Apple is reportedly considering a change to its long-standing iPhone launch cycle, with the standard Apple iPhone 18 unlikely to arrive in 2026. If the latest report proves accurate, Apple would release the base iPhone 18 in 2027, breaking from its usual annual refresh for the mainstream model.

Such a move would leave the iPhone 17 on sale for longer than usual. Historically, Apple replaces its regular iPhone roughly every 12 months. One of the few exceptions was the transition from the iPhone 4 to the iPhone 4s, which spanned about 15 months. Under the reported plan, the iPhone 17 could remain Apple’s primary phone for close to 18 months.

Pro models still expected in 2026

While the standard model may be delayed, the report claims Apple will stick to its normal fall schedule for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, launching them in late 2026. This would mean the premium models debut without a base version, countering earlier rumours that suggested a spring 2026 launch for the regular iPhone 18.

For more than a decade, Apple has unveiled its main iPhone range together in September. Even when the iPhone 12 launch slipped to October in 2020 due to pandemic disruptions, the lineup still arrived within the same release window. That approach may now be shifting, with Apple said to be prioritising higher-priced models first and spacing out launches for other variants.

If the new strategy goes ahead, Apple could introduce the standard iPhone 18 in spring 2027, potentially alongside an iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air. The company has already experimented with staggered launches, as seen with the iPhone 16e, which arrived months after the rest of the iPhone 16 series.

Why Apple might stagger launches

A split release schedule could help Apple manage an expanding product range, keeping more models on sale without them competing directly at launch. Manufacturing costs may also be a factor. Reports suggest Apple’s shift to a 2-nanometre chip could increase expenses, and delaying certain models might help balance those costs over time.

There is also talk of design tweaks, such as a reduced camera bump and changes to the display cut-out. However, Apple has not confirmed any of these details, and the information remains speculative for now.