Apple may begin production of the standard iPhone 18 by the end of November 2026, according to a new leak shared by a tipster on Weibo. The smartphone is rumoured to launch in March 2027 alongside the iPhone 18e.
Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September, while the standard iPhone 18 is reportedly scheduled for a later release next spring.
iPhone 18 Production Timeline Leaked
According to the tipster, production of the standard iPhone 18 is expected to begin at the end of November. The leak also suggests that Apple is preparing a relatively large number of units, based on the expected stock volume.
However, this claim appears to differ from an earlier statement by the same tipster. A few days ago, the source suggested that Apple might reduce the expected iPhone 18 stock as it shifts its focus towards the iPhone 18 Pro Max and its rumoured foldable iPhone.
The latest claim does not clarify what the reported large stock volume is being compared with, so the actual production scale remains uncertain.
iPhone 18 May Launch in March 2027
A production start at the end of November would fit the reported timeline for a spring launch. According to the tipster, Apple may introduce the iPhone 18 in March 2027, alongside the iPhone 18e.
Apple has not officially confirmed the launch date or production schedule for either device.
iPhone 18 Expected Specifications
Previous leaks have suggested that the standard iPhone 18 could feature a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is also rumoured to use Apple’s A20 chipset and offer 9GB of RAM.
These specifications remain unconfirmed, and the final hardware details may differ from the current reports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will iPhone 18 production reportedly begin?
According to a Weibo tipster, production of the standard iPhone 18 may begin at the end of November 2026.
2. When is the iPhone 18 expected to launch?
The iPhone 18 is rumoured to launch in March 2027 alongside the iPhone 18e.
3. What display could the iPhone 18 feature?
Previous leaks suggest a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
4. Which chipset may power the iPhone 18?
The smartphone is rumoured to feature Apple’s A20 chipset.
5. How much RAM could the iPhone 18 offer?
According to earlier rumours, the device could come with 9GB of RAM.
6. Has Apple confirmed the iPhone 18 specifications or launch date?
No. Apple has not officially confirmed the reported production schedule, launch date or specifications.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Readhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.