A supply chain report says the iPhone 18 Pro has entered mass production ahead of its September launch.

Assembly partner Foxconn is offering significant bonuses to returning workers as it ramps up recruitment to peak levels. The report notes that hourly wages in Foxconn’s Zhengzhou Port Area A business group are as high as 27 yuan (HK$31.24), with returning workers receiving up to 7,500 yuan.

The seasonal nature of iPhone assembly means Foxconn and other Apple partners need to recruit large numbers of seasonal workers. They typically offer higher hourly rates than the rest of the year and substantial lump‑sum bonuses to entice people from rural China to travel to Zhengzhou to work for around three months. Workers live in dormitory accommodation during their contract and earn salaries that are significantly higher than they could earn locally.

In addition to a more powerful chip and display upgrades, the upcoming flagship model could involve three controversial compromises. Reports suggest it will be thicker and heavier than its predecessor and will continue the unpopular trend of not offering a black or dark gray colour option.