The next-generation standard iPhone, possibly called the iPhone 18, could break Apple’s long-standing release tradition by skipping its usual September debut in favor of a launch in early 2027. That’s according to a growing wave of supply chain sources and leaks, which also point to major hardware upgrades for the device - including a next-generation chip, more RAM, and a new image sensor.

If true, this move would mark a significant shift in Apple’s product strategy, potentially setting the stage for greater separation between the Pro and standard iPhone lines and creating room for a new budget model in the annual lineup.

Falling out of fall: Apple may delay standard iPhone 18 launch

For over a decade, Apple has consistently unveiled its flagship iPhones in September - exceptions being lower-cost models like the iPhone SE. However, sources from Apple’s supply chain, dating back to May 2025 and echoed in December reports, suggest that only the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will launch in fall 2026. The standard iPhone 18, they say, may be delayed until early 2027.

Leakers on Chinese social network Weibo throughout 2025 also reinforced this possibility. If accurate, the iPhone 18 standard edition would be the first major iPhone to skip Apple’s usual fall release cadence.

Design and display: Familiar form with refined tech

Visually, the iPhone 18 isn’t expected to bring a dramatic redesign compared to the iPhone 17. According to a January 2026 leak, it will likely retain a 6.27-inch display - rounded to 6.3 inches in Apple’s official specs - and continue to use a 120Hz OLED panel with ProMotion.

Dynamic Island will reportedly remain on the standard iPhone 18. The much-rumored under-display Face ID is still said to be exclusive to the Pro line, at least until iPhone 19 in late 2027.

While some rumors point to new translucent or semi-transparent glass backs for the iPhone 18 Pro, the standard model will likely only receive minor color tweaks.

Camera and controls: Simpler buttons, new sensor supplier

The Camera Control button, introduced on iPhone 16, may be simplified or downsized on the iPhone 18 due to lukewarm reception. Some less credible sources even claim it could be removed altogether, though Apple is known for prototyping multiple hardware configurations across generations.

In a more substantial shift, Apple may switch from Sony to Samsung as the supplier for its image sensors. The new stacked sensor design from Samsung combines photodiodes, transmission layers, and logic chips into a compact layout - reducing lag and improving responsiveness. Production is rumored to take place at Samsung’s Texas facility, dedicated specifically to the iPhone 18 line.

Processing power: A20 2nm chip and 12GB RAM come to the base model

Where the iPhone 18 may truly distinguish itself is in performance. Initially, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted only the Pro models would receive the 2nm A20 chip. But by March 2025, he revised that forecast, stating that the entire iPhone 18 lineup - including the standard version - will adopt the new A20 processor, built by TSMC.

Compared to the A19, the A20 is expected to deliver 10–15% faster performance and up to 30% greater power efficiency.

Apple may also adopt Wafer-level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging, allowing greater flexibility in integrating CPU, GPU, and memory without significant cost increases.

A major memory upgrade is also expected: 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM, up from 8GB on the iPhone 17. A new six-channel memory controller with higher bandwidth could significantly enhance multitasking and on-device AI capabilities.

Connectivity: Homegrown modem may still skip standard model

Apple continues to work on its in-house modem line. The C2 modem is believed to be in development as the successor to the C1, but it's unclear if the standard iPhone 18 will receive this chip. Most rumors suggest it will debut first on the Pro models.

Still, Apple has previously described the C1 as a long-term foundation, making a full rollout of C2 across the lineup likely in future iterations.

According to an April 2025 rumor, Apple may assemble a significant share of iPhone 18 units for the US market in India rather than China. While unverified, the move would align with Apple’s ongoing effort to diversify its supply chain amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

A quiet revolution in the making

All current rumors suggest that the standard iPhone 18 could be a bigger leap than its appearance might suggest. With a 2nm A20 chip, 12GB RAM, a new Samsung camera sensor, and potential changes in manufacturing locations, the iPhone 18 might reshape expectations for Apple’s non-Pro models.

And if its launch is indeed pushed to early 2027, 2026 could become a transitional year for Apple - centered around the iPhone Pro line and new Macs, while the base iPhone waits in the wings with perhaps the most understated evolution in years.

Hai Phong