The iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 have not been canceled but will be launched next year, expected to arrive alongside the iPhone 18e.
At the Apple Event "Surprise and Shine," Apple introduced only the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra, without unveiling the standard iPhone 18 or the iPhone Air 2. This breaks the tradition Apple has followed for many years, though there is a possibility these models will debut in early 2027.
For many years, Apple has always launched the standard model alongside the Pro versions at the same event, which is why the September event is often named after that year's standard model. This year, however, only flagship models were presented, with no more affordable standard models included.
This change was not unexpected. Since May 2025, reports indicated Apple planned to split its iPhone launch calendar into two phases, and this has now come to pass.
Apple has not officially explained the reasoning, but two main hypotheses are discussed. The first is that the iPhone 18 lineup is expanding more than before, especially with the addition of foldable models like the iPhone Duo. Launching all models at once late in the year risks them competing for attention. Splitting the launch into late-year and early-year phases likely provides better focus for each model.
The second hypothesis relates to the current memory shortage pressuring the industry, which also led Apple to raise iPhone prices across the lineup simultaneously. If Apple anticipated these supply constraints, launching the standard model alongside the Pro and foldable versions could have caused production shortfalls. Delaying the highest-demand model reduces supply chain risks.
Multiple reports agree these three models will launch in early 2027, including the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2. The most frequently cited timeframe is March to April 2027.
As a result, consumers will see the iPhone 17, introduced last year, remain the entry-level option for about another six months, now priced at $899. Those waiting specifically for the standard iPhone 18 will have to wait until next year.