Apple is reportedly making cost-cutting adjustments to the upcoming standard iPhone 18. According to a post by the leaker "Fixed Focus Digital" on Weibo, the device will undergo certain manufacturing downgrades to align more closely with the lower-cost iPhone 18e model. This shift is part of a broader strategy aimed at controlling expenses for the new release.
The adjustments may include changes to manufacturing processes, chips, and memory components. The exact differences between the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, particularly the key features that will remain unique to each model, have not yet been specified. In comparison, the previous generation, the iPhone 17e and iPhone 17, highlighted differences in aspects such as the Dynamic Island, display size, and camera capabilities.
Expected to launch later than the Pro variants, the standard iPhone 18 will be part of a split launch strategy. The anticipated fall announcement will feature the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a foldable iPhone Ultra, while the iPhone 18e and other models are likely to follow in the spring of 2027.