Apple delays standard iPhone 18 to spring 2027, launches premium models in fall
Apple is making a significant change to its iPhone release schedule this year. For the first time in nine years, the company will not launch all new iPhone models simultaneously. This fall, Apple will introduce only the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new foldable iPhone called the iPhone Ultra. The standard iPhone 18, along with a more affordable iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air, will arrive in spring 2027. This delay is driven by global shortages of memory chips, particularly DRAM components needed for manufacturing. The company prioritized its premium models to maximize profits during the holiday shopping season. The standard iPhone 18 won't reach customers until roughly six months after the Pro models, making this the longest gap between standard iPhone generations in company history.
Key facts
- iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will launch September 2026; standard iPhone 18 delayed to Q1 2027
- Global DRAM memory shortage cited as primary reason for staggered release
- Apple supplier Pegatron confirmed the delay during Q2 2026 earnings call on August 12, 2026
- This marks first major iPhone lineup split since 2017 iPhone 8 and iPhone X launches
- Six new iPhone models planned: Pro Max, Pro, Ultra foldable, standard 18, 18e, and Air 2
- Standard iPhone 18 will have 8GB RAM versus 12GB in Pro models, delayed 6 months after Pro launch
- Battery of $1 billion in A20 Pro chips stuck at TSMC awaiting DRAM components
Limits of this briefing
This story has not yet received coverage from explicitly left-leaning or right-leaning political outlets; analysis comes primarily from technology and business press. Apple has not officially confirmed the strategy; reporting relies on supplier statements and analyst estimates.
Sources
- MacRumors: Apple Skipping iPhone 18 Launch This Year - MacRumors Centre
- Forbes: Apple's iPhone 18 Production Runs Into A Mounting DRAM Shortage Centre
- GSMArena: Apple again reported to skip launching the iPhone 18 this year Centre
- 9to5Mac: iPhone 18 won't debut this fall, here's why Centre
- Gulf News: iPhone 18 could skip 2026—here's the new timeline Centre