Apple Shifts Focus to Foldable iPhones and Premium Models, Delays Base iPhone 18
Apple Inc. is reallocating resources to prioritize its upcoming foldable iPhone and high-end models, pushing the release of the standard iPhone 18 to 2027. The strategic pivot aims to maximize profitability amid rising component costs and manufacturing complexities.
The Cupertino-based company plans to debut its first foldable device alongside two upgraded models featuring enhanced cameras and larger displays in late 2026. This MOVE comes as memory chip prices and supply chain challenges pressure margins across the tech industry.
"Supply chain smoothness remains critical this year," noted an iPhone component supplier executive speaking anonymously to Nikkei Asia. The remark underscores Apple's deliberate focus on premium segments where higher price points can offset inflationary pressures.
Despite these production adjustments, Apple's latest earnings surpassed analyst expectations. Strong iPhone sales and a rebounding Chinese market contributed to the outperformance, though CEO Tim Cook declined to comment specifically on the reported product roadmap changes when contacted by Reuters.