Apple may split iPhone 18 launch and introduce foldable device

Apple may split iPhone 18 launch and introduce foldable device

Apple is reportedly planning a significant departure from its traditional release strategy for the iPhone 18 lineup, splitting the rollout between autumn 2026 and spring 2027. According to multiple reports, including those from Bloomberg, the company intends to launch its premium models first in September 2026, while delaying more affordable options until the following year.

The September 2026 window is expected to feature the iPhone 18 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a second-generation iPhone Air. Most notably, this window may see the debut of a long-rumored foldable device, referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra. This ultra-premium addition is expected to start at $1,999 or more.

Conversely, the standard iPhone 18, the budget-friendly iPhone 18e, and potentially other entry-level models are reportedly being pushed to February or March 2027. This staggered approach would allow Apple to focus marketing on high-end devices during the holiday season and create a second major launch window in the first half of the year.

Hardware Evolutions and the A20 Chip

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to be powered by the A20 Pro chip, utilizing TSMC’s 2nm manufacturing process. This transition is projected to deliver power efficiency improvements of 30% and performance gains of up to 15% over the A19. To further enhance speed and reduce power draw, the A20 may employ Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module packaging, which integrates RAM directly onto the same wafer as the CPU, GPU, and neural engine.

Connectivity is also slated for an upgrade. The Pro models are rumored to feature Apple's in-house C2 5G modem, replacing Qualcomm hardware to improve cellular efficiency. Furthermore, reports from The Information suggest Apple is preparing to support 5G networks served from satellites. This would expand satellite capabilities beyond emergency texting to full internet access, potentially through a partnership with Amazon's Leo satellite network following Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar.

A Heavier, High-Capacity Build

The iPhone 18 Pro Max may become one of the heaviest iPhones in years. According to Weibo leaker Ice Universe, the device could weigh 240g with a 9mm-thick chassis. This matches the weight of the iPhone 13 Pro Max and 14 Pro Max.

This increase in mass is attributed to a significant boost in battery capacity. While reports vary, some sources suggest the eSIM-only model could reach 5,567 mAh, while the physical SIM version might hold 5,391 mAh. Other reports place these figures slightly lower, at 5,425 mAh and 5,235 mAh respectively. For comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro Max eSIM model is reported at 5,088 mAh.

Camera and Display Refinements

The iPhone 18 Pro Max may introduce a variable-aperture main camera, allowing for mechanical control over light intake and depth of field. the Pro models may feature wider telephoto apertures for improved low-light performance.

For selfies, most iPhone 18 models, excluding the 18e, may be upgraded to 24-megapixel front-facing cameras.

Visual changes to the display focus on the Dynamic Island. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg and other sources suggest the cutout will shrink as Face ID components move partially under the display. While some reports claim the front camera will move to the top left corner, others, including Ice Universe, allege the central cutout remains but will be approximately 35% narrower than the iPhone 17 Pro. Display brightness is also expected to increase.

Design and Pricing

The Pro lineup may move away from black, instead offering colors such as dark cherry, light blue, and dark gray. Some rumors suggest a subtle transparent finish on the rear glass. The devices are expected to maintain screen sizes of 6.3 and 6.9 inches.

Regarding pricing, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projects the iPhone 18 Pro Max base model will start at $1,199, remaining flat compared to its predecessor. Apple is expected to absorb the increased cost of the 2nm chip, which is roughly $35 more per unit than the 3nm process.