Apple’s decision to split its iPhone 18 lineup explains the current market positioning around the base model’s release. At the September 2026 “Surprise and Shine” event, the company launched only the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Duo while skipping the standard model amid reported memory and 2nm chip shortages that prompted prioritization of higher-margin devices and $100 price hikes across the iPhone 17 and 16 lines. Multiple reports now converge on a spring 2027 debut alongside the iPhone 18e and possible iPhone Air 2, with the base model expected to feature an A20 chip, smaller Dynamic Island, and C2 modem. Traders are watching for any official confirmation or supply-chain updates that could shift the timeline before the end of 2026.