iPhone 18 in Intervals: Apple to Stagger Launch of Upcoming Series

Apple is reportedly planning a two-phase release for its iPhone 18 lineup in 2026, according to The Information, as cited by TechCrunch.
As per the report, the iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to debut in September 2026, while the more affordable versions—along with a successor to the iPhone 16e—are likely to be launched nearly six months later. A new foldable iPhone is also speculated to be introduced around the same time.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg reports that Apple is planning to launch a slimmer version dubbed the “iPhone 17 Air” later this year, with The Information indicating that a successor to this model could also arrive in 2026.
The report further notes that Apple is attempting to manufacture the low-cost iPhone 18 variants in India, in a bid to reduce its dependency on China.
Analysts suggest that this move could be a strategic response to pressures on Apple’s profit margins, which have reportedly been strained due to tariff policies implemented during the Trump administration in the United States.