Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable iPhone at its September 9 “Surprise and Shine” event. With the launch only hours away, the latest reports give us a clearer picture of when buyers should be able to preorder each model.
The Apple September 9 event begins at 10 a.m. Pacific Time, or 10:30 p.m. IST. Apple has yet to confirm the preorder dates, so the schedule below remains based on the latest reporting ahead of the keynote.
iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo preorder dates
| Model | Expected preorder date | Expected release |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 18 Pro | Saturday, September 12 | Friday, September 18 |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | Saturday, September 12 | Friday, September 18 |
| iPhone Duo | Not yet confirmed | As early as October 2026 |
The strongest reports currently point to iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max preorders opening on Saturday, September 12. Apple normally starts iPhone preorders on the Friday following its launch event, but that would fall on September 11 this year.
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Apple previously made a similar adjustment in 2015, when iPhone 6s preorders opened on Saturday, September 12 after a September 9 event. That makes this year’s unusual Saturday preorder date more plausible.
We previously covered the expected iPhone 18 Pro preorder schedule, including the September 18 retail release date that currently appears most likely.
iPhone Duo could arrive later
The iPhone Duo appears to have a different launch schedule. Recent reports say Apple’s first foldable iPhone could go on sale as early as October, meaning its preorder window may open several weeks after the iPhone 18 Pro models.
Apple is expected to use a book-style folding design with an inner display of roughly 7.8 inches and a smaller external screen. Rumors also point to an A20-series chip, Apple’s C2 modem, Touch ID built into the power button, and two rear cameras.
The company is expected to focus its September lineup on premium models, while the standard iPhone 18 is reportedly moving to a 2027 release. You can read our full iPhone 18 Pro release date and feature roundup for the wider launch timeline.
Expected launch schedule
- September 9: Apple announces the new iPhones
- September 12: iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max preorders expected to begin
- September 18: iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max expected in stores
- October or later: Possible iPhone Duo availability
Apple should confirm the final preorder and release dates during its September 9 event, particularly whether the iPhone Duo will ship alongside the Pro models or follow several weeks later.
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