Apple Reportedly Planning Split iPhone 18 Launch With Foldable Model

Apple is reportedly planning a significant change to its traditional iPhone launch strategy, potentially splitting the iPhone 18 series across two separate events, according to a new report from ET News.

The proposed schedule would divide the iPhone 18 lineup between a September 2026 keynote featuring premium models and a second event in early 2027 for standard variants.

This represents a major departure from Apple’s current practice of launching all iPhone models simultaneously each September.

The first September 2026 event would reportedly introduce the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone.

The standard iPhone 18 would be delayed to the second event in early 2027, alongside the introduction of an iPhone 18e model.

According to the report, this staggered release pattern would continue with subsequent iPhone generations.

The iPhone 19 Air, Pro, and Fold models would launch in September 2027, while the standard iPhone 19 and affordable iPhone 19e would arrive in the first half of 2028.

The proposed schedule suggests Apple may be prioritising its premium and innovative models for the traditional September launch window while positioning standard and budget-friendly variants for separate release periods.

The rumoured launch cycle restructuring could reflect Apple’s strategy to maintain consumer interest and media attention across longer periods rather than concentrating all announcements in a single event.

The approach might also allow Apple to better manage production timelines and supply chain demands for different device categories.

The inclusion of a foldable iPhone in the premium September lineup aligns with industry expectations that Apple will eventually enter the foldable smartphone market, currently dominated by Samsung and other manufacturers.

However, these reports remain unconfirmed speculation about Apple’s long-term product strategy.

Apple has not announced any changes to its established iPhone launch schedule, and the company typically maintains strict secrecy around future product plans.

The timing of these rumours, emerging just weeks before the anticipated iPhone 17 series launch, highlights the ongoing industry interest in Apple’s product roadmap and potential strategic shifts in the highly competitive smartphone market.