Apple delays base iPhone 18 launch to early 2027, focuses September event on Pro and Ultra models
Apple will not unveil the standard iPhone 18 at its September event, instead planning to release it and two additional variants in early 2027.
Apple’s September product event will feature the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and a new iPhone Ultra, but the base iPhone 18 will be absent. Reports dating back to May indicate the standard model has been postponed to early 2027, with a likely release window no later than March. The delayed lineup is expected to include the iPhone 18, an iPhone 18e and an iPhone Air 2. Analysts note that Apple’s consistent September schedule is intended to reassure investors, and the shift may reflect strategic spacing of product releases or supply-chain considerations.
"The iPhone event is Apple’s most important product launch of the year. If the company ever fails to launch flagship new iPhones, investors would be very concerned," a market commentator said.
The company has not confirmed the reasons for the schedule change, and the base model’s postponement does not imply cancellation.