reasons behind this new strategy could be competition. Android brands like Samsung, OnePlus, Vivo, and iQOO tend to launch their flagship phones between December and January. By shifting the timeline of its base model launches to the first half of the year, Apple might be aiming to challenge that momentum and stay in the spotlight longer.Foldable iPhone expected in late 2026Apple is also rumoured to be working on its first foldable iPhone, which could arrive as part of the late 2026 event alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. The inclusion of a foldable in this phase further reinforces the idea that this launch event will be focused entirely on premium devices.More space for Pro modelsBy separating the premium and affordable models, Apple may be trying to give its flagship devices more breathing room. Rather than having them share attention with lower-priced models, the Pro and foldable iPhones could enjoy a dedicated stage, keeping Apple's top-of-the-line offerings in focus.Longer wait could impact buyer sentimentWhile this change might benefit Apple from a business and marketing point of view, not all consumers might be happy. Many people prefer the base iPhones for their price-to-performance balance. If they have to wait longer, some might end up exploring Android alternatives, especially if those devices offer similar performance or better value around the same time.

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