Apple skips the base iPhone 18 at its fall launch event
Apple has opted not to release a base model iPhone 18 this fall, focusing instead on the higher-margin Pro and foldable models. Industry analysts suggest that supply chain constraints and a desire to protect profit margins influenced this decision.
Why it matters
This strategic shift reflects how global supply chain pressures and economic factors are forcing major tech companies to prioritize premium product tiers.
Apple is taking the unusual step of skipping the base iPhone 18 this fall. At its “surprise and shine” event today, the company revealed the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, alongside a new foldable iPhone Duo. But the base iPhone 18 was a no-show. Rumors had suggested Apple would only launch premium iPhones this fall, with the base model slipping to next spring.
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