Apple May Delay Base iPhone 18 Release Due to Samsung Camera Transition

Apple could deviate from its traditional simultaneous smartphone release schedule due to manufacturing hurdles. According to Japanese publication Semiconportal, the standard iPhone 18 model might be delayed until 2027, while the more expensive iterations are still slated to debut in the fall of 2026.

The primary driver behind this potential shift is the transition from Sony to Samsung as the primary image sensor supplier. Initial sample production began in the spring of 2026, but full-scale manufacturing is not scheduled until the autumn. This timeline could prevent Apple from securing enough components to launch the entire lineup at once.

A notable aspect of this partnership is that the camera sensors will be manufactured at Samsung's facility in Texas, USA. This aligns with Apple's broader strategy to expand domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on overseas suppliers.

These complications are compounded by rising RAM prices and ongoing supply chain bottlenecks. If confirmed, staggering the release of the iPhone 18 family would represent an unusual and significant departure from Apple's established launch strategy.