iPhone 18 launch delayed by Apple amid Samsung-related supply issues
Apple is forced to change the launch schedule for the base iPhone 18 (collage: RBC-Ukraine)
Apple may alter its traditional smartphone release schedule and postpone the launch of the base iPhone 18 until 2027. According to Japanese media, the reasons include a switch to different cameras and plans to move part of production to the US, reports SemiconPortal.
For a long time, it was believed that Apple's decision to split the launch of the new smartphone series and delay the release of the base iPhone 18 was driven solely by the sharp rise in memory module prices and general supply chain difficulties.
However, fresh data from industry insiders reveals another, more significant reason for this strategy.
Supplier change and schedule shifts
Apple and Samsung have been collaborating closely on display development, but last year the partners agreed to significantly expand their cooperation.
As the contract with its traditional camera sensor supplier - Japan's Sony - was nearing its end, the tech giant signed an agreement to source chips from Samsung.
The change in key partner caused certain operational delays:
- The first prototypes of new camera sensors from Samsung began production only in spring 2026;
- The start of full-scale mass production of components shifted to autumn.
To ensure sufficient component volume for the entire model lineup and avoid shortages at the start of sales, Cupertino decided to postpone the release of the base iPhone 18 to next year. This will give the company the necessary time to accumulate the required stockpiles.
Read more: Apple hid mentions of Trump and Putin: what words the iPhone keyboard avoids
US manufacturing and additional factors
An important feature of the new agreement is the production location. According to available information, camera sensors will be manufactured at Samsung’s semiconductor plant in Texas.
This fully aligns with Apple’s strategy under its American Manufacturing Program and its desire to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
At the same time, analysts emphasize: high RAM prices and the difficulty of ensuring stable supplies remain significant factors that forced the tech giant to reconsider its traditional autumn presentation calendar.
