The iPhone Fold is increasingly becoming the focus of current Apple rumors. New clues from the supply chain provide more concrete timeframes for the market launch and simultaneously indicate that Apple is apparently working on a fundamental change to its iPhone strategy. Besides the foldable iPhone, new models such as the iPhone 18, a more affordable version, and even a possible comeback of the Plus model are also being discussed.
Apple is known for not rushing into new technologies. Instead, the company often waits until a market has developed and the technology is working reliably. This seems to be the case with the iPhone Fold as well. While other manufacturers have already released several generations of foldable smartphones, Apple has hesitated so far.
This reticence makes the current information all the more interesting, as it suggests that Apple is not only preparing a new device, but also rethinking its entire release strategy.
iPhone Fold: Sales launch likely in December
The focus of the current information is the iPhone Fold. According to a research note by Apple analyst Tim Long, prepared for the investment bank Barclays, there are indications from the supply chain that shipments of a foldable iPhone could begin in December of this year.
That would be a clear break with Apple's usual schedule. New iPhones are typically released in September. In this case, however, the iPhone Fold would follow several months later, after the iPhone 18 Pro models have already been unveiled.
A similar approach was taken in 2017 when Apple released the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus in September, while the iPhone X didn't hit the market until November. This parallel suggests that Apple deliberately separates major design or technology changes from the main lineup to give them more attention and reduce production risks.
New release strategy for the iPhone 18
Besides the foldable model, the possible delay of the iPhone 18 base model is particularly noteworthy. According to Tim Long, it might not be released in the fall as usual, but rather in March of the following year.
Speculation about such a staggered market launch has been circulating for months. New information from the supply chain now significantly reinforces this assumption. Should this be confirmed, Apple would spread its releases more evenly throughout the year. The Pro models would still be released in September, the iPhone Fold in December, and the more affordable or standard models in the spring.
This strategy could have several advantages. It ensures more consistent attention throughout the year and simultaneously spreads out production.
More models in spring
According to reports, not only the base iPhone 18 model but also two additional devices are expected to be released in March. One of these is said to be an iPhone 18e, a more affordable variant presumably aimed at the entry-level market.
The third model, however, is unclear. The analyst mentions either an iPhone 18 Plus or an iPhone Air 2. This is precisely where the situation becomes particularly interesting, because there are conflicting indications for both variants.
iPhone 18 Plus: First hints, but many questions remain
The potential return of an iPhone 18 Plus is surprising, as there have been no other rumors about it. It's therefore unclear whether this information actually comes from the supply chain or is more of an analyst's assessment.
A comeback is not entirely out of the question. Various reports and market research companies have indicated in the past that both the Plus and Air models were less successful compared to other iPhones. While Apple itself does not publish detailed sales figures, external analyses paint a relatively clear picture.
Nevertheless, Apple could adjust its strategy again. Should it turn out that the Air model performed worse than previous Plus variants, a return of the Plus concept would be conceivable. It's also possible that the Air model was only ever intended as a one-off experiment.
At the same time, one important point argues against an iPhone 18 Plus. If such a device were truly close to release, there would presumably be more indications and leaks already. The fact that this isn't the case so far makes the information at least questionable.
Role of the iPhone Fold in the overall picture
The iPhone Fold occupies a special position in this scenario. It's not simply another model in the series, but could open up a completely new category within Apple's portfolio.
A foldable iPhone would create new usage possibilities and simultaneously strengthen Apple's position in the premium segment. Furthermore, it could help differentiate the company more effectively from the competition, which has been active in this area for some time.
The later release in December would also ensure that the device is not overshadowed by the classic iPhone models, but remains the focus on its own.
How reliable is the current information?
Despite the many details, the overall situation should be viewed with caution. The information mentioned comes from a single research note and has not yet been widely confirmed. Furthermore, it is common practice, especially with Apple, for plans to change at short notice or for products to be released later than originally planned.
Therefore, it makes sense to view the current indications as an early outlook, not as final confirmation.
New iPhone strategy: iPhone Fold at the center
The iPhone Fold could be released in December, thus occupying an unusual but strategically sensible spot in Apple's calendar. At the same time, the information suggests that Apple will be spreading its iPhone releases more evenly throughout the year in the future.
With potential models like the iPhone 18e, an iPhone Air 2, or even an iPhone 18 Plus, Apple appears to be exploring various options to realign its product line. Whether these plans will materialize remains to be seen. However, it's certain that the iPhone Fold will likely play a central role in this development. (Image: Shutterstock / tinhkhuong)
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