Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro may begin later than usual this year, reportedly starting on September 12 instead of September 11.
Apple is set to reveal its new product lineup at its annual event on Wednesday, September 9. Expected announcements include the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple’s first-ever foldable iPhone, alongside the Apple Watch Series 12. However, potential buyers of these new devices will have to wait longer than usual for pre-orders.
According to a source cited by Macwelt, pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and related devices will now commence on Saturday, September 12, rather than the customary day after the product launch. This change is due to September 11 falling on the Friday following the event, a day of remembrance for the terrorist attacks in the United States.
In addition to the shift in date, the starting time for pre-orders is also adjusting. While Apple typically opens pre-orders at 5 a.m. Pacific Time, this year the start time will be moved to midnight Pacific Time on September 12.
Historically, Apple has occasionally shifted pre-order schedules. For instance, back in 2015, the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus were also available for pre-order starting on a Saturday for similar reasons related to September 11.
The same report indicates that the adjusted pre-order schedule will apply to the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, and possibly additional product announcements. However, it is notable that pre-orders for the foldable iPhone models may not start until late September, which echoes a similar situation experienced during the launch of the iPhone 12 series in 2020 due to pandemic-related delays.
Eugen Wegmann, writing for Macwelt, has highlighted that despite his initial scepticism, he approaches Apple’s forthcoming releases with curiosity. He has been covering technology since 2022 and remains a keen observer of the latest advancements in the sector.
As anticipation builds for the keynote at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, it is likely that additional details regarding pricing and specifications will be unveiled, further informing customers eager to purchase the latest innovations from Apple. Among the products expected for introduction, detailed specifications for the iPhone 18 Pro and potential pricing changes for the iPhone 17 will be of significant interest to consumers.
The updated schedule signifies Apple’s sensitivity to national tragedies and its consideration of customer sentiment during significant anniversaries. As more information emerges concerning the new product features and their availability, consumers will be eager to learn how these developments will influence their purchasing decisions.
