The reason behind the possible change is the calendar. Apple is expected to hold its major iPhone event on September 9, while September 11 falls on the Friday immediately after the event. The reported Saturday schedule would avoid that date.
Apple has not officially confirmed the pre-order date yet, so buyers should treat this information as a report rather than a final launch plan.
iPhone 18 Pro Pre-Orders Could Start on September 12
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to be among the main products at Apple’s September 9 event. However, reports suggest that Apple could open pre-orders at midnight Pacific time on September 12.
That would be different from the company’s more common pre-order timing. Interestingly, Apple has used a Saturday pre-order schedule before. The iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus also opened for pre-orders on Saturday, September 12, back in 2015.
For customers waiting to upgrade, the change could mean simply adjusting their calendars by one day.
| Expected Detail | Reported Information |
|---|---|
| Apple event | September 9, 2026 |
| Possible Pro pre-orders | September 12, 2026 |
| iPhone 18 Pro | Expected in September |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | Expected in September |
| Standard iPhone 18 | May arrive later |
| iPhone 18 foldable | Could have a later pre-order |
Foldable iPhone May Have a Different Schedule
The biggest surprise this year could be Apple’s first foldable iPhone. The device, rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, may not follow the same schedule as the Pro models.
Reports suggest that production challenges could push its pre-orders to later in September. The rumored phone could feature a smaller outer display and a much larger inner screen, making it one of the most ambitious additions to the iPhone family.
The foldable is also expected to be much more expensive than regular iPhone models, with rumors suggesting a price between $2,000 and $2,500.
Cheaper iPhone 18 Models Could Arrive in 2027
Another major change could involve the standard iPhone 18 lineup. The regular iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air may reportedly be delayed until spring 2027.
If that happens, Apple’s September launch could focus mainly on its premium models. This would be a noticeable change from Apple’s recent strategy of launching several iPhone models together.
What Should Buyers Do?
The iPhone 18 Pro pre-orders schedule is still not official, so there is no need to rush. Apple’s September 9 event should provide the clearest information about pricing, availability and pre-order dates.
The Pro models are rumored to feature camera improvements, a smaller Dynamic Island and Apple’s A20 Pro chip. They could also become more expensive because of higher memory and advanced chip production costs.
For buyers, waiting for the official announcement is probably the smartest move. The iPhone 18 launch could look very different this year, with premium models arriving first and more affordable options coming months later.
