iPhone 18 Pro & Fold: Release Date, Price, and New 2nm A20 Chip Leaks
The tech world is buzzing with 2026 leaks, and it appears Apple is preparing for its most significant launch strategy shift in a decade. Recent reports from supply chain insiders suggest a "Split Launch" for the iPhone 18 series.
While the high-end Pro models and the long-awaited iPhone Fold are slated for late 2026, the standard models may not arrive until 2027.
Quick Look: iPhone 18 Series Predictions
- Pro Launch: September 2026
- Standard Launch: Spring 2027
- Key Tech: A20 Pro Chip (TSMC 2nm Process)
- New Feature: Under-display Face ID (Narrower Dynamic Island)
- Expected Price: Starting at $1,099 (Pro) and $1,999 (Fold)
The 2026 Release Schedule: A Staggered Approach
In a move to maximize demand, Apple is rumored to split the iPhone 18 lineup. By launching the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Fold in September 2026, Apple can focus its marketing on the premium segment. The more affordable iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are expected to follow in the first quarter of 2027.
| Model | Expected Release | Estimated Price (USD) |
| iPhone 18 Pro | September 2026 | $1,099 |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | September 2026 | $1,199 |
| iPhone Fold | September 2026 | $1,999+ |
| iPhone 18 (Base) | Spring 2027 | $799 |
| iPhone 18e | Spring 2027 | $599 |
Hardware Revolution: 2nm A20 Pro Chip
The iPhone 18 Pro will likely be the world's first smartphone to feature a 2nm chip. Fabricated by TSMC, the A20 Prochipset is expected to provide a 15% performance boost and 30% better power efficiency compared to the A19.
Furthermore, Apple is reportedly using WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) packaging to integrate 12GB of RAM directly onto the chip, specifically to handle advanced Agentic AI tasks locally on the device without cloud latency.
Design & Display: The "Invisible" Face ID
While earlier rumors suggested a hole-punch camera, the latest January 2026 leaks confirm that Apple will keep a centered Dynamic Island, but it will be 35% narrower.
- Under-Display Tech: Apple is successfully moving the infrared flood illuminator beneath the screen.
- Brightness: New LTPO+ panels from Samsung are targeting a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it the brightest display in iPhone history.
Exclusive: Expected PTA Tax in Pakistan (2026)
For our readers in Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and PTA have recently revised customs valuations (Valuation Ruling 2035 of 2026). Based on the current tax brackets for flagship devices valued over $1,000, here is the projected PTA tax for the iPhone 18 Pro series:
- iPhone 18 Pro (Estimated Tax):
- Passport: Rs. 145,000 - Rs. 155,000
- CNIC: Rs. 175,000 - Rs. 185,000
- iPhone 18 Pro Max (Estimated Tax):
- Passport: Rs. 155,000 - Rs. 165,000
- CNIC: Rs. 185,000 - Rs. 195,000
Note: These are estimates based on 2026 valuation trends. Taxes may vary slightly upon official release.
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Final Verdict: Should You Wait?
If you are currently using an iPhone 15 or older, the jump to the 2nm architecture and the refined under-display Face ID makes the iPhone 18 Pro a worthy wait. However, if you want the base model, be prepared to wait until 2027.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When is the iPhone 18 release date? A: Apple is expected to follow a "Split Launch" strategy in 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and the new iPhone Fold are slated for September 2026. However, the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are rumored to be delayed until Spring 2027.
Q2: Will the iPhone 18 have a different design? A: Yes, specifically the Pro models. Leaks suggest a 35% smaller Dynamic Island (shrinking from 20.76mm to 13.49mm) as Apple moves the Face ID flood illuminator under the display. The Pro Max may also be slightly heavier (approx. 240g) to accommodate a larger battery and new camera hardware.
Q3: What are the leaked specs for the iPhone 18 Pro? A: The flagship Pro series will likely feature the A20 Pro chipbuilt on TSMC’s new 2nm process, 12GB of RAM for advanced Agentic AI, and a 48MP main camera with variable aperture for superior low-light photography.
Q4: Is Apple launching a foldable iPhone in 2026? A: Most industry analysts, including Jeff Pu and Ross Young, indicate that the "iPhone Fold" will debut in September 2026. It is rumored to feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.3-inch cover screen, powered by the A20 Pro chipset.
Q5: What is the expected PTA tax for iPhone 18 Pro in Pakistan? A: Based on the January 2026 FBR Valuation Ruling (2035), the estimated PTA tax for the iPhone 18 Pro will range between Rs. 145,000 to Rs. 165,000 on a Passport and Rs. 175,000 to Rs. 195,000 on a CNIC.
Cyberian