Apple’s 2026 flagship iPhone lineup may already be taking shape, months before its expected unveiling, following a detailed analyst leak that outlines hardware specifications for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple’s long-rumored foldable device. The claims originate from analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities, as reported by Forbes.
According to the report, Apple is planning a structural shift in its release strategy. The base iPhone 18 model is now expected to be delayed until spring 2027, launching alongside the iPhone 18e, while the premium Pro models and the foldable device will debut in September 2026.
For the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Pu claims Apple will retain the same display sizes introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro series: 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max. The aluminum chassis is also said to remain unchanged. Camera hardware reportedly stays consistent as well, featuring three rear 48-megapixel sensors and an 18-megapixel front camera, paired with 12GB of RAM across both models.
The major internal upgrade would come from a new A20 Pro processor and Apple’s next-generation in-house modem, referred to as the C2. Pu also suggests Apple will shrink the Dynamic Island further, continuing its gradual push toward maximizing usable screen space.
The most significant claim centers on Apple’s first foldable iPhone, tentatively named the iPhone Fold. The device is expected to share core internals with the Pro models, including the A20 Pro chip, 12GB RAM, the same modem, and front camera system. However, unlike the Pro lineup, the Fold is said to abandon the Dynamic Island entirely and instead rely on Touch ID integrated into the side button, similar to Apple’s iPad Air.
Display dimensions for the Fold are described as unusually wide for an iPhone form factor. The external cover display is reportedly 5.3 inches, while the inner folding screen expands to 7.8 inches, approaching tablet territory and resembling the proportions of an iPad mini.
If accurate, the leak suggests Apple is positioning the Fold as a hybrid between phone and tablet, competing directly with high-end foldables from Samsung and Chinese manufacturers while maintaining performance parity with its Pro tier.
Although these details remain unconfirmed and subject to change, the report points toward Apple entering the foldable market with a premium, productivity-focused device while consolidating its core iPhone lineup around fewer annual releases and more segmented launch cycles.
