iPhone 18 Delayed to 2027 Amidst Global Component Shortage

Apple's plans for the iPhone 18 have been delayed, with a likely launch date of 2027 instead of this year. The reason behind the delay is not entirely in Apple's control, as a semiconductor bottleneck and structural shortage of components are causing production issues.

Pegatron, one of Apple's vendors, has confirmed that it is shifting focus to other projects due to these supply chain problems. This means that the iPhone 18 will not be launched separately in September and early next year for marketing reasons as previously thought.

The shortage affects not only Apple but also the global smartphone market, with Pegatron predicting a shortfall of 130 million smartphones this cycle. The Taiwanese manufacturer is preparing to produce AI servers instead of consumer devices, which could exacerbate the shortage.