While the iPhone 18 Pro models are already out, the standard iPhone 18 has been held back until early next year. The likely reason is that Apple wanted to maximize early production capacity and memory availability for the Pro models, alongside the foldable iPhone Duo.
Apple broke with tradition this year by launching only the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. A memory shortage probably meant the company needed to ensure enough supply for both Pro models and the iPhone Duo. Because the Duo is a more complex device, its production demands are also greater, even though it is expected to sell in modest numbers due to its high price. By delaying the base model, Apple may have given its manufacturing partners some breathing space.
Apple typically begins production well ahead of launches to build stock for initial demand. Production of the iPhone 18 is expected to start at the end of November. Leaker Fixed Focus Digital (FFD) says inventory levels suggest the company is building a significant stockpile of devices, which presumably refers to component orders within Apple's supply chain.
9to5Mac cautions that supply-chain order levels are not necessarily a reliable indicator of production volumes. Apple prefers multiple suppliers for most components to negotiate better pricing and guard against problems at individual manufacturers. FFD may simply have visibility into one supplier favored by Apple at this stage. Still, the leaker has a decent track record, making this an interesting sign that Apple may expect strong demand for the upcoming iPhone 18.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing