Apple may transition to a staggered release schedule with iPhone 18 lineup: report
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Introduction:
The news topic “Apple may transition to a staggered release schedule with iPhone 18 lineup: report” has drawn international attention, with various media outlets providing diverse insights, historical context, political stances, and on-the-ground developments. Below is a curated overview of how different countries and media organizations have covered this topic recently.
Quick Summary:
- The iPhone 18 series will include updated versions of Apple’s thin iPhone, Pro and Pro Max, along with the new foldable device. In 2027, Apple plans to release the standard iPhone 18 and a successor to the more budget-friendly iPhone 16e. Both those models, which are based on older and less complicated designs, will undergo manufacturing trials first in India. Apple also aims to launch its first ever foldable iPhone in September 2026. However, normal iPhone18 and iPhone 18e will launch later: In 2026, the iPhone 18 will launch in the fall, and the lower end models later in the spring. This means we likely won’t see a new iPhone 17e model launch next year, and that the iPhone 17 Air is only making up around 10% of production capacity. This could potentially boost iPhone sales, which have been stagnant in recent years.
- Apple is gearing up to make history in 2026 by launching six new iPhones, including its first-ever foldable iPhone. The foldable is said to feature a book-style design, with a 5.7-inch external display that unfolds into a massive 8-inch OLED screen. With a price tag expected to exceed $2,000, the iPhone Fold could become one of the most premium smartphones in Apple’s history. To accommodate the diverse new offerings, Apple is planning a split launch schedule for 2026:Spring 2026 : iPhone 18 (Standard) iPhone 16e Successor: Fall 2026 : iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, 18 Air, and iPhone Fold. Apple is also developing a special edition iPhone Pro model made from premium glass materials. The 20th anniversary iPhone Pro is also in the works.
- Apple is reportedly planning a major shift in its iPhone release strategy. The high-end iPhone 18 Pro, and the long-awaited foldable iPhone will debut in fall 2026, while the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Air, and iPhone 18e are expected to arrive in spring 2027. This new staggered release schedule is part of Apple’s broader effort to reinvigorate slowing iPhone sales. By spacing out releases, Apple also aims to better manage manufacturing resources and labor needs, especially as it shifts some production outside of China to regions like India. The upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to be a slimmer and lighter model, with only around 10% of production capacity allocated to it. If interest in the model does not meet expectations, manufacturers are prepared to shift that capacity to other iPhone 17 variants.
Country-by-Country Breakdown:
Original Coverage
The iPhone 18 series will include updated versions of Apple’s thin iPhone, Pro and Pro Max, along with the new foldable device. In 2027, Apple plans to release the standard iPhone 18 and a successor to the more budget-friendly iPhone 16e. Both those models, which are based on older and less complicated designs, will undergo manufacturing trials first in India. Apple also aims to launch its first ever foldable iPhone in September 2026. However, normal iPhone18 and iPhone 18e will launch later: In 2026, the iPhone 18 will launch in the fall, and the lower end models later in the spring. This means we likely won’t see a new iPhone 17e model launch next year, and that the iPhone 17 Air is only making up around 10% of production capacity. This could potentially boost iPhone sales, which have been stagnant in recent years. Read full article
iPhone Lineup May Get Major Shake-Up in 2026 with Foldable iPhone and Split Release Strategy
Apple is gearing up to make history in 2026 by launching six new iPhones, including its first-ever foldable iPhone. The foldable is said to feature a book-style design, with a 5.7-inch external display that unfolds into a massive 8-inch OLED screen. With a price tag expected to exceed $2,000, the iPhone Fold could become one of the most premium smartphones in Apple’s history. To accommodate the diverse new offerings, Apple is planning a split launch schedule for 2026:Spring 2026 : iPhone 18 (Standard) iPhone 16e Successor: Fall 2026 : iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, 18 Air, and iPhone Fold. Apple is also developing a special edition iPhone Pro model made from premium glass materials. The 20th anniversary iPhone Pro is also in the works. Read full article
Apple to split iPhone 18 launch into two phases starting in 2026
Apple is reportedly planning a major shift in its iPhone release strategy. The high-end iPhone 18 Pro, and the long-awaited foldable iPhone will debut in fall 2026, while the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Air, and iPhone 18e are expected to arrive in spring 2027. This new staggered release schedule is part of Apple’s broader effort to reinvigorate slowing iPhone sales. By spacing out releases, Apple also aims to better manage manufacturing resources and labor needs, especially as it shifts some production outside of China to regions like India. The upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to be a slimmer and lighter model, with only around 10% of production capacity allocated to it. If interest in the model does not meet expectations, manufacturers are prepared to shift that capacity to other iPhone 17 variants. Read full article
iPhone 18 Pro will have a curious design choice if this rumor is true
Apple has long pursued the goal of eliminating bezels and notches to create a truly uninterrupted iPhone display. The company is reportedly planning to move Face ID components under the display by 2026, allowing it to eliminate the pill-shaped cutout that forms part of the Dynamic Island today. That would pave the way for an iPhone—likely the iPhone 18 Pro—to reduce visible display interruptions to just a single hole-punch for the front-facing camera. However, a new report from The Information’s Wayne Ma says this camera cutout may be in a surprising spot: the top-left corner of the display. This design is a precursor to at least one 2027 iPhone model that will place theFront-facing Camera underneath the screen to enable a truly edge-to-edge display, two of the sources said. Read full article
Global Perspectives Summary:
Global media portray this story through varied cultural, economic, and political filters. While some focus on geopolitical ramifications, others highlight local impacts and human stories. Some nations frame the story around diplomatic tensions and international relations, while others examine domestic implications, public sentiment, or humanitarian concerns. This diversity of coverage reflects how national perspectives, media freedom, and journalistic priorities influence what the public learns about global events.
How did your country report this? Share your view in the comments.
Sources:
- Original Article
- iPhone Lineup May Get Major Shake-Up in 2026 with Foldable iPhone and Split Release Strategy
- Apple to split iPhone 18 launch into two phases starting in 2026
- iPhone 18 Pro will have a curious design choice if this rumor is true
Source: https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/03/apple-iphone-18-lineup-staggered-release-report/