Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro series in September 2026, according to multiple leaks and industry insiders. The new iPhones. Which include the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, are set to debut under the leadership of the company’s new CEO, John Ternus, as reported by Xataka.

Design and Aesthetic Changes

While the design of the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to closely resemble the iPhone 17 Pro, there will be some notable changes in color options and material finishes. Leaks suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro will be available in Dark Cherry, Light Blue, Dark Gray, and Silver finishes, according to India Today — the Dark Cherry color is expected to be the flagship color for the line-up, replacing the Cosmic Orange from the previous generation. Plus, the device is expected to have thinner bezels and a slightly updated Dynamic Island design, according to Xataka.

Release Strategy and Market Impact

The iPhone 18 Pro’s early September 2026 launch is expected to disrupt the usual competitive scene for premium smartphones; According to Forbes, Apple’s timing forces Android competitors like Samsung and Google to shift their product launch schedules. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 family is now expected to launch in February 2026, while Google’s Pixel smartphones have been moved to August 2026, as this shift leaves a narrow window for Android competitors to gain traction before Apple’s new flagship models dominate the market.

Apple is also expected to launch the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, marking the company’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, according to SMARTWEB.de. This move further complicates the competitive scene, as Samsung and other foldable manufacturers will face a new rival in the premium segment.

Technical Upgrades and Pricing

Under the hood. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature a new A20 Pro processor, according to SMARTWEB.de, while the device will also include a significant camera upgrade, with rumors suggesting the inclusion of a variable aperture lens and improved telephoto capabilities. The Dynamic Island, a feature introduced in the iPhone 17 Pro, is expected to be slightly smaller and more integrated into the display.

As for pricing, insiders expect a potential increase due to the higher production costs associated with the new chip generation, according to SMARTWEB.de. However, no official pricing has been confirmed, and the final cost will likely be revealed in September 2026.

Apple is also rumored to introduce an eSIM-only option for the iPhone 18 Pro, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. This change aligns with the company’s ongoing efforts to simplify hardware and reduce manufacturing complexity.

The iPhone 18, the base model, is expected to be delayed until the spring of 2027, according to Xataka Móvil. This shift in launch timing is attributed to supply chain challenges and Apple’s decision to prioritize the Pro models in the fall. The iPhone Air 2 and iPhone 18e are also expected to launch in 2027, further fragmenting Apple’s product lineup across two years.