Apple is preparing to radically change its iPhone launch schedule. According to new information shared by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is working on a radical roadmap. As part of this, some model launches are being pushed back.

iPhone 18 release date postponed: How will the new schedule work?

Apple is considering a two-phase process between fall 2026 and spring 2027 to reduce pressure on its supply chain and stabilize its annual revenue profile. The first phase, which will follow the traditional schedule, will see the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the long-awaited foldable iPhone Fold unveiled in fall 2026. This means premium devices will be released during the traditional timeframe.

However, there’s a delay to this plan. The iPhone 18, 18e, and the delayed iPhone Air 2 could be pushed back to spring 2027. This move would be part of the company’s strategy to deliberately separate affordable models from the Pro lineup.

The iPhone Air 2’s delay, in particular, stems from production constraints related to Apple’s A20 chip. The new A20 chip is based on TSMC’s 2nm manufacturing process and Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WLMCM) packaging technology. This manufacturing technique integrates DRAM and SoC components directly at the chip level. Therefore, early, high-volume production of the A20 will require some time.

Apple aims to maintain a balance in production and quality control. However, this strategy carries some risks. The iPhone 17’s sales success demonstrated strong demand for affordable models. If only premium models are released in the fall of 2026, the company could weaken its sales momentum in the short term. Furthermore, the simultaneous release of multiple “affordable” devices like the iPhone 18, 18e, and Air 2 in spring 2027 would lead to internal competition between models.

So, what are your thoughts on Apple’s two-stage launch strategy? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!