A new supply-chain leak says Apple has extended base iPhone 17 production and expanded capacity, signalling the standard model will miss the usual autumn 2026 launch window.
The expected fall lineup is instead tipped to feature iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, an iPhone Ultra and possibly iPhone Air 2, leaving the base model to arrive later.
Earlier reports said the delayed standard iPhone 18 may share more components with the 18e as Apple pursues cost cuts and a split launch strategy between Pro and non-Pro devices.
Is Apple downgrading the standard iPhone 18 to fund its ambitious $2,000 foldable phone?
After recent engineering setbacks, can Apple's foldable iPhone Ultra still meet its planned 2027 launch?
Will Apple's new split launch strategy create two different classes of iPhone users?