This may not be the news you want to hear if you’re planning to upgrade your iPhone very soon, but you probably won’t have a base iPhone 18 to choose from until 2027.
This means that buyers who are looking for a more budget-friendly option will likely have to wait longer than usual before they can purchase an iPhone 18.
However, the opposite may be true, and this new timeline may actually benefit you.
A “budget” iPhone that could match Pro performance
The iPhone 18’s RAM capacity has been one of the most discussed features. As per Dan Nystedt, a tech analyst, Apple could offer the standard model with 12 GB of RAM.
This rumor making the rounds again, add 12GB of RAM. https://t.co/vP14mEn5le
— Dan Nystedt (@dnystedt) April 24, 2026
This is significant because it only now appeared in the higher-end iPhones, such as the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, with 12GB RAM in 2025, and if Apple provides the same capabilities for the significantly cheaper standard iPhone model, it will help to narrow the gap between “standard” and “Pro.”
Its probable that Apple is not just producing more powerful hardware for performance; they are also focused on providing high-quality software as well.
With Apple expected to introduce iOS 27 at the same time it releases new devices that have been equipped with Apple’s intelligence capabilities, the hardware needed to support such AI developments will not be inexpensive.
Ultimately, having additional RAM will allow for smoother performance when processing data using AI on the device, improve multitasking capability, and increase usable life. In other words, Apple is anticipating that even its basic iPhones will be able to handle the same levels of AI processing as current iPhones without experiencing any performance decrease.
Design upgrades
Leaks suggest the iPhone 18 could bring some noticeable design tweaks. These include an under-display front camera for Face ID, a smaller Dynamic Island, and a simplified pressure-sensitive camera control button.
There are also talks of new colour options, including a coffee brown finish.
Still, don’t expect a complete redesign. This is likely to remain a “balanced” iPhone, solid upgrades without going full flagship.
Even if you don’t end up buying the iPhone 18, holding off still has benefits.
Once the new lineup launches, older models like the iPhone 17 are almost guaranteed to drop in price. That’s been Apple’s pattern for years.
So you either get a more powerful base model in 2027, or you grab a previous-gen device at a much better price. Either way, waiting puts you in a stronger position.
So, should you actually wait?
When your phone fails to function as it used to – upgrade, so you’re not stuck with a broken device for another two years! If your device is still working adequately, hold off on upgrading.
The iPhone 18 is not like other iPhones released every year. It may even be the point at which all iPhones, even at their “budget” levels, have a true premium feel – especially since most of the experience will be AI-driven!
Sometimes, taking your time when deciding whether or not to upgrade is in your best interest.
Also Read: iPhone 18 Pro Max May Get A Major Battery Life Boost: Reports
