Apple delays base iPhone 18 to 2027 — Pegatron's earnings report confirms it

Pegatron's latest earnings report, which covers one of Apple's key suppliers, has lent weight to long-standing rumors that the company will only launch its pricier iPhone 18 models this fall. The Verge reports on the development.

According to the report, Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a foldable "iPhone Ultra" in September. The standard iPhone 18, meanwhile, is said to be delayed until the first quarter of 2027. Rumors also suggest that the more affordable iPhone 18e and a new iPhone Air will arrive around the same time.

While Pegatron never explicitly named Apple, referring only to "one of its clients," the statements effectively confirm speculation that has been circulating for over a year. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and The Information reported back in 2025 that only premium iPhones should be expected this fall. Then, in early 2026, another Apple supplier said its key customer was postponing a smartphone launch until early 2027.

Pegatron's report attributed the shift to a shortage of memory and chips, which is forcing companies to adjust their peak supply periods. Clients like Apple are trying to spread out available components and are increasingly prioritizing higher-margin, more expensive models over cheaper ones. This aligns with earlier reports that component costs for the iPhone 18 lineup are nearly 40% higher than last year's models.

The delay means consumers looking for a more affordable new iPhone will have to wait significantly longer than usual. Apple's traditional September launch cycle has consistently included both standard and Pro models in recent years, so breaking that pattern marks a notable strategic shift for the company. The move also suggests Apple is betting heavily on its premium and foldable offerings to drive growth, even as it risks frustrating budget-conscious buyers.