iPhone 18 Coming Early 2027 as Apple Splits Release Schedule
Apple is gearing up for a significant transformation in its iPhone release schedule starting in 2026. Renowned industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has outlined a new roadmap suggesting that Apple will split its flagship iPhone launches between two parts of the year—something the company hasn’t done since 2011.
A Major Shift in Apple’s iPhone Launch Cadence
Traditionally, Apple has unveiled all its major iPhone models during its annual fall event, typically held in September. However, this long-standing strategy is about to change. Beginning in 2026, the company is expected to adopt a staggered release model.
According to Kuo, Apple will launch the premium iPhone 18 Pro models and a brand-new foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. The standard iPhone 18 and the budget-friendly iPhone 18e are set to arrive in the first half of 2027, representing a strategic split in product release timing.
Why Apple Is Changing Its Release Strategy
This shift in scheduling reflects Apple’s response to evolving market dynamics. One of the key reasons behind the new approach is to address the “marketing gap” created by rival brands—especially Chinese manufacturers—that typically debut their flagship phones earlier in the year.
By spreading its iPhone announcements across two periods annually, Apple can:
- Maintain year-round visibility in the competitive smartphone market
- Improve marketing effectiveness by focusing on fewer devices at a time
- Optimize manufacturing and supply chain operations
Apple’s iPhone Launch Roadmap Through 2027
Here’s a detailed look at Apple’s expected iPhone release timeline over the next two and a half years, according to Kuo’s forecast:
Second Half of 2025 (2H25)
First Half of 2026 (1H26)
- iPhone 17e
Second Half of 2026 (2H26)
- First-generation iPhone Foldable
- iPhone 18 Pro Max
- iPhone 18 Pro
- iPhone 18 Slim (Air)
First Half of 2027 (1H27)
- Standard iPhone 18
- iPhone 18e
Second Half of 2027 (2H27)
- Second-generation iPhone Foldable
- iPhone 19 Pro Max
- iPhone 19 Pro
- iPhone 19 Slim (expected to feature a larger display than the iPhone 18 Slim)
This planned rollout indicates Apple’s ambition to expand its iPhone lineup to six distinct models, offering more frequent updates and targeting a broader range of consumers.
The Benefits of a Staggered iPhone Launch
Adopting a two-part launch strategy offers multiple advantages. Not only does it alleviate the pressure on Apple’s production and logistics teams, but it also allows for more tailored and impactful marketing efforts for each set of devices.
This approach could also help Apple maintain sustained media coverage and consumer interest by spacing out key product announcements, rather than concentrating everything into one fall event.
Matching Global Smartphone Trends
Kuo’s insights align with recent reporting from The Information, which also highlighted Apple’s intention to release the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable device in fall 2026, with standard models following in spring 2027. This dual-phase strategy mirrors tactics used by leading Android manufacturers who have successfully spread their releases throughout the calendar year.
Looking Toward the Future of iPhone
If implemented, this will be the first time in over a decade that Apple has split its flagship iPhone releases across multiple seasons. The move underscores Apple’s willingness to adapt to a changing smartphone landscape and signals a shift toward greater agility and market responsiveness.
As competition intensifies and product lines become more diverse, Apple’s new release cadence could play a crucial role in helping the company retain its leadership in the global smartphone market.
