How 2026 Will Break iPhone 18 Series Launch In Multiple Events: Explained

Apple is expected to change its iPhone launch strategy in 2026 by announcing multiple events for iPhone 18 series. Here is what we will witness.

Published By: Divya | Published: Jan 06, 2026, 07:48 PM (IST)

techlusive.in Written By article news — Written By Divya

For years, Apple has followed a very predictable rhythm. One major September event, one stage, and all flagship iPhones for the year arrive together. That’s how we’ve seen it with almost every iPhone generation so far.Also Read: i-relief! iPhone 18 Pro price may remain same as iPhone 17 Pro, here's why

But 2026 might quietly break that tradition! As per recent reports, Apple is expected to split its iPhone 18 launch into multiple events, instead of announcing the entire lineup at once. If this happens, it would mark one of the biggest changes in Apple’s iPhone strategy in over a decade.Also Read: Apple may boost iPhone 18 Pro Max battery as Android phones hit 10,000mAh

What’s changing with the iPhone 18 launch

The biggest surprise here is that the standard iPhone 18 may not launch in 2026 at all. Reports suggest Apple could delay the base model to spring 2027, while still sticking to its usual fall timeline for premium devices.Also Read: iPhone 18 series may stick to the same design, leak suggests

This means the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are still expected to debut in fall 2026, but without the regular iPhone 18 alongside them. Instead, Apple may reserve the fall event for higher-end models only.

What happens to the iPhone 17 then?

If this plan goes ahead, the iPhone 17, launching in 2025, would stay on sale as Apple’s latest standard iPhone for nearly 18 months. That’s unusually long by Apple’s standards.

Historically, Apple refreshes its main iPhone every year. The only close exception was the gap between the iPhone 4 and 4s. This new cycle would stretch that gap even further.

Why Apple may be doing this

There are a few practical reasons behind this reported shift.

First, Apple’s iPhone lineup has grown a lot. Between entry-level models, Plus variants, Pro models, Air versions, and a foldable iPhone expected in 2026, Apple could have eight or more iPhones on sale at the same time.

Second, focusing the fall event on premium devices helps Apple push higher margins. More affordable or standard models can then launch later, with less internal competition.

There’s also a supply chain angle. New chip technologies, including a possible move to smaller nanometre processes, are expensive. Staggered launches could give Apple more flexibility with production and costs.