Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 in September 2026, with a base price around ¥165,000 and Pro variants nearing ¥250,000. A foldable iPhone, dubbed iPhone Fold, is rumored for the same launch window with a price tag of ¥300,000‑¥400,000. This guide outlines the timeline, pricing strategy, and related model updates.
iPhone 18 Release Date and Expected Pricing
Following a decade‑long pattern of annual September announcements, analysts project that the iPhone 18 will debut in September 2026. The transition from a 5nm to a 3nm chipset is expected to increase production costs, pushing the entry‑level model to roughly ¥165,000—about a 10% rise from the previous generation. The Pro lineup could see price bumps of ¥30,000‑¥50,000, bringing top‑end configurations close to ¥250,000.
iPhone 17e: Low‑Cost Model Features
- A‑17 Bionic chip delivering improved power efficiency and AI performance.
- Enhanced 5G Sub‑6GHz support for faster connections outside millimeter‑wave bands.
- Larger camera module with a 12‑megapixel main sensor and built‑in night mode.
- 90 Hz display refresh rate upgrade from the previous 60 Hz, smoothing scrolling and gaming.
- 30% longer battery life achieved through a higher‑capacity cell.
Projected Announcement, Reservation, and Shipping Dates for iPhone 17e
Based on the launch cadence of the previous entry‑level model, the iPhone 17e is likely to be announced in mid‑February 2025, with reservations opening the following day and shipments beginning in late February. Aligning the announcement with the high‑end iPhone 17 release allows Apple to differentiate the budget option while capturing spring‑season demand.
Foldable iPhone (iPhone Fold) – Anticipated Launch and Price Range
Rumors suggest that Apple aims to introduce its first foldable device, the iPhone Fold, in the September 2026 launch cycle. The initial design is expected to feature a horizontal hinge, followed by a vertical “iPhone Flip” variant later. Pricing is projected between ¥300,000 and ¥400,000, positioning the device alongside Apple’s premium flagship range. Anticipated specifications include a 6.7‑inch OLED main display, a 6.1‑inch inner flexible panel, the A‑17 chip, up to 1 TB storage, and comprehensive 5G band support.
Why Prices Shift When New Models Arrive
Apple traditionally lowers the prices of older models shortly before a new flagship launch to clear inventory and steer demand toward the latest devices. Recent carrier discounts on the iPhone 16 series illustrate this pattern, with modest reductions on base configurations and selective price adjustments for higher‑capacity variants. The simultaneous rollout of the iPhone 18, iPhone 17e, and iPhone Fold will trigger a broader lineup realignment, prompting further price recalibrations across the portfolio.
Market Impact and Future Outlook
The anticipated price increase for the iPhone 18 aims to protect margins in the premium segment, while the enhanced iPhone 17e expands Apple’s reach in price‑sensitive markets. Introducing a foldable iPhone represents a strategic move to create a new product category and intensify competition with established foldable manufacturers. Consumers will benefit from a wider choice spectrum, and investors can expect Apple’s “multi‑tier pricing” and “new‑category entry” strategies to drive sustained revenue growth through 2027.
