iPhone 18 Series: Everything We Know So Far in the UK

The iPhone 18 series is expected to debut in September 2026, with the high-end models launching first, followed by the base iPhone 18 and budget 18e in spring 2027. The foldable iPhone Ultra is also anticipated to launch in September 2026.

Apple’s release schedule suggests that the iPhone 18 series will follow the traditional September launch, with pre-orders opening on the Friday after the announcement and phones shipping a week later. However, rumours indicate that Apple may split the announcements and launch dates of its iPhone 18 models.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max seem assured, with the foldable Ultra model all but confirmed. The base iPhone 18 and budget 18e are expected to launch later, with the Air 2 potentially arriving in spring 2027. The design of the foldable model has been finalised and is undergoing engineering tests ahead of mass production.

The prices of the iPhone 18 series are still speculative, but similar pricing to the iPhone 16 and 17 models is expected. The foldable model’s cost is even more uncertain, with a starting price between $1,999 and $2,500 suggested. The iPhone 18 series is expected to feature improved LTPO OLED panels, increased screen brightness, and new colour options.

The Pro models may feature a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, while the base model could have increased screen brightness. The iPhone 18’s screen brightness is expected to increase from the iPhone 17’s 1000 nits of typical maximum brightness up to 1600 nits in HDR, with a peak brightness of 3000 nits.

Apple is expected to boost the RAM of the iPhone 18 base model to 12GB, allowing it to run AI models on the phone itself. The iPhone 18 models may debut with a C2 modem, and all models are expected to run on Apple’s upcoming A20 chip. The Pro models may run on an A20 Pro variant, offering up to 15% faster performance and 30% better power efficiency.

The iPhone 18 Pro models are rumoured to introduce variable aperture technology to the 48Mp main camera, allowing users to control how much light enters the lens. The standard iPhone 18 may also benefit from some of this new technology, with a significant upgrade to the selfie camera expected.

Details about battery capacity and charging speeds for the iPhone 18 series remain sparse, but Apple’s commitment to improving battery life and charging efficiency suggests incremental enhancements. The iPhone 18 series is expected to run on iOS 27, offering new features and capabilities tailored to the hardware.