Reports have revealed that the iPhone 17 lineup has delivered a strong market response across the globe. Apple is now expected to carry that momentum forward in 2026 with the iPhone 18 series. In a new leak, a Weibo tipster claims that the company will soon begin preparing its next-generation models for production. While the lineup is expected to include multiple variants, not all of them are likely to launch at the same time.
Early testing and manufacturing plans
According to a Weibo-based leaker, Apple may begin testing the iPhone 18 series on mass production lines in early January. These tests are said to take place sequentially, allowing manufacturers to verify tooling, assembly flow, and component integration.
Full-scale production could begin before the Chinese New Year, which falls on February 17 in 2026. The same source claims that production lines for the iPhone 18 Pro models have already been established, indicating that the Pro hardware design may already be locked in.
Such early testing is typically meant to catch manufacturing issues at scale, well before global shipments begin. Despite the early preparation, the leaker notes that external design changes on the iPhone 18 Pro models may be less dramatic than many expect.
Apple is expected to introduce meaningful upgrades, such as the A20 Pro chip, a new custom C2 modem, and the possible debut of under-screen Face ID on Pro variants. The standard iPhone 18 is also rumoured to move to 12GB RAM and a 2nm-based A20 chip.
Split launch rumours
These leaks also strengthen talk of a split iPhone launch strategy. Under this approach, Apple could introduce the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026, potentially alongside its first foldable iPhone, while the regular iPhone 18 and an iPhone 18e may arrive in spring 2027. As always, these reports remain speculative and should be treated cautiously.
ALSO READ: Apple Music is now integrated into ChatGPT, here’s how to access it
Stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma to know everything about the upcoming Apple iPhone 18 series.
Unleash your inner geek with Croma Unboxed
Subscribe now to stay ahead with the latest articles and updates
You are almost there
Enter your details to subscribe
Happiness unboxed!
Thank you for subscribing to our blog.
Disclaimer: This post as well as the layout and design on this website are protected under Indian intellectual property laws, including the Copyright Act, 1957 and the Trade Marks Act, 1999 and is the property of Infiniti Retail Limited (Croma). Using, copying (in full or in part), adapting or altering this post or any other material from Croma’s website is expressly prohibited without prior written permission from Croma. For permission to use the content on the Croma’s website, please connect on contactunboxed@croma.com
- Related articles
- Popular articles
Anvinraj Valiyathara
Comments