Foldable first? Why Apple might be staggering the iPhone 18 release

Reports suggest Apple's first foldable phone potentially taking the slot traditionally held by the base iPhone 18 model.

Illustration: Tech Bird

Could a foldable iPhone be the reason behind a potential shift in Apple's well-established iPhone launch schedule? Reports are circulating that the tech giant from Cupertino might break tradition in 2026, possibly delaying the standard iPhone 18 model's release, making way for its highly anticipated entry into the foldable phone market. This strategic move could mean that the base iPhone 2027 (likely the standard iPhone 18) might not debut alongside the expected Pro and "Air" models.

According to a recent report from The Information, Apple is considering a staggered release for its next-generation iPhones. This could see the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new, slimmer "Air" model launching first, while the standard iPhone 18 release would be pushed back. If this holds true, Apple might be looking at managing the launch of up to six different iPhone models. This speculation aligns with previous reports suggesting that the Apple foldable release might not occur before late 2026, with these new whispers pointing towards a potential delay of the standard iPhone 18.

So, why might Apple choose to delay its iPhone 18 launch? Two main possibilities emerge. Firstly, the company might be aiming to generate significant buzz and position its foldable smartphone as a true flagship device. Competitors like Samsung have already established a strong presence in this sector, with seven foldable phone versions already introduced, including anticipated models for this year. If Apple were to launch its foldable in 2027, it would be considerably behind its South Korean rival in terms of model iterations. Secondly, ongoing tariff policy could be impacting production strategies, potentially leading to a more phased release.

From a user's perspective, the crucial question is: what unique features will Apple bring to its foldable device to attract consumers? News outlets suggest the Apple foldable design will feature a 5.7-inch external display when closed and an 8-inch screen when open. It's also expected to incorporate Face ID for biometric authentication, moving away from Touch ID. The form factor is rumored to be a book-style design. While initial reports suggest it might be slightly less thick than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, it's important to remember that the Samsung model will be several generations ahead by then. Adding to the intrigue, Apple is also expected to introduce a thinner version of the standard iPhone this September, tentatively named the iPhone 17 Air.

It's crucial to remember that these details are still based on rumors, and the final product could be subject to change. However, this peek behind the curtain does offer a glimpse into the future of foldable technology and Apple's potential strategy. While Apple's path in the foldable market might still seem uncertain, especially with competitors already having a significant head start (including Huawei's tri-fold concept and Samsung's continued innovation), the ultimate success will hinge on the unique differentiators Apple brings to convince its loyal user base. 

As more news about the Apple foldable phone surfaces, we will be sure to keep you informed. What are your thoughts on Apple's potential entry into the foldable market?