By Andrew Georgy
The iPhone 18 is rumored to be one of Apple’s biggest releases of the decade. Their next-generation iPhone lineup could be changing, including the addition of a new flip phone known as the iPhone Fold, as well as multiple other changes to the Pro models. Yet the question still begs to be asked: Will the iPhone finally be worth purchasing this year?
WHEN WILL IT BE RELEASED?
Almost certainly, most of the new lineup is expected to be released in mid-September, as Apple has done in past years. However, most sources point to a split launch, with Apple expected to release its Pro, Pro Max and Fold models first in September, and then its iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e in Spring of 2027. Most experts point to Apple directing the public’s attention to the more premium models first before releasing their flagship phones.
WHAT WILL IT BE PRICED?
Although there’s no guarantee, most outlets report that Apple may increase retail prices as competitors such as Samsung continue to push up their costs on their most recent models. With a new, more expensive chip and multiple new features, consumers may have to break the bank this year to get their hands on the new iPhone.
WHAT ARE THE NEW CHANGES?
As mentioned before, much is expected to change for the Pro models. For example, the battery may have up to 5200 mAh capacity, with a battery life of up to 40 hours, the longest ever on any of its models. With the new battery, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be heavier, with a reported weight of 240 grams. It’s also widely rumored that there will be a new A20 chip that is expected to increase efficiency and performance; after all, it’s the chip that does most of the processing.
WHAT ABOUT THE CAMERA?
The camera has been a long-running joke about Apple’s development of recent iPhones. Many users have expressed their disinterest in recent iPhones due to few changes in each model, with many joking about how the camera is the only feature that changes. Apple is expected to improve the camera for the iPhone 18 Pro Max, with sources citing a new camera feature, variable aperture, being added to the iPhone’s wide array of camera features. Variable aperture will enhance the quality of photos being taken in low-light settings, meaning they’ll be sharper even during the night. There may also be a new 24-megapixel selfie camera sensor.
A FOLDING PHONE? REALLY?
Yes, really! While we don’t have much information about it yet, the iPhone Fold is expected to have a plethora of features, such as a barely visible crease. The phone is expected to have a 7.7-inch screen, a 2713 x 1920 resolution and a titanium chassis. It’s also been predicted that the Fold will replace Face ID with Touch ID. However, with a premium phone comes a premium price: the iPhone Fold may cost upwards of $2000, with the range predicted to be in the high due to similar competitor pricing.
IS IT WORTH IT?
That’s a question for you to decide. Usually, most people would skip out on the new iPhone due to a lack of new features or feeling that their phone is sufficient until now. Yet, with all the new expected features, the iPhone Fold, and the delaying of the iPhone 18 and 18e to Spring 2027, this may be the first year in a while when consumers will be dying to get their hands on the new iPhone.
