50%
Plausible
The year has yet to end, and we’re already hearing whispers about Apple’s plans to begin the mass production of its 2026 premium models hailing from the iPhone 18 family. It appears that the California-based titan wishes to be ahead of matters, with a tipster stating that the production lines for the upcoming flagships are not just being tested, but the rumor also adds when the new devices are expected to enter mass manufacturing. As for how Apple has been able to move so quickly with this stage, it’s because the latest rumor claims that external changes are not significant compared to the iPhone 17 models.
Rumor suggests that Apple might commence the mass production of the iPhone 18 lineup before the Lunar New Year, which is February 17
After New Year’s Day has been concluded, Weibo tipster Fixed-focus digital cameras states that the iPhone 18 production lines will undergo testing, with a previous rumor from Smart Pikachu stating that Apple was already testing the new models with in-screen Face ID, hinting that the flagship devices could be the first from the company to offer a punch-hole front-facing camera cutout. As for the actual production, the new rumor claims that this stage could commence as early as before the Lunar New Year starts, which is February 17.
While Apple is no stranger to testing a multitude of iPhone prototypes before selecting one design, given that the company already introduced a major aesthetic change with the iPhone 17 series, we doubt that there will be any significant variations for the iPhone 18 models. However, there were previous rumors stating that the 2026 lineup could feature a slightly transparent back, coupled with dropping the two-tone color scheme in favor of something else.
One major change that Apple has been reported to employ is launching three flagships next year instead of four, with the base model possibly scheduled to arrive early next year and renamed to iPhone 20 instead of the iPhone 18. Alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the iPhone Fold has been reported on multiple occasions to carve a place amongst Apple’s two high-end offerings.
It is likely that not all parts will be ready for assembly, as Apple’s A20 and A20 Pro are not expected to enter mass production until the second half of 2026. Still, having the majority of components ready to be utilized saves a significant amount of time, and with the company ordering in bulk, Apple can command a larger discount. However, based on the latest rumor, it is unclear how Apple is moving with such haste.
Perhaps with the firm’s DRAM contracts nearing expiry, it may want to fulfill its objectives of obtaining the necessary parts in higher volumes and at a better price before it renegotiates with the likes of Samsung and SK hynix for future DRAM chip shipments.
News Source: Fixed-focus digital cameras
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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