iPhone 18 surprise — Apple might scrap its traditional launch timeline for next year’s phones

A new leak claims Apple could make a bold change in how it releases its iPhones next year, according to Digital Chat Station on Weibo. The leak suggests the base model iPhone 18 might not launch with other iPhone 18 series. This comes just after the launch of the iPhone 17 range, but new rumors about the iPhone 18 are already spreading.

Reports say the iPhone 18 Pro models will look very similar to the iPhone 17 Pro versions. The large camera bump and the triple-lens camera setup are expected to remain unchanged. Some changes are planned – the back panel may have a more transparent design, and the vapour chamber could be made of stainless steel, as per the report by t3.com.

iPhone 18 launch delay rumors

Digital Chat Station, a well-known tech insider with a strong track record, is behind this leak. The report also mentions the iPhone 18e model is being developed, even though the regular iPhone 18 may face delays. This is not the first time rumors suggested a separate launch event for the base iPhone 18 and the Pro models.

Apple may change its timeline

Apple has traditionally launched new iPhones in early September every year since the iPhone 5, with the only exception being during the Covid-19 pandemic. If this change happens, Apple could launch the iPhone 18 Pro models months before the base iPhone 18, breaking its usual pattern, as stated by t3.com.

Experts call this idea bizarre, because it could confuse buyers and break Apple’s long-standing timeline. For now, it’s too early to confirm, but having multiple sources reporting the same thing suggests Apple really may shift its release strategy. Whatever Apple decides, all eyes are now on the iPhone 18 series, and more leaks are expected in the coming months, as per Digital Chat Station on Weibo.

FAQs

Q1. Will the iPhone 18 launch be delayed?
Yes, leaks suggest the base iPhone 18 may be delayed and launch later than the Pro models.

Q2. When does Apple usually launch iPhones?
Apple normally launches new iPhones in early September every year, except for a delay during the Covid-19 pandemic.