Overview
- Multiple outlets and supply‑chain analysts reported in late July 2026 that Apple plans a two‑phase rollout with iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and rumored Ultra/foldable arriving in September 2026 and standard iPhone 18 models pushed to spring 2027.
- Coverage frames the split as a deliberate revenue strategy that could shift holiday demand toward premium models and raise Apple’s average selling price during the key holiday quarter.
- Leaks and analyst notes say the Pro models will include major hardware upgrades such as an A20 chip on a 2nm process, titanium frames, variable‑aperture cameras, under‑display Face ID and larger batteries, though these details are unconfirmed by Apple.
- Reports tie iOS 27’s advanced on‑device AI features to roughly 12 GB of RAM, which would likely restrict full AI and local large‑language‑model capabilities to higher‑memory Pro devices.
- Analysts warn rising NAND/DRAM and advanced component costs could lift Pro prices by an estimated US$100–$300 (reporting suggests roughly CAD 150–400 increases in Canada) and could affect early availability for complex parts like foldable hinges and variable apertures.