iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and Air 2: Expected Price, Features and 2027 Launch Timeline
Apple may change its traditional September iPhone launch schedule in 2027, with reports suggesting separate launches for the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2. The upcoming models could feature A20-series processors, improved cameras and larger batteries. Here's a look at their expected specifications, India prices and possible launch dates.
November 15, 2026: Apple may make a major change to its iPhone launch schedule in 2027. The company usually launches all the new models in its iPhone series together in September every year. However, according to various reports, Apple may introduce three new models through separate launch events this time. The expected lineup includes the iPhone 18, the affordable iPhone 18e and the second-generation iPhone Air 2.
Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro series and its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, in September 2026. The company is reportedly working on the remaining models. These new phones could enter the market between February and April 2027, with March being mentioned as a possible launch month.
If this happens, Apple will hold separate launch events for its regular and relatively affordable iPhone models, apart from the Pro series. However, the company has not made any official announcement regarding these plans.
Apple iPhone 18: What features can you expect?
The iPhone 18 is not expected to receive major design changes. However, several upgrades could be introduced in terms of performance, battery life and display quality.
The phone may feature a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. It could also have narrower bezels and improved screen brightness. However, the smaller Dynamic Island reportedly planned for the Pro models may not be available on the regular iPhone 18.
For performance, the phone could be powered by Apple's next-generation A20 chipset, which may be manufactured using TSMC's 2nm technology. According to reports, the processor could deliver faster performance and approximately 30% better power efficiency compared to the A19 chip.
There is still some uncertainty about the RAM capacity. While some reports suggest 9GB of RAM, others claim that the phone could feature 12GB. In addition, Apple's C2 modem and 256GB and 512GB storage options may be available.
Possibility of a major battery upgrade
The iPhone 18 could receive a significant battery upgrade. According to claims by tipster Fixed Focus Digital, the phone may feature a 4,430mAh battery. In comparison, the iPhone 17 is reported to have a 3,692mAh battery. This would represent an increase of approximately 20% in battery capacity.
Apple may also redesign some of the phone's internal components to make room for the larger battery. There is also a possibility that the physical SIM tray could be removed in some markets.
In terms of cameras, the iPhone 18 may feature two 48-megapixel sensors on the rear. One could serve as the primary wide camera, while the other could work as an ultra-wide camera. Various reports suggest that the front camera may feature either an 18-megapixel or a 24-megapixel sensor.
Other expected features include an updated Camera Control button, IP68 water and dust resistance, and the new iOS 27 operating system. Siri's capabilities could also receive further improvements with iOS 27. Reports suggest that Apple is exploring ways to improve Siri's conversational abilities and its ability to work across different apps using Google's Gemini technology.
Apple iPhone 18e: What's new in the affordable model?
The iPhone 18e could be a relatively affordable addition to Apple's upcoming lineup. This model may target buyers who want access to Apple's ecosystem and newer processors at a lower price.
Instead of introducing major design changes, Apple may focus more on improving performance and battery life. The phone could feature the A20 processor, which is also expected to power the regular iPhone 18. It may also come with a C2 modem and 8GB to 9GB of RAM.
However, there are conflicting reports about the display. While most reports suggest a 6.1-inch OLED panel, a leaked diagram published on Weibo indicates that the phone could feature a 6.3-inch display.
The display refresh rate may remain limited to 60Hz. This means the affordable model is unlikely to support ProMotion technology.
In terms of cameras, the iPhone 18e may feature a 48-megapixel rear sensor and a 24-megapixel front camera. Major improvements could also be introduced in the battery department. According to some reports, the phone may use a 4,430mAh battery.
However, it is not yet clear whether the phone will retain a conventional notch or feature Apple's Dynamic Island design.
Apple iPhone Air 2: Better camera and battery
The second-generation iPhone Air 2 could receive relatively significant upgrades, particularly in the camera and battery departments.
The first-generation iPhone Air featured only one rear camera. The new model may add an additional 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera, giving users more photography options.
The phone could also feature an improved battery, a smaller Dynamic Island and an A20 Pro chipset. In terms of design, it is expected to retain a 6.5-inch display and a titanium construction.
The iPhone Air 2 may come with 12GB of RAM and an 18-megapixel front camera. Interestingly, some reports suggest that the new model could be approximately 0.4mm thinner than its predecessor. At the same time, its battery capacity and the number of rear cameras may increase.
However, it remains unclear how Apple plans to accommodate a larger battery and an additional camera while making the phone thinner. Information about the specifications of this model is still at an early stage.
How much could the iPhone 18, 18e and Air 2 cost in India?
According to leaked information and initial estimates, the expected starting prices of Apple's upcoming iPhone models in India could be:
| Model |
Expected starting price in India |
|---|---|
| iPhone 18 |
₹99,900 |
| iPhone 18e |
₹79,900 |
| iPhone Air 2 |
₹1,49,900 |
The expected starting price of the iPhone 18e could be similar to the revised starting price of the previous-generation iPhone 17e. Meanwhile, the iPhone Air 2 could start at around ₹1,49,900, matching the starting price of its predecessor.
However, these prices are purely speculative. Apple has not yet announced the Indian prices of any of these models.
When could the new iPhone models launch?
Apple usually launches its new iPhone series in September. However, reports suggest that the company's launch schedule could change in 2027.
According to the reported plan, the premium models will arrive first. The iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2 could then be introduced through separate launch events between February and April 2027. March is currently being considered a possible launch window.
However, Apple has not made any official announcement regarding the launch schedule, model names, specifications or prices of these smartphones. Therefore, all the available information is based on leaks and early reports. These details may change before the company's official announcement.