Overview
- Multiple outlets and supply‑chain trackers expect Apple to hold a September keynote for three premium models — iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and a foldable ‘iPhone Ultra’ — with preorders and retail availability planned for mid‑September.
- Leaks converge on an A20 Pro system‑on‑chip built on TSMC’s 2nm process and an in‑house C2 5G modem for the Pro pair, changes that suppliers say will boost performance and power efficiency if confirmed.
- The Pro lineup is reported to include a major main‑camera hardware overhaul and a variable‑aperture lens that may be exclusive to the Pro Max, plus a roughly 10% larger Pro Max battery to improve endurance.
- Analysts warn early supply will be constrained by weak 2nm yields and shortages of DRAM, NAND and advanced packaging, which is expected to push iPhone 18 Pro prices higher by roughly $100–$300 and place the foldable near $2,000 in some estimates.
- Reporters and suppliers say Apple will delay the standard iPhone until 2027 and concentrate scarce parts on higher‑margin Pro and Ultra SKUs, a strategy that could shape carrier promotions, retail stock and buyer choices this fall.