Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 lineup could see a major change in its launch schedule. According to Pegatron, the higher-end iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to launch in September 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 could be delayed until the first quarter of 2027.
The reported delay is linked to ongoing shortages of memory and semiconductor components. Pegatron said customer shipment schedules are expected to change as Apple and its manufacturing partners adjust production according to component availability.
The iPhone 18 Pro series is still expected to follow Apple’s usual September launch timeline. However, the standard iPhone 18 may arrive several months later, marking a significant change from Apple’s traditional launch strategy.
The situation is being made worse by the rapid growth of AI servers. AI infrastructure is using huge amounts of advanced memory and semiconductor manufacturing capacity, putting additional pressure on the smartphone supply chain.
Reports suggest the problem goes beyond memory shortages. Advanced chip packaging capacity is also under pressure, which could affect the production of key system-on-chip components.
Because of the limited supply, Apple could prioritize its more expensive Pro models. These devices generally offer higher margins, making them a more attractive option when key components are difficult to secure.
The supply problems could also affect iPhone prices. Memory costs have risen sharply, leading to speculation that Apple may increase prices for some upcoming models. However, Pegatron noted that retail pricing is ultimately decided by Apple.
For buyers, the situation could make the iPhone 18 launch more complicated. Customers who want a new iPhone in September may have to choose an iPhone 18 Pro model, while those waiting for the standard iPhone 18 could have to wait until early 2027.
The component shortage is also expected to affect the wider smartphone and PC markets. Pegatron expects smartphone shipments to decline slightly this year because of memory and chip shortages.
However, the company believes consumer electronics demand has not disappeared. Instead, the timing of purchases could shift as manufacturers deal with higher component costs and limited supply.
Pegatron expects the memory shortage to continue for some time. The company estimates that it could take around 18 months to two years for supply to catch up with demand, with the situation potentially improving around 2028.
At the same time, Pegatron is moving more resources toward AI server manufacturing. The company expects its AI server business to grow by more than 10 times this year as demand from cloud service providers and AI infrastructure companies continues to increase.
The situation highlights how strongly the AI boom is affecting the consumer electronics industry. While smartphone manufacturers are dealing with tighter component supplies, AI server demand is consuming more advanced chips, memory and manufacturing capacity.
Apple’s iPhone 18 launch could therefore become one of its most unusual releases in recent years. If the current supply situation continues, the iPhone 18 Pro models could arrive in September, while the standard iPhone 18 may be pushed to early 2027.
PassionateGeekz has also covered Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone, which is expected to arrive around the iPhone 18 generation. Check out our coverage of the Apple foldable iPhone for more details.
Apple has not officially confirmed the delayed launch of the standard iPhone 18 yet. More details are expected as the September launch gets closer.
Would you wait for the standard iPhone 18 if it launches in 2027, or would you choose the iPhone 18 Pro in September? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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