Apple’s big September event is just weeks away, but there’s one key product that all reporting indicates will be missing: the base iPhone 18. Here’s when to expect its launch.

Base model iPhone 18 pushed to early 2027 as Apple revamps launch schedule

The iPhone event is Apple’s most important product launch of the year. If the company ever fails to launch flagship new iPhones, investors would be very concerned. That’s one reason Apple sticks to predictable patterns for its iPhone launch.

The event happens every September—2020 aside—in the first half of the month. And typically, the new iPhone lineup consists of a base model, two Pro models, and a fourth option like iPhone Air.

But next month, per numerous reports dating back to May 2025, there ** won’t be an iPhone 18 base model**.

It’s a very surprising move. But it’s been corroborated by so many sources at this point that it would be far more surprising if a base iPhone 18 did appear.

Why no iPhone 18 at this year’s September event?

We don’t know the exact reasons, but some possibilities include:

  • Apple strategically spacing out iPhone launches to make room for more models, like this year’s iPhone Ultra.
  • Anticipation of the current memory crisis leading Apple to make the move to avoid a severe supply shortage.

Whatever the reason, the iPhone 18’s absence next month doesn’t mean it’s canceled. There’s still a base model iPhone 18 coming—it’s just been pushed ** into early 2027**.

Per rumors, three models will launch next month: iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max and iPhone Ultra.

Then another three models will debut in early 2027: iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2.

That likely means no later than March. For reference, Apple launched iPhone 16e in February and iPhone 17e in March.

So if you want Apple’s next generation iPhone without paying a premium for the Pro or Ultra models, you’ll just need to wait a few months longer.

What do you think of Apple’s rumored iPhone launch shakeup? Let us know in the comments.

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