Tech Desk 
May 05, 2025
In an odd development, tech giant Apple is reportedly planning to split the launch of its far-off iPhone 18 series in 2026.
Citing a report from The Information, TechCrunch noted that the flagship iPhone series' launch will be phased due to supply chain sources.
Besides that launch, the iPhone maker is planning to launch the iPhone 18 Pro models in autumn 2026, while delaying the standard iPhone 18 and an iPhone 16e iteration to spring 2027.
On the condition of coming true, this shift seems to be ditching Apple's typical launch schedule of autumn.
It also emerged that a new foldable iPhone model might also make its debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.
In addition to the long-rumoured foldable iPhone, Apple is also expected to launch a thinner version of iPhone, rumoured as the iPhone 17 Air, whose successor has purportedly been planned for 2026.
Stemming from a broader manufacturing strategy, Apple is considering producing its more affordable iPhone 18 models in India. Doing so would reduce its dependence on Chinese production lines amid rising trade tensions and tariffs enforced by the incumbent US administration.
These changes reflect Apple's efforts to diversify its supply chain and change its product launch strategy.
