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Apple May Hold Off on iPhone 18 This Year, Focusing on Pro Models and Foldable Tech
Confirmed
In Short: Apple is expected to focus on Pro models and foldable technology for its upcoming iPhone event, with the iPhone Ultra rumored to be the star of the show.
The iPhone Ultra, Apple’s first-ever foldable device, is expected to be the highlight of the company’s upcoming September 9 event, according to reports. However, the Ultra may not come with all the features of the iPhone 18 Pro models, despite its high price tag of at least $2,000. According to MacRumors, the Ultra will lack Ultra Wide and Telephoto rear cameras, a SIM card slot, and stereo speakers, which are features present on the Pro models.
Meanwhile, the Pro models, including the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, are expected to feature an under-display Face ID sensor, relocating the selfie camera to the top-left of the screen. This move is aimed at maximizing internal space, as the TrueDepth camera array required for Face ID is too large to fit in the Ultra’s design. Apple is also expected to run cables directly upwards to the side button, rather than across the display, to accommodate the necessary components.
Reports from The Verge suggest that iOS 27 will introduce a feature called iPhone Handoff, which allows users to switch between two iPhones using the same number. This feature is expected to be particularly useful with the upcoming foldable iPhone Ultra, as it will enable users to seamlessly switch between their main device and the foldable model. The feature is currently being tested in Xcode 27’s Device Hub, and its implementation aligns with the expected launch of the foldable iPhone Ultra.
Apple is also rumored to unveil the new iPhone 18 Pro series, updated Apple Watches, improved AirPods, and more at the event. However, the company may prioritize its more expensive, premium devices this year and hold off on announcing its base model iPhone 18, according to Appleinsider. The cheaper model is rumored to launch in the spring of 2027, potentially alongside an iPhone 18e and maybe a second-generation iPhone Air. This strategy reflects Apple’s focus on its higher-end devices, which are more enticing for people prepared to spend more on a new iPhone.
In addition, Apple’s portfolio has expanded, and the iPhone Pro and Pro Max lineup are more appealing to consumers. This shift in focus is likely to continue, with the Pro models receiving more attention and updates compared to the base model. The iPhone Ultra, with its unique design and advanced features, is expected to steal the spotlight, despite its limited feature set compared to the Pro models.
What's confirmed
- While you may be hoping for a refreshed entry-level iPhone 18 reveal, and perhaps a new-generation iPhone Air. 9.
- Here's What I Got Dead Wrong Apple Watch Series 12 Wishlist: 5 Upgrades Standing Between Meh and Must-Have Move Over Galaxy: The Pixel Watch 5 Might Be My New Favorite Android Smartwatch iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pro (Credit: Eric Zeman) According to The Information, the Pro models will feature an under-display Face ID sensor, relocating the selfie camera to the top-left of the screen.
- Details about the company’s upcoming products have been leaking for months, and I doubt there will be a single jaw left hanging by the time John Ternus —its new CEO—leaves the stage.
What's still developing
- Speaking in an interview with Tom's Guide, Gurman said "all indications that I've heard is that MagSafe is in for this foldable phone," pointing to the fact that Apple managed to fit the magnet array into the iPhone Air.
- Units shared by Dickson and Yuryev showed no indentations for the internal MagSafe magnets, while the mock iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max units shown alongside them clearly did.
- The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099 and has all of the above features, and while the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to see a price increase of $200 to $300, the iPhone Ultra's compromises could still prove controversial.
- Unfolding the 'iPhone Ultra' First, here's what you shouldn't expect at Apple's Surprise and Shine event.
- It was briefly mentioned during the WWDC keynote back in June, but there were no details at the time.
- Now there’s a demo clip showing how to set up the feature running in Xcode 27’s Device Hub.
- Fri Sep 04 2026, 07:18 AM EDT · 1 minute read The expected iPhone Ultra is still believed to be announced at the September 9 event, but supplies may be extremely constrained.
- In July, the company launched an iPhone leasing program that lets people pay a monthly fee to rent the newest iPhones, then swap them out when a new device releases.