For years, Apple has followed a predictable iPhone launch schedule, introducing new iPhones in September – the standard model and the Pro model. In the spring, Apple often releases a less expensive phone – previously the “SE” iPhones and, more recently, the “e” series. However, that predictability might be disrupted with the iPhone 18 generation.
This year, the most reliable rumors suggest Apple will introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in the fall, along with a more expensive iPhone Ultra folding phone, but the iPhone 18 might not join them until later. The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e could be released in the spring of 2027, a first for the company that has typically launched its standard and high-end iPhone models together.
The delay in the standard iPhone 18 release could be a significant change for Apple fans. If you bought an iPhone 17 at launch and are looking to upgrade, you’ll either need to spring for an iPhone 18 Pro or wait until March or April when Apple likely holds a second iPhone event. The iPhone 18e is also expected to launch at the same time, with many of the same features and specs as the standard model.
The iPhone 18 and 18e will likely feature a less powerful version of Apple's new A20 processor, which should be made on a 2nm process by TSMC. The A20 processor will have a 6-core CPU, similar to that found in the A19, but with improved performance. RAM will be a bit tricky, with 9GB of RAM possibly being the configuration for both devices, although this is still a rumor.
The C2 cellular modem from Apple is expected to be adopted by the iPhone 18 and 18e, offering better 5G connections and power efficiency. The new modem may or may not support mmWave in the U.S., but it will likely enable satellite connectivity. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth will likely remain on the N1 chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.
The cameras on the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to see some improvements, including a 24MP selfie camera and a revised Camera Control button. The rear cameras will likely feature a 48MP wide camera and an additional 48MP ultrawide on the standard model, but the iPhone 18e may have a single camera.
The display on the iPhone 18 will likely be the same as that on the iPhone 17, with a max brightness of 1,000 nits (SDR), peak of up to 1,600 nits (HDR), and a boost up to 3,000 nits outdoors. However, the iPhone 18e is expected to get an upgraded display with Dynamic Island, a feature that was introduced on the iPhone 15.
The prices for the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to be higher than in the past, due to the rising costs of chip production. The standard iPhone 18 could start at $849 or $899, while the iPhone 18e could start at $649 or $699. However, these prices are still speculative and may change before the official release.
