Apple to change iPhone 18 release in phases and launch from India
Apple appears to be shifting its game strategy for the iPhone 18 series. As iPhone 17 fans are looking forward to this year's lineup, fresh rumors have already exposed the company's new strategy for 2026. Rather than a unified global launch period, Apple might divide the release cycle for various models. A foldable iPhone and new-design handsets might also be a part of this future upgrade cycle.
According to a report from The Information, Apple will be launching the iPhone 18 series in phases. While its past tradition has been to release all the models in one event, this year's iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Air will be released in fall 2026. The other models in the line, such as the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, may be released later in spring 2027, perhaps around March or April.
This change may allow Apple to better allocate its resources and reduce pressure on production timelines. It may also boost sales momentum by maintaining the lineup refreshed for a longer duration.
The latest iPhone 18 series could see its price increase. One of the reasons behind this expected increase is the shift in production to India. Apple is going to start production trials for the basic iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e models in India, as part of its efforts to reduce reliance on China. The production is said to involve higher costs, which could be reflected in the price of these phones.
The major reason for the gradual release can be Apple's intention to launch its first-ever foldable iPhone. The smartphone will allegedly hit the market along with the Pro and Air models in 2026. The new strategy could also assist the company in maximizing manpower utilization by reducing the need for a gargantuan workforce at a single point in time.
In addition, all iPhone 18 series devices are expected to come with 12GB of RAM. Apple can also equip the series with top-end 2nm chipsets from TSMC. For Pro and Pro Max models, rumors predict a shift from Dynamic Island to punch-hole camera cutout, hinting at an even more immersive all-screen experience.
Apple has begun reported trial production for some iPhone 18 models at its new Tata factory in India, and the same is expected to happen for Foxconn as well. This is a major step towards Apple's push for local manufacturing, as it attempts to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing facilities.
