Apple May Skip iPhone 18 Launch in 2026, Push Release to 2027 Alongside Foldable iPhone

Apple may be getting ready to make significant changes to its iPhone launch plan. Although the iPhone 17 series is scheduled to launch in September 2025, there are rumours that Apple may forego the 2026 release of the iPhone 18 in favour of the model's early 2027 release, which is probably going to coincide with the company's first-ever foldable iPhone.

September will see the release of the iPhone 17 Series.

The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and a new iPhone 17 Air—rumored to be the lightest and slimmest iPhone yet—are all anticipated to be part of the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup. Apple has a long history of releasing products in September, and this launch is no exception.

Why is there no iPhone 18 in 2026?

According to recent reports, Apple intends to postpone the release of the iPhone 18 instead of discontinuing it completely. This would be the first time Apple has changed the base iPhone model's yearly cycle. According to industry insiders, the delay may push demand for other models, like the iPhone 18 Air, Pro, and Pro Max, while also coordinating the release of the iPhone 18 with Apple's foldable gadget.

The Opinion of Analysts

Prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously forecast that Apple would introduce the iPhone 18 in 2027 along with the foldable iPhone, rather than at its September 2026 event. Similarly, Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities, pointed out that a 2027 launch is more likely given that Apple's foldable phone might not go into mass production until late 2026.

Reshuffle of the Lineup Is Already Underway

Apple's portfolio is already being streamlined. In order to make room for the new iPhone 17 Air in 2025, the iPhone 16 Plus is anticipated to be discontinued this year. Apple's emphasis on lighter, slimmer designs with a wider consumer appeal is reflected in this strategic change.

What This Means for Users

If reports prove accurate, Apple fans may face a longer wait for the standard iPhone 18. However, the delay could signal a more significant evolution in Apple’s smartphone lineup, with the foldable iPhone debuting as the star attraction in 2027.