The iPhone 18 series may still be over a year away, but early leaks are already painting an interesting picture of what could be Apple’s next big leap. Following the launch of the dramatically overhauled iPhone 17 series, which included the ultra-slim iPhone Air replacing the Plus model, and democratising the 120Hz ProMotion displays, industry insiders now spill the beans on the iPhone 18 series. It is said that the iPhone 18 models will continue Apple’s push toward thinner designs, new materials, and potentially a reworked release cycle!
The iPhone 18 series is rumoured to debut Apple’s new 2 Nm chipsets, thus upgrading the performance ceiling. Rumours also hint at new camera sensors, nicer display panels, new AI features, and a lot more. Let’s start with one of the most crucial ones, which is the iPhone 18’s expected release date.
iPhone 18 series: Expected release date
For over a decade, Apple has announced new iPhones in September of every year, with the only exception being the pandemic-disrupted year of 2020. However, according to a recent report from ETNews, Apple may be planning a shift in launch strategy for the iPhone 18 series.
The company is now expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, along with the iPhone Fold in September 2026, thus sticking to its usual fall release window. However, the standard iPhone 18 and the budget-friendly iPhone 18e might not arrive until Spring 2027 (around March 2027). Also, plans for an iPhone Air 2 seem to have been put on hold for the moment.
iPhone 18 expected launch price
Industry watchers believe Apple will try to maintain stability amid rising manufacturing costs and global tariffs. The iPhone 17 base model launched at $799, while the iPhone 17 Pro started at $1,099, with the Pro Max holding steady at $1,199. Insiders predict that the iPhone 18 Pro will likely retain the same starting price, while the entry-level models could see minor adjustments depending on its delayed 2027 release.
iPhone 18 leaked specifications
Early leaks point toward Apple’s A20 chip, built on a next-generation 2-nanometer process, promising improved efficiency and AI performance. Apple has already begun integrating Apple Intelligence features across its devices, and the iPhone 18 is expected to take that further with on-device generative AI, smarter Siri capabilities, and advanced text-to-image tools, all of which could be based on Google Gemini.
Rumors also suggest potential camera system refinements, though one key upgrade may be postponed. According to supply chain sources, a major sensor-level camera enhancement originally slated for the iPhone 18 might be delayed until the iPhone 19 in 2027.
iPhone 18 design upgrades
The iPhone 17 series marked a huge update in Apple’s design philosophy, especially with the introduction of the iPhone Air. That same design ethos is expected to carry over to the iPhone 18 lineup, with rumours pointing to a more compact body, slimmer bezels, and stronger construction.
Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly finalising work on its first foldable iPhone, internally dubbed the iPhone Fold. Sources suggest it could resemble “two titanium iPhone Airs” joined together — with a starting price north of $2,000. The foldable model may debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup in late 2026, positioning Apple against Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
