An overview of the expected pre-order and release timing for the iPhone 18 series. The Pro/Pro Max models are widely expected to become available for pre-order around 12 September and go on sale around 18 September, while pre-orders for the Fold are expected to begin from the end of September onward. The event is reportedly scheduled for 2:00 a.m. Japan time on 10 September, and although this has not been officially confirmed, an announcement is said to have been made. Further details will be clarified by future reports.
This article focuses on the pre-order dates and release timing for the main models in the iPhone 18 series. The Pro models (Pro/Pro Max) are expected to become available for pre-order around 12 September and go on sale around 18 September, while the Fold is expected from the end of September onward. The launch event is reportedly scheduled for 2:00 a.m. Japan time on 10 September, and the pre-order date may shift depending on developments after the announcement.
Looking at trends over the past 3 years, pre-orders have often opened 2 days after the announcement, with devices going on sale approximately 1 week after pre-orders begin. Many forecasts are based on this pattern. The pre-order and release timing is expected to vary by model, with the Pro models launching first and the Fold and standard model following later in a staggered release.
Pre-orders for the Fold are expected from the end of September onward, with initial inventory likely to be extremely limited. Forecasts also indicate that the standard model, 18e and Air 2 will launch in spring 2027 and will not be available for pre-order at this time. Prices are expected to be approximately ¥190,000–¥250,000 for the Pro, ¥210,000–¥270,000 for the Pro Max and around ¥350,000 including tax for the Fold. Exchange-rate movements and component costs may be reflected in the price ranges.
The standard model, 18e and Air 2 are expected to launch in spring 2027 and are not included among the models available for September pre-orders. There are 5 pre-order options in total: 4 mobile carriers and the Apple Store. Another key point is that the discount and return-fee arrangements differ by model.
Apple's official event announcement is treated separately as information that has been explicitly published, leaving a mix of confirmed information and forecasts at this stage.