Apple may delay the base iPhone 18 to 2027 as a new release schedule leaks

Apple may be preparing for a dramatic shift in its iPhone release strategy, according to new information from trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The Cupertino company is reportedly moving toward a bi-annual release schedule starting in 2026. This could delay the launch of the standard iPhone 18 until early 2027.

If this turns out to be true, it will be a major break from Apple’s traditional iPhone rollout pattern. Usually, all models are launched together in September. This strategy may reshape the cadence of Apple’s hardware announcements going forward.

iPhone 17 Slim to debut this year

There are reports that Apple will still launch four models in the iPhone 17 series this year. One of these, initially rumored as the iPhone 17 Air, may be officially named the iPhone 17 Slim. This new model is expected to compete directly with Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge, indicating that Apple is paying close attention to design-led competition in the flagship space.

New launch rhythm begins with iPhone 17e

According to the leak, the first sign of Apple’s revised release strategy will come in early 2026 with the launch of the iPhone 17e, mirroring how the iPhone 16e is expected to debut earlier in the year. This suggests Apple is carving out a separate product lane for its more affordable models, launching them outside of the main fall window.

iPhone 18 series to fragment across two years

The biggest change would occur in 2026’s September launch, where Apple is expected to unveil a new set of devices: the iPhone 18 Slim, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and potentially its first foldable iPhone. However, the base iPhone 18 would not be part of this group.

Instead, Kuo claims that the regular iPhone 18 will be postponed until early 2027, launching alongside the iPhone 18e. This would spread Apple’s iPhone launches more evenly across the calendar year.

The motivation behind this overhaul appears to be competitive. Kuo explains that Apple wants to maintain relevance throughout the year, particularly in the first half, when most Android OEMs release their flagship phones. He notes:

If Apple goes through with this plan, the iPhone lineup could become more segmented than ever. It will have launches in both the spring and fall. This will potentially give the company a stronger market presence throughout the year.

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