No iPhone 18 anticipated for release in 2026, according to recent reports

In a significant shift from its usual release pattern, Apple has announced that the launch of the iPhone 18 will be delayed until spring 2027. This decision comes as the tech giant prepares to introduce its first foldable iPhone, expected to hit the market in the fall of 2026.

The fall of 2025 will see the introduction of only the top models, with the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max making up this year's lineup. The iPhone 17e, the standard model, will follow suit in March 2026, marking a continuation of the traditional release schedule for this model.

However, the iPhone 18, if released, will deviate from this schedule, potentially launching in spring 2027. This delay is linked to the introduction of the long-anticipated foldable iPhone. Apple has begun communicating this adjusted launch plan to its component and material partners.

The foldable iPhone is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max. This marks a significant departure since the iPhone's debut in 2007, as the iPhone 18 would be the first deviation from the traditional release schedule.

Apple has informed some of its suppliers that the iPhone 18 will not be part of the September 2026 iPhone lineup, further confirming the delay. The company is planning to delay the launch of its base model iPhone 18 to spring 2027, in order to focus on the innovative foldable technology.

This move is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to stay at the forefront of mobile technology, and the introduction of a foldable iPhone is expected to revolutionise the smartphone industry. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the launch of these groundbreaking devices.