The iPhone 18 is noticeably absent at Apple’s September launch event, confirming the base model’s delay. This pushes the launch to early 2027 while keeping premium devices on schedule.
The tech giant skipped its traditional entry phone to focus on higher-margin devices. Fans expecting the standard phone only saw the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Duo on stage. We previously reported on this expected schedule change, and it finally happened.
Rising component costs and memory shortages are the likely culprits, forcing suppliers to shift shipping plans. Apple chose to prioritize chip allocation for its expensive models to protect profits.
Prices for the new Pro series increased by USD 100 dollars. Apple also raised prices on older models like the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16 by USD 100 dollars. In the Philippines, the base Pro model jumped to ₱94,990 (from last year’s ₱79,990), while the Pro Max saw an increase to ₱99,990 (from ₱86,990).
Also Read: iPhone Duo launched with foldable screen and A20 Pro chip, starts at ₱159,990
The standard iPhone 18 will join the affordable iPhone 18e and the new iPhone Air in the first quarter of 2027. Buyers looking for the standard models will have to wait until next year for store availability.
