Apple increasingly likely to skip iPhone 18 release in 2026

Apple appears increasingly certain in its move to change its device release schedule starting this year, with no iPhone 18 launch planned for 2026. The smartphone is likely to be released in spring 2027, leaving only the iPhone 18 Pro and Apple’s first foldable iPhone for 2026. This has been reinforced by recent comments from the supply chain. According to Macrumors on Monday (15/6) local time, the comments came from a source at Apple’s camera lens supplier, Largan Precision. During an annual shareholders’ meeting, Largan Precision CEO Lin En-ping stated that a major US client is postponing the launch of a new model until the first quarter of 2027. As a result, component procurement schedules must be shifted from previously established timelines, and factory utilisation is expected to increase in the fourth quarter of 2026. The phone will most likely not be released alongside the higher-end iPhone 18 Pro or the foldable iPhone this time. Comments from Apple suppliers rarely provide public details about future client product launches, but they are noteworthy as they can signal changes Apple is about to make. According to circulating reports, Apple has prepared a new strategy to split future iPhone launches into two periods. Premium models will continue to be launched in September each year, while more affordable models will follow the next spring. This phased approach is expected to help Apple manage manufacturing resources more efficiently as its product lineup expands to six devices, rather than five, while also helping to maintain sales momentum throughout the year. If implemented, this would be the first deliberate split of Apple’s flagship iPhone launches since the company established its annual autumn launch pattern with the iPhone 4S in 2011. The iPhone 18 model is not expected to feature a design change, with Apple retaining the same 6.3-inch screen size for the iPhone 18 and a 6.1-inch size for the iPhone 18e.