Apple iPhone 18 Pro news
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The gist
Apple plans to unveil iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Ultra in September. The standard iPhone 18 is delayed to spring 2027, making Pro the default new model.
Background
Apple is shifting to a split-launch strategy for the iPhone 18 series. Instead of launching all models together in September, Apple will unveil the Pro models and a foldable iPhone Ultra in September, while the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 are expected in spring 2027. This change makes the iPhone 18 Pro the default new iPhone for most buyers this fall, as there will be no base iPhone 18 available. The move is part of Apple's effort to streamline its lineup and potentially boost Pro model sales.
How it unfolded
- Aug 10, 2026TrendForce analysis estimates iPhone 18 Pro components cost 38% more than predecessor, with memory costs tripling.
- Aug 11, 2026iOS 27 beta references six unreleased iPhone 18 models, including Pro, Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Ultra.
- Aug 12, 2026Reports confirm Apple will skip launching standard iPhone 18 this year, with Pro models and foldable iPhone Ultra expected in September.
- Aug 13, 2026Rumors detail iPhone 18 Pro design (smaller Dynamic Island) and Pro Max (larger battery, thicker), with possible price increase up to $300.
- Aug 15, 2026Forbes reports a new claim for keynote date, but author disputes it; Bloomberg's Mark Gurman expects September 9th announcement.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- TrendForce estimates component costs up 38%, but some analysts believe price increase won't be as high as feared.
- Bulls
- iPhone 18 Pro becoming default model could make it the bestselling Pro model ever.
- Caution
- Some sources suggest starting price could be $1,399, a significant jump from previous models.
Still unverified
Exact keynote date is disputed; Forbes author believes September 9th but a new report claims a different date. Starting price of $1,399 is based on two sources but not confirmed.