Apple is deviating from its standard release timeline this year and splitting the iPhone 18 launch. We aren't going to get all of the iPhone 18 models in fall 2026, because Apple is holding the standard iPhone 18 until spring 2027. If you want an iPhone in the traditional September timeframe, it's going to cost you this year.

Apple's three most expensive iPhones will be introduced at its iPhone event in September. The iPhone 18 Pro will look like the iPhone 17 Pro, but it is expected to have a smaller Dynamic Island and a variable aperture Wide camera for more precise lighting adjustments. It will use Apple's next-generation A20 chip built on a 2nm process. The iPhone 18 Pro Max will be nearly identical to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, but it might be a little bit thicker because of a larger battery. Both models will come in a new dark cherry color.

Apple's first foldable iPhone could be called the iPhone Ultra. When closed, it'll be around 5.5 inches, and when open, it'll be around 7.8 inches. It will have Touch ID instead of Face ID and will be limited to a two-camera system. Multiple analysts agree the iPhone 18 Pro models are going to be more expensive than their iPhone 17 Pro counterparts, with estimated price increases of $100 to $300.

In spring 2027, Apple plans to launch the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2. The iPhone 18 will have a 2nm A20 chip, more RAM, and a new C2 modem chip. The iPhone 18e will get an upgraded chip and 9GB of RAM. The iPhone Air 2 could get a second camera and a bigger battery.