Apple changed its usual launch pattern in 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are already here, launched in September 2026. But the standard iPhone 18 did not launch with them. It is now expected in spring 2027. This article explains the full timeline of what has launched and what is still coming.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max – Already Launched
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are confirmed launched products, not rumors.
- Announced: September 9, 2026, at Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” keynote at Apple Park
- Pre-orders started: September 12, 2026
- On sale: September 18, 2026
At the same event, Apple also announced its first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo (shipping late October 2026), and released iOS 27 on September 14, 2026.
Standard iPhone 18 – Expected Spring 2027
The regular iPhone 18 has not been announced yet. According to well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and reports from The Information, Apple is moving to a split-release strategy:
- Expected launch: March or April 2027
- Expected models: iPhone 18 (standard), iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2
Under this new plan, Apple will release the Pro models in September each year and the standard models in spring. This is a big change from Apple’s old habit of launching all iPhones together.
Why Apple Split the Release
Analysts say the split helps Apple in two ways. First, it gives the Pro models a full spotlight in September without competition from cheaper models. Second, it gives Apple a second major launch in spring, when phone sales are usually slow. Supplier reports from companies like Pegatron and Largan support this new schedule.
What We Know About the Standard iPhone 18 (Rumored)
Since it has not been announced, all details below are rumors, not confirmed facts:
- 6.3-inch OLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate
- Apple A20 chip (2nm), with 8GB to 12GB RAM
- Dual 48MP rear cameras and a 24MP front camera
- Around 4,000mAh battery with 25W charging
- Expected price around $899
FAQs
Has the iPhone 18 Pro been released?
Yes. It was announced on September 9, 2026 and went on sale on September 18, 2026.
When will the standard iPhone 18 launch?
It is expected in spring 2027 (March or April), but Apple has not confirmed a date.
Why didn’t the standard iPhone 18 launch in September 2026?
Apple is reportedly moving to a split-release strategy: Pro models in September, standard models in spring.
What other iPhones are expected in spring 2027?
The iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2 are expected alongside the standard iPhone 18.
Is the spring 2027 date confirmed?
No. It is based on analyst reports from Ming-Chi Kuo and The Information, not an official Apple announcement.
Conclusion
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are already on sale since September 18, 2026. If you are waiting for the regular iPhone 18, you will likely have to wait until spring 2027. We will update this article when Apple announces an official date.
