Apple is shaking up its predictable release cycle this year as the iPhone lineup is entering a major transition, and the iPhone 18 series is playing a key role in this shift. Instead of its old release schedule, which launched all iPhone models together in September, Apple will now release the iPhone 18 series in batches. According to multiple new reports, insider leaks, and Apple analyst Mark Gurman.
When will the iPhone 18 come out?
There’s a big question rolling out everywhere: when exactly will we get the iPhone 18 series? Surprisingly, the answer isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. Apple is now planning to split the release to compete better with Samsung and Google. This new strategy means the iPhone 18 models will be released in separate batches.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the expected iPhone 18 launch timeline, design, rumours, camera upgrades and everything we know so far.
Also read: Everything You Need to Know About Valve’s Upcoming Steam Machine, VR Headset & Controller
iPhone 18 series Release Timeline
IPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the new foldable iPhone are all expected to launch in September 2026, likely within the first 10 days of the month, following its usual fall release schedule for its top-end phones, according to telecom industry insiders. By keeping this fall timeline, Apple remains aligned with its regular product cycle and ensures its most advanced models launch during the peak sales season.
However, the entry-level iPhone models are expected to release in early 2027. These include Base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2. Apple This new timing reflects Apple’s plan to spread out releases to match competitors more effectively, especially Samsung’s Galaxy S series, which typically launches in February.
Will the launch be in February or March 2027?
Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch around February 2027, and Apple won’t want to miss that competitive window. Based on the previous iPhone “e” series and reports from supply chain insiders, Base iPhone 18 is most likely expected to release in early 2027, so there’s no better chance to compete directly with Samsung and stay relevant during one of the biggest smartphone launch periods. This timing makes strategic sense.
A Possibility of April 2027 Launch
As April usually releases its phones earlier in the year, April would be later than usual. But according to Mark Gurman, Apple may split its iPhone launches into two waves, six months apart, which would push the base iPhone release into April 2027, while the iPhone 18 Pro would come out in September 2026. Still, most experts believe that Apple will release the iPhone in February, as releasing earlier helps them compete better with Samsung and Google.
Why is Apple Changing the Release Schedule?
Apple’s new split release strategy is designed to compete directly with Samsung’s February launch, Maintain visibility in the smartphone market all year, Make production easier by spreading it out, and build excitement for premium and base models. These moves show Apple is adapting to a market because when a phone is launched is now as important as the phone itself.
IPhone 18 Design Rumors
After the complete design changes with the iPhone 17 lineup, the iPhone 18 models won’t look completely different, but they will include some nice refinements.
- There’s a rumour that the iPhone 18 pro may feature a transparent rear glass panel, letting you see some of the internal elements of the phone. This would be a bold and exciting new design feature.
- The display Sizes are expected to stay the same as the previous models, Like iPhone 18 / 18 Pro (6.3 inches), iPhone 18 Pro Max (6.9 inches), and iPhone Air 2 (6.5 inches). In short, the iPhone 18 will keep familiar sizes but add some cool design updates.
- New bold colours such as Brown, Burgundy, and Purple may be introduced, moving beyond the traditional options like black, grey and silver.
- According to some reports, Apple is experimenting with removing the Dynamic Island completely. This could mean the iPhone 18 might have just a single punch-hole camera or A much smaller Face ID area. If it is successful, the iPhone 18 could offer Apple’s cleanest and most seamless screen ever.
Camera Upgrades: What to Expect from the iPhone 18
Apple is on a mission to continue pushing camera innovation, and the iPhone 18 lineup will feature several upgrades.
- Most iPhone 18 models are expected to feature a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, a jump from the 18MP selfie camera on the iPhone 17, allowing sharper photos, improved low-light selfies, and much clearer video calls.
- The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may include variable aperture technology, allowing users to adjust the amount of light for improved photography. This is a major enhancement for Night Photography, Landscape shots, and Portrait depth control.
- Apple is reportedly working on simplifying the new camera control button introduced in the iPhone 16 series, making it cheaper to produce but still pressure-sensitive and customisable.
A New Era for iPhone Launches
- The iPhone 18, with a split launch schedule in two waves, is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most strategically important releases and shows that Apple is clearly adjusting its game plan.
- The iPhone 18 series could mark a major milestone in Apple’s smartphone journey with design refinements, camera upgrades and the possibility of the long-awaited foldable iPhone.
- Details will become clearer as leaks continue to emerge, but it’s clear that the iPhone 18 series is already expected to transform Apple’s release strategy.
