Apple is expected to make a major change to its iPhone launch strategy this year. Instead of introducing the entire iPhone 18 range together, the company is reportedly preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September, while the standard iPhone 18 could arrive later. Apple is also expected to introduce its first foldable iPhone during the same period.
The foldable device has been widely referred to as the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold in leaks. Apple has not officially confirmed the product or its specifications, but recent reports have provided a clearer picture of what the upcoming premium models could offer.
September could mark a major iPhone lineup shift
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to debut in September 2026, alongside Apple’s first foldable iPhone. September 9 has emerged as one of the most likely dates for the event, although Apple has not officially announced a launch date. Earlier reports had also pointed to September 8, meaning the exact date remains unconfirmed.
The standard iPhone 18 is reportedly being pushed to early 2027. This would represent a significant departure from Apple’s traditional approach of launching its main iPhone models during the same autumn event.
iPhone 18 Pro expected to bring a 6.3-inch display
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to retain a 6.3-inch display size and use an LTPO OLED panel with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The phone is also expected to be powered by Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip.
Battery capacity has emerged as one of the more closely watched areas. Recent regulatory filings reportedly point to a 4,288mAh battery for the US version, while the physical-SIM version in China is listed at 4,056mAh. The difference is linked to variations in internal space between models.
Camera upgrades are also expected. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumoured to use a triple-camera system with 48-megapixel sensors, while the main camera is expected to gain variable aperture technology.
Pro Max may get a much larger battery
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to feature a larger 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Like the smaller Pro model, it is expected to use the A20 Pro chip.
Battery capacity could be one of the biggest differences between the two Pro models. Regulatory filings reportedly indicate a 5,391mAh battery for the China version and 5,567mAh for the US version. If these figures are accurate, the Pro Max would see a substantial increase over the previous generation.
The Pro Max is also expected to share the Pro model’s camera setup, including the upgraded 48-megapixel main camera with variable aperture.
Foldable iPhone could feature two OLED screens
Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone is expected to use a book-style folding design. Current reports point to a display measuring around 7.8 inches when opened and approximately 5.5 inches on the outside when folded. The device is expected to have a minimal crease and a premium construction designed around a slim foldable form factor.
The foldable model is also expected to use Apple’s A20-series chip and could come with 12GB of RAM. Its camera system is rumoured to include two 48-megapixel rear cameras. Reports have also suggested that Apple could use Touch ID instead of Face ID, although this remains unconfirmed.
India pricing remains uncertain
Expected Indian pricing for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone remains speculative because Apple has not announced official prices. Recent reports have placed the foldable model in the premium $2,000-plus category, while the Pro models are expected to remain positioned as Apple’s high-end conventional iPhones.
For now, the launch date, final names, specifications and India prices should be treated as unconfirmed until Apple officially announces the new devices. If the current reports hold, September could bring one of the biggest changes to Apple’s iPhone lineup in years, with the Pro models arriving first and the company’s first foldable iPhone potentially joining them.
Also Read: Apple May Delay the iPhone 18 Until 2027 as Premium Models Get Fall Launch
